Keep an eye out for exciting events across Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates when planning your next trip. The region's vibrant art, fashion and culture scenes offer a wealth of experiences, whether you’re looking for a fun activity or an opportunity to shop. Here’s MOJEH’s guide for what to plan before you board that short-haul flight.
Downtown Design Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Launching in Riyadh on the 20th of this month, Downtown Design Riyadh marks a milestone for the region’s design community, offering yet another avenue for homegrown brands to showcase original and contemporary collections. For those in the process of renovating a home or office space, this is a great opportunity to learn about the latest trends in the space. The fair will have a dedicated section where visitors can take a look at collectible works and limited-edition designs — a curation from a range of galleries from across the globe. “Saudi Arabia’s design sector is witnessing significant and accelerated growth and we are committed to supporting this progress by showcasing local creative excellence and attracting leading international design exhibitions” explains Dr. Sumayah Al-Solaiman, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission. Make a pitstop at the fair if you’re in JAX District, Riyadh between 20 and 23 May. Book Now
3rd Edition Of Tasweer Photo Festival, Qatar
The Third Edition of the Tasweer Photo Festival in Qatar will run until 20 June, giving one ample time to check out the festival when visiting the city of Doha. MOJEH recommends the lead exhibition, As I Lay Between Two Seas, curated by Meriem Berrada, which explores the concept of belonging, identity and home through the works of 25 artists in the Arab world and its diaspora. The exhibition, taking place at Fire Station (Garage Gallery), Doha, features artists including Afraa Ahmed, Louisa Babari and Nada Harib among several others. As I Lay Between Two Seas is thought-provoking and emotive, making it one of the best exhibitions of the festival. If you happen to have multiple visits scheduled for the month, we also recommend checking out Threads of Lights, a compilation of 31 images from previous Tasweer awards, each taking visitors on a journey across the Arab world with artists from Egypt, Algeria, Oman and Morocco. The Tasweer Photo Festival is taking place across venues in Doha, Qatar until 20 June. Book Now
Bvlgari Opens At Solitaire Mall, Saudi Arabia
Another addition to Solitaire Mall’s impressive roster of designer showrooms is Italian luxury House Bvlgari. The new boutique, among the brand’s largest in the region, is inspired by the Roman roots of Bvlgari – think Travertino Navona stone portals and a Serpenti chandelier. With Solitaire Mall’s positioning as more than just a shopping mall, Bvlgari's new opening contributes to its development as an urban retail space catering to the luxury fashion and jewellery enthusiasts in Riyadh and across the GCC.
Elysian Awakening Of Powerful Spring, United Arab Emirates
Despite the art world historically being ruled by men, there is a whole army of pioneering female artists who deserve their time in the spotlight. That’s why we’re so excited about the latest exhibition at all-new Dubai-based art gallery Rarares, Elysian Awakening of Powerful Spring, which is bringing together an inspiring ensemble of women whose works challenge conventional narratives. “The decision to feature only female artists for this exhibition stems from a deep desire to celebrate and amplify the voices of women within the art world,” says Marina Baisel, founder of Rarares, and curator of the exhibition. The exhibition features artists including Fatma Lootah and Zeina Abdullah among several others. On show until 31 August at Rarares Gallery, Dubai, UAE
