A festival between two cultures in Riyadh: Saudi and Chinese civilizations meet

In a move reflecting the depth of historical and cultural ties, the Saudi capital, Riyadh, is currently hosting the “Between Two Cultures” festival , offering an exceptional experience that blends the authenticity of Saudi heritage with the richness of Chinese civilization. This major cultural event, taking place at the Al-Malfa Hall in the non-profit Mohammed bin Salman City (Misk City), serves as a modern bridge reviving the glories of the ancient Silk Road, but through the language of contemporary art and creativity.

Reviving the Silk Road: A Historical and Cultural Context

This festival cannot be viewed in isolation from the rich historical context that unites Arabs and China, where trade caravans once transported goods and ideas along the Silk Road. Today, the “Between Two Cultures” festival re-embodies this historical exchange, coinciding with preparations for 2025, designated as the “Saudi-Chinese Year of Culture.” This convergence underscores that the relationship between the two countries has transcended economic and political frameworks to reach the core of human interaction, thus reinforcing the concept of “soft power” in international relations.

Festival sections: An artistic journey through time

The festival, which runs until January 6, 2026, is distinguished by its unique design that takes the visitor on a gradual journey through three main sections, simulating the development of the relationship between man and his environment:

• The desert and the sea of ​​memory: This section focuses on the geography that influenced both cultures. Just as the desert shaped the Saudi artist's consciousness, the sea and mountains influenced the Chinese memory, and the section explores how these harsh natural elements were transformed into poetic artistic vocabulary.
• A tapestry of light and earth: Here, exceptional craftsmanship shines through, as artists explore the relationship between material (clay and fabric) and spirit (light). This section reflects the striking similarities in traditional crafts between the two countries and how natural resources are used to create art that endures through time.
• Future Implications: This section represents the culmination of this convergence, employing modern technologies and contemporary perspectives to reinterpret heritage. It is an attempt to answer the question: What will our heritage look like in the future?

Strategic importance and expected impact

The festival gains particular significance within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030, which places great importance on the cultural sector as an economic and social driver. By hosting China, the Saudi Ministry of Culture reaffirms its commitment to building bridges of cultural exchange and fostering mutual understanding. This openness not only serves cultural exchange but also contributes to boosting cultural tourism, attracting visitors from around the world, and solidifying Riyadh's position as a global center for dialogue and the arts.

The festival targets broad segments of society, from families and tourists to specialists and official delegations, offering them a rich cultural experience that affirms that culture is the only universal language capable of transcending geographical and linguistic boundaries, to draw the features of a shared future that combines the wisdom of the East and the heritage of the Arabs.