Tariq Abdulhakim Museum
Tariq Abdulhakim Museum is a music museum announced by the Ministry of Culture on August 17, 2020, to be established in the historic district of Al-Balad District in Jeddah City, Makkah Al-Mukarramah Province. It honors artist Tariq Abdulhakim, featuring contents that highlight his contributions throughout his artistic career and his role in enriching Saudi music.
Tariq Abdulhakim is considered one of the pioneers of Saudi music, and the museum was established in recognition of his efforts in serving his country in the fields of music and culture. Located in his former residence, the museum is dedicated to preserving his legacy and the musical history of Saudi Arabia in general.
Inauguration of Tariq Abdulhakim Museum
On December 28, 2023, the Museums Commission inaugurated the Tariq Abdulhakim Center in Jeddah Historic District under the theme “A Melody Between Heritage and the Future.” The center includes the museum, which showcases Saudi Arabia’s musical heritage and the key milestones in the career of Tariq Abdulhakim.
Objectives of Tariq Abdulhakim Museum
Through the establishment of the Tariq Abdulhakim Museum, the Ministry of Culture aims to create a platform for future generations interested in Saudi music, one that offers musical knowledge and serves as a reliable resource for research and creative projects. The ministry’s choice to honor Tariq Abdulhakim highlights his artistic contributions and emphasizes his role in the development of Saudi music.
Contents of Tariq Abdulhakim Museum
The museum features a collection of Tariq Abdulhakim’s archives and personal belongings, including reels of his recordings, musical instruments, photo albums, and musical pieces by legendary Arab singers such as Umm Kulthum and Mohammed Abdulwahab. It also includes audio and video documents capturing his performances of his compositions in collaboration with other artists, as well as his national works.
The museum is divided into two main sections: the first showcases the life story of the late artist, while the second serves as a music research center containing articles and writings on Saudi music, along with studies on music in the Arab world. This section supports researchers and enthusiasts by enriching their knowledge.
Artistic career of Tariq Abdulhakim
Tariq Abdulhakim was known throughout his artistic journey as the “Dean of Saudi Art.” He was a music researcher in addition to being a singer, composer, and historian who collected musical instruments and documents. He also had a strong interest in folk arts and led a musical ensemble.
He was deeply committed to preserving national folklore, authoring more than ten books and manuscripts on regional music, musicians, and instruments. He also wrote works covering cultural and heritage topics ranging from traditional food to myths, proverbs, and games. In addition, he composed more than five hundred musical works and wrote numerous traditional songs. He played a role in founding the Saudi Arabian Society for Culture and Arts in 1972.
In 1976, Tariq Abdulhakim was appointed head of the Folklore Department in Saudi Arabia and formed a national troupe to perform at major events. He received both local and international recognition. In 1981, he became the first Arab to receive the UNESCO International Music Prize and the sixth musician worldwide to earn this distinction. In 1983, he was elected President of the Arab Music Council under the League of Arab States and was re-elected in 1987 to represent Saudi Arabia.
Interactive rooms at Tariq Abdulhakim Museum
On March 7, 2024, Tariq Abdulhakim Center celebrated the inauguration of new interactive rooms at the museum with a special family-friendly interactive festival in Al-Balad, Jeddah Historic District. The two-day festival featured a variety of activities suitable for all family members.
During the festival, Tariq Abdulhakim Center unveiled the world’s first laser qanun, displayed in the museum’s new interactive room. This distinctive musical instrument replaces traditional strings with beams of light, and when the performer’s hands touch the beams, it produces innovative Arabic melodies. The event offered the public a unique musical experience and an opportunity to explore the museum’s interactive rooms.