CRAFTING HERITAGE: A CELEBRATION OF SAUDI ARTISTRY AT FAIRMONT HOTEL RIYADH

Fairmont Hotel Riyadh has partnered with the Crafts Association to showcase the richness of Saudi craftsmanship through an exclusive exhibition that celebrates the Kingdom’s artistic heritage. The collaboration supports the Saudi Ministry of Culture’s “Year of the Handcraft” initiative, a nationwide effort dedicated to celebrating and preserving traditional Saudi craftsmanship. The Crafts Association plays a vital role in this mission, empowering artisans across the Kingdom through training programmes, cultural exchanges, and access to essential resources, ensuring that Saudi craft traditions continue to thrive and evolve.

On display at the Library in Fairmont Hotel Riyadh until the end of 2025, the exhibition invites guests and visitors to discover the depth and beauty of Saudi Arabia’s rich handcraft traditions. Featuring the work of exceptional local talents including Wafa Al-Qunaibit, Najla Abdulrahman Al-Muqoushi, Horiah Al-Oqaili, Abdulaziz Al-Aldul Latif, Mohammed Al-Janbi, Bushra Khattat, Arwa Nasser, Saleem Al-Balawi, Nahlah Al-Harbi, Ahmed Al-Nakhlani, and Hala Al-Ghamdi, alongside art pieces from Art of Heritage, a pioneering organization dedicated to preserving and reimagining traditional Saudi crafts through a contemporary lens.

The curated selection of 25 exceptional pieces provides an immersive experience into the diverse world of Saudi handcrafts, including bold sculptures, hand-thrown pottery, intricately painted ceramic plates, and the geometric beauty of Sadu weaving, amongst others. With works crafted from natural stone, carved wood, and locally sourced materials, the collection blends historical techniques with contemporary interpretations, adding both authenticity and cultural significance.

The partnership was officially launched with an immersive cultural evening held on May 26th, 2025, in the hotel’s refined Library. This exclusive event gathered a select group of dignitaries, artisans, and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate the unveiling of the exhibition. Guests had the rare opportunity to engage directly with the featured artisans, who shared the personal stories and inspirations behind their handcrafted works.

“This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to showcasing Saudi heritage in a way that is both authentic and engaging,” said Stéphanie Timsit, Director of Operations at Fairmont Hotel Riyadh. “We believe modern hospitality has the power to preserve tradition, elevate local artisans, and create meaningful connections with our community.”