Islamic Arts Biennale
Islamic Arts Biennale takes place Nov 1, 2027 - Mar 1, 2028 (third edition) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The dress code is Modest dress required: loose clothing covering shoulders and knees; light fabrics. Typical cost ranges from 200 to 700 EUR per person.
The first recurring biennial dedicated to Islamic arts, staging centuries of sacred objects - including loans from major world museums - alongside contemporary commissions under the soaring canopies of Jeddah's Western Hajj Terminal. The third edition runs November 1, 2027 to March 1, 2028, expanding an event that has quickly become a serious global fixture.
- When
- Nov 1, 2027 - Mar 1, 2028 (third edition)
- Where
- Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Dress code
- Modest dress required: loose clothing covering shoulders and knees; light fabrics
- Cost
- Typical cost ranges from 200 to 700 EUR per person.
- Weather
- 26 - 30C, warm and humid by the Red Sea, minimal rain
- When to book
- Reserve free timed tickets online once released; Saudi tourist e-visa is quick but sort it before booking flights
- Getting there
- JED (Jeddah), the Western Hajj Terminal venue sits beside the airport
- Where to stay
- Assila, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Rosewood Jeddah
- Official site
- https://biennale.org.sa
How to attend
Entry is free with timed tickets reserved through the Diriyah Biennale Foundation's website closer to opening. Saudi tourist e-visas are available to many nationalities. The venue adjoins King Abdulaziz International Airport - taxis are easy - and the show merits at least half a day.
Entry is free but the timed booking page for the third edition has not been published - the Diriyah Biennale Foundation opens reservations nearer the late-2027 start.
Insider tip
Come in the late afternoon and stay past sunset - the vast tented canopy and outdoor commissions transform in the golden hour and cooler evening air.
Get inside Islamic Arts Biennale
Booking matters here: reserve free timed tickets online once released; Saudi tourist e-visa is quick but sort it before booking flights. Members track that window, what it really costs, and 573 more events across the season.
Free while in beta. One email when your invitation is ready, nothing else.