RIYADH: The public art initiative Noor Riyadh is returning for its fifth edition from Nov. 20 to Dec. 6.

Under the umbrella of Riyadh Art, the light art festival will once again transform the Saudi capital with groundbreaking installations by leading local and international artists.

“In the Blink of an Eye,” its theme for 2025, is inspired by Riyadh’s rapid transformation. It reflects the city’s evolving identity which juxtaposes its historic core with visionary infrastructure, including the newly launched metro system.

Noor Riyadh is part of the Riyadh Art program, one of four megaprojects in the capital launched by King Salman under the Vision 2030 plan.

As a pioneering cultural initiative, Riyadh Art is led by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, which oversees strategic, multi-sector transformational programs to help position the capital as a global center for contemporary art and culture.

The program drives cultural innovation and supports economic diversification by embedding art in public spaces to enhance the urban experience.

Minister of Culture Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, who also chairs the Riyadh Art program’s steering committee, said: “This year’s theme captures the momentum of change that defines Riyadh today.

“Through Noor Riyadh we continue to deepen the role of public art in shaping cultural exchange, enriching daily life, and positioning Riyadh as a creative capital on the world stage.”

Riyadh Art has showcased more than 550 artworks by more than 500 Saudi and international artists, attracting more than 9.6 million visitors through major programs, including Noor Riyadh.

This year’s edition further expands the festival’s curatorial ambition and aims to create meaningful moments for residents and visitors.

Noor Riyadh 2025 will feature more than 60 large-scale light installations, building on the success of previous editions and reaffirming its status as a leading platform for contemporary public art.

First launched in March 2021, it includes an exhibition alongside a public program of community activities such as educational workshops, talks, and performances.