“Discover how Noor Riyadh 2024, the world’s largest light art festival, dazzled 3 million spectators with ground breaking installations, global artistry, and community engagement in Saudi Arabia’s capital.”
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, once again stood as a beacon of artistic innovation as Noor Riyadh, the world’s largest light art festival, concluded its ground breaking 2024 edition. Drawing an unprecedented 3 million spectators, the festival showcased the transformative power of art across three iconic venues: King Abdulaziz Historical Center, Wadi Hanifah, and JAX District.
Under the theme “Light Years Apart,” the festival celebrated the intersection of light, humanity, and culture. Featuring more than 60 artworks from 18 countries, Noor Riyadh illuminated the Saudi capital with a fusion of creativity and technological marvels.
At the heart of the festival were breathtaking installations like Chris Levine’s “Higher Power,” a city-scale laser projection that transformed Al Faisaliah Tower into a radiant icon of light. Another highlight was Maryam Tariq’s “Shifting Perspectives,” an exploration of perceptual ambiguity at Digital City, which captivated audiences with its thought-provoking interplay of light and shadow.
Adding to the celestial theme was “Aether” by United Visual Artists, a dazzling drone show at the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, and Rashed AlShashai’s “The Fifth Pyramid,” a symbolic representation of Riyadh’s ongoing cultural transformation.
“This year’s festival united local and international artists for a truly world-class experience,” said Noor Riyadh Festival Director Nouf Almoneef. He extended gratitude to the dedicated team of volunteers, staff, and partners who brought this ambitious vision to life.
Noor Riyadh 2024 wasn’t just a visual spectacle; it also sought to engage and inspire the community. Over 52,000 participants took part in interactive workshops, guided tours, engaging talks, and creative family-friendly activities. These initiatives aimed to deepen the connection between visitors and the festival’s artistic narrative, fostering a sense of collective celebration.
Khalid Al-Hazani, Executive Director of Riyadh Art, emphasized the festival’s mission: “Noor Riyadh 2024 celebrated humanity’s connection to the stars, sparking inspiration and dialogue through the universal language of art. This is only the beginning of Riyadh’s cultural evolution.”
The festival’s seamless execution was credited to a dedicated team of curators, artists, and installation crews who ensured every aspect was meticulously crafted for an unforgettable experience. The Noor Riyadh Festival continues to solidify Riyadh’s position as a global hub for art and culture, bridging the gap between local traditions and international artistry.
As the luminous glow of Noor Riyadh fades, its legacy endures, leaving spectators eagerly anticipating the city’s next cultural milestone.