RIYADH: The Diriyah Biennale Foundation announced the winner of the 2024 AlMusalla Prize, an architectural competition to create an innovative prayer space at King Abdulaziz International Airport’s Hajj Terminal in Jeddah, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The successful design team includes East Architecture Studio, which has offices in Lebanon and the UAE; British engineering firm AKT II; and Lebanese artist Rayyane Tabet, who splits his time between Beirut and San Francisco.
The team said they set out to design a communal prayer area that combines traditional Islamic architecture with modern sustainable practices, with the aim of creating a serene, inclusive space in which people can reflect on and engage with the rich artistic and spiritual traditions of Islam.
The design of the 6x6-meter space, inspired by palm tree farms in the Kingdom, will be constructed using materials derived from the trees, an abundant natural resource in Saudi Arabia, including wood and fronds. This choice reflects a revival in local crafts and architecture inspired by Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad neighborhood.
According to SPA, the space is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with an open courtyard in addition to designated areas for prayers. The interior of the musalla, or prayer space, will be adorned with layers of textiles colored with dyes that use natural pigments, with the aim of creating a connection between worshippers and their environment.
Prince Nawaf bin Nayef, who chaired the prize jury, said the winning project balances traditional Islamic architectural principles with an innovative, modern, eco-friendly design. The use of palm trees symbolizes the region’s cultural and environmental connections, he added, while the simplicity and versatility of the design means it can be easily assembled and disassembled, making it a model for sustainable architecture.
Aya Al-Bakri, the CEO of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, praised the successful team for creating a prayer space that embodies the values of openness and community and reflects the broader mission of the Islamic Arts Biennale to promote cultural exchanges.
The musalla will be installed as a central feature of the Islamic Arts Biennale, which begins on Jan. 25, 2025, and will remain there for four months before being moved to the airport.
Diriyah Biennale announces winner of the 2024 AlMusalla Prize
https://arab.news/njzda
Diriyah Biennale announces winner of the 2024 AlMusalla Prize
- The winning team includes Lebanon and UAE-based East Architecture Studio, British engineering firm AKT II, and Lebanese artist Rayyane Tabet
- Design combines Islamic architecture and heritage with modern sustainable practices and is inspired by palm tree farms in the Kingdom
Jeddah’s bakers take center stage at second market
- Celebrating the craft, creativity and community of the city’s growing bakery scene, the market brought together a handpicked selection of bakeries, pastry shops and independent bakers
JEDDAH: The vibrant world of artisanal baking took center stage this weekend at the Bakers Market, organized by Aysh Academy in collaboration with Art Jameel at Hayy Jameel.
Celebrating the craft, creativity and community of the city’s growing bakery scene, the market brought together a handpicked selection of bakeries, pastry shops and independent bakers.
Launched for the first time in Jeddah by Aysh Academy, the market features everything from artisan breads and viennoiseries to desserts, all crafted with passion, skill, and high-quality ingredients.
Visitors were able to explore, taste, and purchase freshly baked items while engaging with the bakers themselves in a lively, community-centered atmosphere.
Sumaia Showail, general manager of Aysh Academy, said: “The Bakers Market was buzzing as soon as the doors opened. Families and friends gathered in a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy moments of tranquility, discover hidden culinary gems, and support local bakers.
“This second edition, following our debut in December 2025, was equally successful. We have 10 editions planned throughout 2026, each capturing special themes and occasions, creating a community around monthly events that celebrate real food at affordable prices.”
Those taking part shared their experiences of the event.
Noier Aloraifi, founder of Tabaqat Cafe, who was there with her son Abdulaziz Binbaz, said: “The Bakers Market gave us great exposure for our business. We sold out within four to five hours and welcomed new customers to our shop, which has been operating for eight years on Amal Street in Jeddah. It’s not just about exposure, we enjoy connecting with other bakers and sharing our passion for cakes.”
Rotaila Fadul, owner and creative director of Rotaila’s Whisk, added: “The Bakers Market focuses on food and small businesses, unlike other bazaars that prioritize fashion. It’s an amazing platform to showcase our creations and engage with food enthusiasts.”
For Begos Bagels, founders Yasmin Jaber and Mohammad Al-Hussaini, the market provided their first opportunity to sell directly to the public: “The Bakers Market gave us the exposure to launch our concept in front of a live audience.”
Afia Oil, highlighting their Saudi-made extra virgin olive oil sourced from Al-Jawf Province, combined product sampling with interactive activities, including a photo booth and a flavor-guessing competition.
Chef Tamara Gazzaz of Pop Tayer, who had previously won Afia’s contest, was sponsored by the brand to take part in the market, where she displayed her mini pastries and samosas.
“Afia has been very generous in supporting local chefs,” she said. “Being part of the market allowed me to share my creations while helping spread awareness of Afia’s products in an engaging way.”
