Earlier this month, a group of our Club Members journeyed to Saudi Arabia to experience the Kingdom’s rapidly evolving cultural landscape firsthand. From the cutting-edge digital focus of Diriyah Art Futures to the dynamic creative energy of the JAX District, the itinerary spotlighted the spaces shaping the country’s contemporary art scene today. Keep reading for our curated 'art lovers' list of must-sees stops across Saudi Arabia, along with firsthand reflections from members who joined our first Cultivist Art Trips of 2026.

Photo Credits: © Hassan Al Shatti, Courtesy of Achiattarella Association

Diriyah Art Futures 

Near Riyadh, Diriyah Art Futures is an innovative arts institute celebrated not only for its striking sculptural architecture but also for its focus on digital art and emerging technologies. This space blends traditional Najdi influences with forward-looking artistic exploration, making it a destination for contemporary art lovers and tech-savvy creatives alike.

Photo Credits: Shalal Cafe

Shalal Cafe

For a coffee and lunch in AlUla, Shalal Cafe is an absolute must-visit. Nestled among towering, breathtaking rock formations, the café feels like a true hidden gem. To reach it, you’ll need to weave your way through narrow passageways carved between the mountains, part of the adventure that makes the experience so special.

Photo Credits: Misbaah Mansuri, Commercial Interior Design

Maraya - AlUla

“Maraya” means “Mirror” in Arabia. A fitting name for the world’s largest mirrored building. Its fascinating structure reflects the captivating landscapes of the ancient oasis city of AlUla, and is just 20 minutes away from Hegra, making this the perfect stop in your itinerary for something new and something old.

Photo Credits: Study Drawing from When the Dust of Conflict Settles: Camp of Diocletian, Palmyra, Syria (2025) © Dana Awartani, Image courtesy of the artist. Photography by Ashraf Jamali.

Dana Awartani at Arduna (Until April 15th)

Part two of the AlUla Arts Festival is underway, and this you won’t want to miss. Arduna (“Our Land” in Arabic), curated by Candida Pestana, Anna Hiddleston, Ftoon AlThaedi, and Noémie Fillon is a contemporary art exhibition part of the preparatory program for the forthcoming Contemporary Art Museum in AlUla. Our big highlight of this exhibition is Dana Awartani. Featured previously as one of the artists challenging the status quo in Saudi Arabia, Awartani has recently been named as the Representative Artist for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the 61st International Arts Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia. (May 9 - Nov 22, 2026). Attending Arduna is the perfect opportunity to see this Artist’s work in the land that has inspired so much of it.

Photo Credits: “Unmirror” Ahaad Al Amoudi Installation View. Image Courtesy of ATHR Gallery

ATHR Gallery

A trailblazer since its founding in 2009, ATHR Gallery plays a central role in developing Saudi Arabia’s contemporary art scene. With flagship spaces in Jeddah and outposts in AlUla and Riyadh, ATHR presents experimental and boundary-pushing exhibitions by both established and emerging artists, fostering creative dialogue across the Arab world and internationally.

Photo Credits: Arab News

JAX District

JAX District itself is a grand project, transforming the bones of an industrial heritage site in Diriyah into a booming creative ecosystem featuring Museums, Galleries, and the studios of Saudi Arabia’s most important contemporary voices. Exploring the streets of JAX District can be just as exciting and enthralling as the museums they are home to. Below are a couple of our favorite stops.

Photo Credits: Lucas Barceló

Lucas Barceló's Studio

While exploring the JAX District, make a stop at Lucas Barceló’s studio to discover collectible ceramics and furniture that fuse Mediterranean influences with contemporary design. Working from his space in Diriyah’s creative hub, Barceló crafts handcrafted pieces that thoughtfully balance regional heritage with a refined, modern sensibility.

Photo Credits: Exterior view of SAMoCA, Image courtesy of the JAX District

SAMoCA

As the Kingdom’s first dedicated contemporary art museum, SAMoCA showcases a diverse array of local and international works within the JAX District. It offers exhibitions, installations, and thought-provoking programs that explore identity, innovation, and artistic exchange in Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing cultural hub.