RIYADH(The COW News Digital) Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah Season cultural festival has reported a remarkable increase in attendance, welcoming over 1.3 million visitors from both inside and outside the Kingdom, according to festival director Ahlam Al-Thunayan. International tourist arrivals alone rose by more than 20 percent compared to the previous season.
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The festival, set against the historic backdrop of Diriyah, offers a diverse range of cultural, artistic, and social experiences, attracting a growing number of global travelers. The event has also contributed significantly to the local economy, generating a 141 percent increase in revenue and creating 2,448 direct and indirect jobs.
Al-Thunayan emphasized that the festival reflects a clear vision to transform Diriyah into a vibrant historical and cultural destination. “The season is designed to showcase Diriyah not only as a site of historical significance but as a contemporary cultural hub where visitors can engage with both heritage and modern experiences,” she said.
The festival’s programs are thoughtfully distributed across various neighborhoods of Diriyah, each reflecting its unique historical character. Visitors are offered a comprehensive cultural journey, with activities ranging from traditional arts and crafts to modern entertainment, family-oriented events, and immersive social experiences.
In the Al-Tuwaiq district, the Souq Al-Mawsim revived the traditional market experience with a contemporary twist, attracting large crowds from within Saudi Arabia and abroad. The market has played a key role in promoting cultural exchange and social interaction among visitors.
Meanwhile, the Al-Muraih neighborhood, historically an agricultural and cultural hub during the First Saudi State, hosted the popular Layali Diriyah (Diriyah Nights) program. Its popularity is reflected in the sale of over 100,000 tickets and more than 40,000 restaurant reservations during the current season.
Al-Thunayan highlighted that the festival’s diversity ensures a personalized experience for every visitor. By combining cultural, artistic, natural, and social programs, Diriyah Season enables participants to connect deeply with the Kingdom’s heritage while enjoying contemporary attractions.
The ongoing success of Diriyah Season underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a global cultural destination, blending historical preservation with modern entertainment to offer visitors an enriching and memorable experience.
