Saudi Ministry of Culture Organizes Ramadan Cultural Events Across Kingdom Under "Our Nights Have Returned" Theme

Over 200 cultural activities across 13 Saudi cities mark Ramadan 1446 AH with heritage nights, arts exhibitions, and community gatherings

The Saudi Ministry of Culture has launched the "Ramadan Season 1446 AH" under the slogan "Aadat Layalina" (Our Nights Have Returned), organizing diverse cultural and community events across multiple cities. The initiative celebrates Saudi Arabia's rich heritage while fostering community engagement during the holy month.

The program features over 200 activities including traditional heritage nights, art exhibitions, theatrical performances, and workshops. Events are held in Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, Madinah, Dammam, Al-Ahsa, Taif, Abha, and other major urban centers across the Kingdom.

A Cultural Revival During the Holy Month

The slogan "Aadat Layalina" evokes nostalgia and cultural revival that resonates deeply during Ramadan — a month marked by evening gatherings, family connections, and community spirit. Most activities are scheduled after Iftar to accommodate the Ramadan lifestyle.

Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan Al Saud, Minister of Culture, emphasized that the initiative aligns with Vision 2030 cultural objectives. "Ramadan has always been a time of cultural richness in Saudi society," he stated. "This season, we are creating spaces where Saudis and residents can reconnect with their heritage while experiencing contemporary artistic expressions."

Key Events and Highlights

In Riyadh, the historic Diriyah district hosts nightly performances featuring traditional Saudi music, poetry recitals, and folk dances. Jeddah's UNESCO-listed Al-Balad district serves as another major venue, with heritage buildings providing a backdrop for art installations and open-air exhibitions. Makkah and Madinah focus on spiritual and educational activities, including calligraphy workshops and Quranic arts exhibitions.

  • Diriyah Heritage Nights (Riyadh) — Traditional music, dance, and storytelling
  • Al-Balad Art Walk (Jeddah) — Open-air galleries and live painting demonstrations
  • Makkah Islamic Arts Exhibition — Calligraphy and manuscript displays
  • Al-Ahsa Family Festival — Handicrafts and children's workshops
  • Taif Cultural Evenings — Poetry competitions and theater performances

Community Engagement and Accessibility

The Ministry has designed the events to be inclusive and accessible, with free entry to most activities and dedicated spaces for families, children, and people with disabilities. The program also features live streaming of select events through digital platforms. This initiative builds on the Ministry's broader cultural strategy, which since its establishment in 2018 has overseen 11 cultural sectors including heritage, visual arts, performing arts, and literature.

Economic and Tourism Impact

The events are expected to draw domestic tourists and international visitors, particularly to heritage sites in Diriyah and Al-Balad. Local businesses including restaurants, cafes, and handicraft vendors are anticipated to benefit significantly from increased foot traffic. The Ministry has partnered with the Saudi Tourism Authority to promote the events through targeted campaigns. Saudi Arabia has recorded a 68% increase in domestic tourism spending over three years, with cultural events playing a growing role.

Relevance to Regional Audiences

For Libyan readers, Saudi Arabia's Ramadan cultural programming parallels Libya's own rich Ramadan traditions — evening social gatherings, traditional foods, and community iftars. The cultural exchange between North African and Gulf traditions during the holy month represents a shared heritage across the Arab world. Saudi Arabia's institutionalized approach to Ramadan cultural programming offers a model for preserving heritage while adapting to contemporary audience expectations.

The "Aadat Layalina" season runs throughout Ramadan 1446 AH, with the full calendar available on the Ministry of Culture's official website. Visitors are encouraged to check local venue schedules as some events require advance registration.

— Libya Press / Entertainment Desk