Riyadh, November 26, 2024 – In a groundbreaking initiative, the Music Commission, an arm of Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, has announced the launch of the first-ever Riyadh Music Week. The event, set to take place from December 5 to 14, 2024, will be held in collaboration with key partners including MDLBeast and the Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG). The week-long celebration will take place across multiple venues in Riyadh, highlighting the Kingdom’s rapid progression in the music and arts industries, as well as its evolving role in the global music landscape.
Celebrating Saudi and Global Music Talent Riyadh Music Week aims to spotlight Saudi Arabia’s dynamic music scene while fostering international dialogue on music policy, development, and the growing global significance of the Kingdom’s creative industries. The event will showcase a range of local talents, from traditional music performances to contemporary sounds, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage and modern musical innovations. Small venues across Riyadh will be activated to offer live performances that capture the diversity and creativity of Saudi artists.
One of the key features of the week will be the Global Music Makers Summit, a new initiative that will gather international music leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss the future of music. The summit will provide an important platform for networking, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas on music’s global impact. Additionally, the event will feature the Music Cities Convention and Awards, marking the first time this prestigious global conference will be held in the Middle East. The convention will focus on the role of music in urban development, tourism, and cultural policy, further cementing Riyadh’s status as a rising music capital.
A Hub for Music Policy, Innovation, and Opportunities Throughout the week, attendees will have access to a variety of engaging sessions, including panel discussions, seminars, and workshops, all centered around the latest trends and developments in the music industry. These events will provide valuable insights into the intersections of music and technology, innovation, and global cultural exchange.
Additionally, Riyadh Music Week will feature the return of well-established events in the Saudi music calendar, such as XP Music Futures and SoundStorm, alongside the inaugural Billboard Arabia Music Awards, which will honor outstanding contributions to the Arab music industry. The week will not only provide a stage for local and international collaboration but also offer emerging artists and businesses the opportunity to engage with key industry stakeholders, opening doors for career advancement and commercial growth in the Kingdom’s rapidly expanding music sector.
A Step Toward the Future of Saudi Music The hosting of Riyadh Music Week underscores the Music Commission’s commitment to supporting the growth of Saudi Arabia’s music industry. By offering a platform for both emerging and established local artists, the event will play a pivotal role in advancing the Kingdom’s cultural agenda and fostering a vibrant music ecosystem that is both commercially viable and globally influential. As part of Saudi Vision 2030, the event is also an important step in enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a leading destination for arts and culture in the region.
Riyadh Music Week is poised to be a historic moment for Saudi Arabia, reinforcing the Kingdom’s dedication to nurturing talent, promoting cultural exchange, and contributing to the global dialogue on the future of music.