Diriyah: The third edition of the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, titled "In Interludes and Transitions," came to a close on May 2, 2026. Organized by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, the Biennale brought together 68 artists from over 37 countries in JAX District, located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the event was led by Co-Artistic Directors Nora Razian and Sabih Ahmed, who conceived it as a choreography intertwining histories, ancestors, and migrations. The 2026 edition featured more than 25 new commissions across 12,900 square meters of exhibition halls, courtyards, and terraces, with scenography by design studio Formafantasma. The closing week included live music performances, a talk series with participating artists, JAX Open Studios, and various culinary and retail experiences.
The conclusion of "In Interludes and Transitions" also signals the beginning of a new chapter for JAX District. This edition was the first to extend the Biennale's footprint into newly opened spaces across the district. An expanded masterplan, supported by international architecture studio OMA, will see the district grow to 215 tenants across nearly 78,000 square meters, welcoming more studios, galleries, and creative institutions. Together, the Biennale and the district continue to deepen their role as an artist-centered ecosystem and a cornerstone of the cultural landscape of the Kingdom.
Highlights of the Biennale included a procession by Saudi artist Mohammed Alhamdan (7amdan) titled "Folding the Tents," and artworks such as "Very volcanic over this green feather" by Petrit Halilaj, and "House of Eternity" by Th©o Mercier. CEO of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation Aya Al-Bakree emphasized the importance of the human experience in making the edition successful, stating that the biennale welcomed artists, communities, and ideas from across the globe.
Co-Artistic Directors Nora Razian and Sabih Ahmed reflected on the edition, noting its message of continuity and solidarity. They highlighted the privilege of showcasing a constellation of voices through newly commissioned works, existing projects, and performances.
The Diriyah Biennale Foundation now looks forward to the third edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale, scheduled to run from November 1, 2027, through March 1, 2028, at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.