Saudi Arabia’s flagship contemporary art biennial returns to JAX District, Diriyah (Riyadh) from January 30 to April 23, 2026, consolidating Riyadh’s growing role in the global cultural calendar. Expect large-scale exhibitions, new commissions, and an international program that weaves contemporary practice with the region’s rapidly evolving art ecosystem.

Dates, venue, team: the essentials

• Public dates: January 30 – April 23, 2026

• Where: JAX District, a 15-hectare creative quarter in historic Diriyah, with industrial spaces adapted for studios, exhibitions, and public programs

• Artistic Directors: Nora Razian and Sabih Ahmed

• Curatorial team: Maan Abu Taleb, May Makki, Kabelo Malatsie, Lantian Xie

• Associate Architect & Exhibition Designer: Sammy Zarka

Previous editions, including “Feeling the Stones” and “After Rain,” established a strong audience base and critical visibility, setting the stage for a larger 2026 footprint.

What to expect in 2026

• A city-scale exhibition experience: Multiple warehouses and public spaces across JAX will host curated chapters, large installations, performance, and moving image.

• Curatorial direction: Emphasis on world-making, resilience, knowledge exchange, and research-driven practices that invite participation and dialogue.

• International and regional mix: New commissions alongside significant works from Saudi and international artists, designed to spark cross-regional exchange.

For artists and galleries: how to use the Biennale strategically

Although the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale is curated and not a booth-based fair, it is a powerful platform to advance your goals.

1. Map the ecosystem: Identify curators, institutions, and patrons active across the GCC.

2. Network with intent: Schedule meetings before you arrive. Use talks, walkthroughs, and program days to build relationships.

3. Leverage visibility: If you have GCC representation or partners, time off-site previews, studio visits, or pop-ups to coincide with peak visitor flows.

4. Arrive ready: Bring a tight digital portfolio, a clear one-page bio and statement, updated website and socials, press images, and contact details.

Tickets, hours, and practical planning

• Tickets: The Biennale offers timed entry options via an official booking flow. Pricing and time-slots are published closer to opening.

• Opening hours: Full details appear on the Plan Your Visit page before the launch: https://biennale.org.sa/en

• Where to stay: Diriyah and central Riyadh provide a wide hotel range. Staying near Msheireb or the Diplomatic Quarter balances access and dining.

• Visitor guidelines: Standard museum protocols apply. Opt for modest dress and family-friendly conduct in line with local norms.

Key names and institutions

• Diriyah Biennale Foundation (DBF): Organizes the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale in Riyadh and the Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah

• JAX District: Repurposed industrial zone serving as Riyadh’s creative quarter, home to studios, cultural partners, and major events

Timeline and milestones for the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026

• August 2025: Artistic Directors and expanded curatorial team confirmed, public dates announced

• Autumn 2025 – January 2026: Rolling announcements of participating artists, installations, and public programs

• January 30, 2026: Public opening in JAX District

FAQ

When is the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026?
January 30 to April 23, 2026.

Where does the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026 take place?
JAX District in Diriyah, Riyadh, across multiple exhibition venues.

Who leads the curatorial direction of the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026?
Artistic Directors Nora Razian and Sabih Ahmed with curators Maan Abu Taleb, May Makki, Kabelo Malatsie, and Lantian Xie, and Associate Architect and Exhibition Designer Sammy Zarka.

Is there a theme at the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026?
A formal tagline is not announced at time of writing. Curatorial texts foreground world-making, resilience, and knowledge exchange.

Is the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026 an art fair?
No. It is a curated biennial, not a pay-to-show commercial fair, though it attracts international curators, institutions, and collectors.

With confirmed dates, a sharpened curatorial framework, and an expanded footprint in JAX District, the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026 is a must-attend waypoint on the MENASA art map. Treat your visit as a research and relationship-building mission. Learn the landscape, meet decision-makers, and align future projects with one of the region’s most ambitious cultural platforms.