On December 4, 2024, the Green Zone at the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) in Riyadh opened its doors, offering an exciting array of artistic, recreational, cultural, and educational activities. The Green Zone, open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM until December 13, 2024, is expected to welcome over 200,000 visitors of all ages, inviting them to immerse themselves in a dynamic space that emphasizes sustainability and cultural heritage.
Upon arrival at the reception area, visitors are invited to explore a heritage exhibition in a traditional tent, where they can enjoy Saudi coffee and learn about key aspects of Saudi culture, such as falconry traditions and henna painting. Musical performances will further enhance the cultural experience, while an additional pavilion will showcase traditional Saudi clothing, offering visitors a glimpse into the Kingdom’s rich textile heritage.
Within the Green Zone, a key feature is the live mural section, where a local artist will begin a new piece, working towards completing a unique painting dedicated to COP16 over 13 days. Visitors are encouraged to participate and contribute to the evolving masterpiece, allowing them to leave their mark on this collaborative artistic endeavor. In another area, the display of 12 types of wild plants, including jujube, acacia, and wild olive, offers a fascinating look at local flora, complemented by gardens featuring artistic columns adorned with native climbing plants.
For those interested in interactive activities, there is an opportunity to engage in the art of coloring local engravings on mud walls, a traditional technique used to decorate and restore mud houses in rural Saudi Arabia. Visitors can contribute to this activity, using colors inspired by the conference’s theme, highlighting the connection between art, culture, identity, and sustainability.
An important outdoor feature of the Green Zone is the carbon footprint scale, designed to raise environmental awareness. This installation invites visitors to learn about the environmental impact of their daily choices, illustrating how personal habits can either balance or disrupt sustainability efforts. Additionally, visitors can observe artists demonstrating gypsum carving techniques, emphasizing the fusion of art and sustainability by showcasing cultural symbols that reflect the authenticity of traditional crafts.
One of the Green Zone’s standout features is the green mosaic installation, created by Saudi artist Faisal Aboud. This space invites visitors to create mosaic pieces inspired by the stunning beauty of nature, particularly focusing on the lavender fields that symbolize the Kingdom's national identity.
Music lovers will be drawn to the live music area, where three talented Saudi musicians will perform authentic Saudi music. Each day, the musicians will deliver over 190 minutes of live performances using three distinct traditional instruments, set against the backdrop of four iconic landscapes from Saudi Arabia: Soudah, Brodan, Wadi Al-Disah, and Taif.
In addition to musical performances, the crafts area will feature live demonstrations by six skilled artisans, showcasing three traditional crafts: Sadu weaving, wickerwork, and wooden door artistry. Over the course of 370 minutes, these craftsmen will create works inspired by Saudi Arabia’s ancient cultural heritage, highlighting the vital role these crafts play in promoting sustainable lifestyles and preserving cultural expression.
The roving shows will also be a key attraction, presenting over 150 performances of Saudi and international folklore. Featuring the participation of 245 artists from 14 countries, these performances will offer daily glimpses into the richness of world cultures, with each show lasting approximately 15 minutes.
The Green Zone is designed as an innovative and inclusive public space for civil society organizations, NGOs, businesses, youth groups, and other stakeholders. It will host a variety of events, exhibitions, workshops, and discussions that address pressing issues such as land degradation, desertification, and drought. The Green Zone is a platform for promoting public participation, education, and knowledge exchange, while showcasing innovative solutions and fostering dialogue on sustainability.
With over 213 international and local entities actively participating, including governments, companies, and community initiatives, the Green Zone is a key space for collaboration among international, regional, and Saudi stakeholders. Four major forums will also take place in the Green Zone, including the Water Sustainability for a Green Future Forum (December 3–13), the Saudi Green Initiative Forum (December 3–4), the International Forum for Afforestation Technologies (December 6–8), and Sustainability Innovation Week (December 9–11).
Visitors can register to participate and explore the Green Zone through the official website: https://www.unccdcop16.org/green-zone?lang=en.
