Are There Creative Districts in Saudi Arabia?

Yes, there are creative districts in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, including JAX District in Diriyah, Riyadh Province; Al-Muftaha Village in Abha City, Aseer Province; and Hayy Jameel in Jeddah, Makkah Al-Mukarramah Province. These districts are also known as creative hubs and are designated spaces for art, artists, and hosting international art exhibitions. Their presence has significantly contributed to the development of infrastructure in the cultural sectors.

The concept of creative hubs in Saudi Arabia began with the transformation of Al-Muftaha Village in Abha into a cultural and artistic destination. The site includes a theater, an exhibition hall, a photography studio, six shops, and fifteen studios for artistic residencies.

As for JAX District in Diriyah, it features an 83,000 m² space dedicated to art enthusiasts and creatives from around the world. The site includes a cinema hall, eighty-seven creative production units, a fashion show platform, twelve exhibition halls, ten multipurpose halls, a performance venue, and seven shops.

In Jeddah, art enthusiasts and amateurs gather at Hayy Jameel, which features an exhibition hall, an event hall, a live performance courtyard, and studios for artists and workshops.