The “Valley of Art” project in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ula province, spanning a vast area of 65 square kilometers, represents a qualitative leap in the global cultural landscape. This ambitious project is not merely an art gallery, but a permanent cultural destination being developed to transform an open natural space into a contemporary artistic experience that harmonizes with the unique desert environment and establishes an ongoing dialogue between art, nature, and history.
General context and Vision 2030
The launch of “Art Valley” is a key pillar of the comprehensive development plans for AlUla Governorate, which fall under the umbrella of Saudi Vision 2030. The Vision aims to diversify the national economy and reduce dependence on oil by investing in promising sectors such as tourism, culture, and entertainment. Within this framework, AlUla is considered the crown jewel of the Kingdom’s cultural transformation strategy, with efforts underway to transform it into the world’s largest living museum, connecting its rich historical heritage with its promising creative future.
Historical and geographical importance
The choice of AlUla to host this project was not arbitrary. Throughout history, this region has been a crossroads of ancient civilizations, from the Dadanite and Lihyanite kingdoms to the Nabataeans, who built Hegra (Madain Saleh), the first Saudi site to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Placing contemporary artworks on this land, which has witnessed layers of human history, creates a unique dialogue between the past and the present, offering visitors an immersive experience that transcends the traditional concept of a museum visit.
A sustainable artistic concept and global impact
The “Valley of Art” project is based on a contemporary approach known as “Land Art,” where artworks are designed to integrate seamlessly with the site’s natural topography. This approach is grounded in the principles of sustainability, ensuring that artworks are created in a way that respects the environment and does not disrupt its geological formation, making art an organic part of the natural landscape. The project is expected to attract a selection of leading Saudi and international artists. Artists such as Manal Al-Dowayan and Ahmed Mater from Saudi Arabia, along with prominent international names like James Turrell, Agnes Dennis, and Michael Heiser, have already been commissioned to create permanent works, the first of which will be exhibited by 2026.
Expected impact of the project
Locally, Art Valley will create new job opportunities for the region's residents, stimulate economic activity, and enhance AlUla's position as a leading tourist and cultural destination. Regionally and internationally, it will place Saudi Arabia on the global contemporary art map, attracting a new segment of tourists and art and culture enthusiasts from around the world. The valley will become a permanent global art landmark, offering an unparalleled experience and strengthening the Kingdom's soft power and its role as a hub for creativity and innovation in the region.
