The historic Al-Bujairi district in Diriyah came alive as it hosted the latest edition of the Diriyah Storytelling Festival, bringing together storytellers, artists, and creatives from across the Kingdom to celebrate the rich tradition of oral narrative and its deep cultural significance.
The festival drew large crowds of families and visitors of all ages, offering a diverse range of storytelling experiences — from traditional folk tales and poetic narratives to contemporary stories and theatrical performances inspired by dialogue and character-driven plots. The event was designed to revive the heritage of storytelling, a practice that has played an essential role in preserving collective memory and passing down values through generations.
Al-Bujairi was chosen for the festival due to its cultural and historical prominence, serving as one of Diriyah’s most vibrant cultural centers and providing a scenic gateway overlooking the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif. The district offered an ideal setting for a festival dedicated to the art of narrative and cultural identity.
The program featured interactive storytelling circles, children’s workshops on writing and narrative creation, and dedicated spaces for emerging talents to showcase their skills. Visitors also had the opportunity to explore different storytelling techniques and learn how narrative traditions contribute to cultural preservation.
The Diriyah Storytelling Festival aligns with broader efforts to enhance cultural activity in the region and further establish Diriyah as a global destination for arts, heritage, and creative expression—supporting Vision 2030’s ambitions to strengthen culture as a pillar of national development.
