The Governorate of AlUla commemorated the International Day of Intangible Cultural Heritage, observed annually on October 17. This global occasion, established by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), celebrates living heritage, traditions, practices, and expressions that shape the identity of communities and reinforce their cultural authenticity.
The celebration highlights AlUla’s dedication to preserving its ancient heritage and living traditions, while empowering the local community to pass down its knowledge and stories to future generations. This effort reinforces the sustainability of culture as a vital pillar of national development and a key enabler of Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Press Agency said on Saturday.
AlUla is renowned for its rich and diverse cultural heritage, especially in the realm of performing arts. This includes traditional expressions such as Al-Ardah, Al-Zir, and Al-Dahha, along with poetry, storytelling, and other forms of folk art. AlUla’s heritage also encompasses deeply rooted social customs, particularly those associated with marriage ceremonies, reflecting traditions that have been faithfully passed down through generations.
Coffee, traditional gathering spaces, and mud houses symbolize generosity and hospitality. Meanwhile, the art of mud construction and the crafts of pottery, engraving, and carving display the authentic creativity that has characterized AlUla over the centuries.
Al-Sadu also stands out as a traditional handicraft based on weaving threads into intricate geometric patterns that reflect the identity and aesthetics of the desert (Badia) life.
Additionally, traditional foods have become an integral part of the local identity, alongside the ancient irrigation methods associated with agriculture and the oases.
Palm trees hold a special place in the lives of the people of AlUla, along with the associated activities like date harvesting and the traditional manufacturing of their products. Palms serve as a deeply rooted symbol connecting the history and livelihood of the Saudi people, providing food, professions, and ways of life. Additionally, camel chanting stands out as an authentic part of AlUla’s culture, which is renowned for camel breeding and care.
AlUla also features a notable presence of Arabic calligraphy arts, with its diverse forms, embellishments, and inscriptions that reflect the aesthetics of expression and the deeply rooted cultural identity.
As part of its future activities, AlUla is preparing to launch the Ancient Kingdoms Festival from November 20 to December 6. It will be followed by the renowned Winter at Tantora Festival, which starts December 18 and runs until January 10, 2026. AlUla is thus continuing to strengthen its cultural and tourism presence both locally and internationally.
