A Global Celebration of Islamic Art and Culture
The second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale, titled And All That Is In Between, has officially opened to the public in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. His Excellency Rakan Bin Ibrahim Al-Touq, Assistant Minister of Culture of Saudi Arabia, attended the opening, marking the beginning of this prestigious cultural event.
As the world’s only biennial exhibition dedicated to Islamic art and civilization, the Biennale showcases both historical artefacts and contemporary artistic expressions, reinforcing the relevance of tradition in today’s world.
An Unparalleled Display of Global Islamic Heritage
The 2025 Islamic Arts Biennale features contributions from over 30 leading institutions worldwide, including:
- Vatican Apostolic Library (Vatican City)
- Louvre Museum (Paris)
- Victoria and Albert Museum (London)
- Ahmed Baba Institute of Higher Learning and Islamic Research (Timbuktu)
- Museum of Islamic Art (Doha)
- Manuscript Institution of Türkiye (Istanbul)
In addition, Saudi institutions have partnered with the Biennale, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience objects from the holy sites of Makkah and Madinah. These sacred items provide deep insight into the spiritual and cultural history of Islam, strengthening the connection between past and present.
A Grand Exhibition of Islamic Art and Contemporary Creativity
Spanning an impressive 100,000 square meters, the Biennale is housed within five exhibition halls and outdoor spaces. It features over 500 artefacts, displayed in dialogue with contemporary art, showcasing how faith, creativity, and culture intertwine.
More than 30 artists from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf region, and beyond are participating, presenting diverse interpretations of Islamic identity and heritage. Their works explore themes such as spirituality, tradition, and the evolution of artistic expression in the Islamic world.
Among the highlights of this year’s exhibition is the first-ever display of the entire Kiswah—the sacred cloth that covers the Holy Kaaba—outside of Makkah. This unprecedented exhibit allows visitors to experience the craftsmanship and deep religious significance of one of the most important artefacts in Islam.
Visionary Leadership and Artistic Direction
The Biennale is led by an esteemed team of artistic directors and curators, including:
- Julian Raby
- Amin Jaffer
- Abdul Rahman Azzam
- Muhannad Shono (Curator of Contemporary Art)
By placing historical objects alongside modern artistic expressions, the exhibition invites visitors to explore the enduring influence of Islamic culture across different time periods and geographies.
A Venue Rich in History and Significance
The Islamic Arts Biennale is set within the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah a symbolic location that resonates with millions of Muslim pilgrims who embark on their sacred journeys for Hajj and Umrah. This historic setting enhances the spiritual and cultural depth of the exhibition.
The terminal, known for its architectural significance and its role in welcoming pilgrims from around the world, adds an emotional and historical dimension to the Biennale. It serves as a powerful reminder of Jeddah’s status as a gateway to the Islamic world, where different cultures converge in a shared spiritual experience.
Exploring Faith Through Art
The Islamic Arts Biennale 2025 is more than just an exhibition—it is an immersive experience that encourages visitors to reflect on the role of faith in artistic expression. By featuring both historical artefacts and contemporary pieces, the event bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, showing how the essence of Islamic culture continues to inspire new generations of artists.
This year’s Biennale also includes a series of talks, workshops, and interactive sessions, allowing visitors to engage deeply with the themes and works on display. Through discussions with curators, artists, and historians, attendees can gain a greater understanding of the rich artistic traditions that have shaped Islamic civilizations for centuries.
Event Details and Duration
The 2025 Islamic Arts Biennale will remain open to the public until May 25, 2025. Visitors from around the world are invited to witness this extraordinary display of Islamic heritage, artistic innovation, and cultural dialogue.