Riyadh, December 26, 2024 – The Common Grounds Festival, currently underway at Boulevard City in Riyadh, has captured the attention of intellectuals, artists, and cultural enthusiasts from both Saudi Arabia and Iraq since its grand opening on December 18. This unique cultural event celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Iraq while drawing meaningful parallels with the traditions of Saudi Arabia, offering a profound and immersive experience for all who attend.
Spanning a broad spectrum of cultural expressions, the festival features over 100 artworks created by both Saudi and Iraqi artists. Through these visual and auditory masterpieces, the festival fosters dialogue and understanding between the two nations. The exhibits include an eclectic array of traditional musical instruments, paintings, sculptures, and musical performances—each telling the stories of Iraq’s ancient civilization and its shared cultural heritage with the Kingdom. The festival highlights themes of cultural dialogue and mutual respect, providing a platform for reflection on the intertwined histories and traditions of both nations.
A striking element of the Common Grounds Festival is its ability to immerse visitors in the cultural depth of both Saudi Arabia and Iraq. From the moment attendees enter the festival grounds, they are greeted with a sensory exploration of literature, fine arts, and traditional music. The event is more than just an exhibition; it is an interactive journey through time and culture. Among the festival’s offerings are workshops, dialogue sessions, and live concerts, which provide attendees with opportunities to engage directly with artists, creators, and cultural experts. These sessions create a dynamic environment where both nations’ cultural legacies are celebrated and explored.
Now in its second edition, the Common Grounds Festival runs until December 31, and it continues to serve as a significant cultural platform aimed at strengthening the ties between Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The festival highlights the deep historical connection between the two countries, emphasizing the common threads that bind their shared Arab heritage. This event aligns closely with the Ministry of Culture’s broader vision to enrich cultural content and diversify artistic events as part of the National Strategy for Culture under Saudi Vision 2030. It also underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to promoting international cultural exchange as a means of building stronger diplomatic and cultural relationships on the global stage.
Through the celebration of shared heritage, the Common Grounds Festival not only showcases the beauty of Iraq’s civilization but also emphasizes the enduring bond between Saudi Arabia and Iraq. This connection—rooted in history, language, and tradition—serves as a bridge for future collaborations in the arts, culture, and beyond, enriching both nations’ cultural landscapes. The festival, which continues to attract visitors from all walks of life, is a testament to the power of cultural exchange in fostering understanding, unity, and respect among peoples of the Arab world.