DHAHRAN: The Eastern Province building at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) will be the focus of attention as it marks Saudi Arabia’s 95th National Day with a program running from Sept. 22–27.
The Dhahran-based cultural hub will be transformed into a lively destination for arts, culture and entertainment, offering musical performances, interactive installations, workshops, film screenings and family-friendly activities.
Locals and visitors are invited to celebrate with both indoor and outdoor activities. Wearing green and white or a national garment from your Saudi region is encouraged, but not required.
Ithra’s six-day program aims to highlight Saudi Arabia’s cultural diversity through heritage, art, and music.
Visitors can explore the “Saudi Emblem Archive” and “From Bean to Cup” exhibitions celebrating national identity and coffee traditions.
Interactive experiences include the “Saudi Time Capsule,” which invites participants to record messages and images that will be preserved and sent back to them in 2030.
Musical showcases such as “Dialogues of Tunes” will feature the oud, a classic Arab lute, and the semsemiah, a Red Sea coastal lyre, while fireworks will light up Ithra’s gardens.
Families can enjoy the Children’s Museum and creative workshops such as “Craft a Lavender,” “Stamp of Glory,” “Art Speaks Saudi,” and “RoboCamel Adventure,” offering a festive, family-friendly celebration of Saudi heritage.
Films include “The Molokhia Conflict,” “Namousa,” “Qen,” “Mermaid Gifts,” “Epic of Identity: Hobal,” and “Chibi Maruko-Chan.”
Building on the success of National Day celebrations in recent years, Ithra Theater plans an immersive “Sing-Along” experience for its audience.
Entry to Ithra is free, but some events and activations require a purchased ticket, with Ithra Members receiving special discounts on select offerings. Tickets can be bought on the premises.
The center will be open from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. on these dates. Refer to Ithra.com for full details and schedule.
