Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – The Common Ground Festival, organized by the Saudi Ministry of Culture as part of the Saudi-China Cultural Year, opened today at the Malfa Hall in Misk City, Riyadh, marking the beginning of a 14-day celebration of creativity and cultural exchange between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the People’s Republic of China.
The festival offers an immersive experience where visitors can explore shared cultural traditions through exhibitions and performances that connect the two civilizations. Families and guests are welcomed into a multi-sensory journey blending art, sound, taste, and movement – an invitation to experience culture through the senses before words.
Opening day highlights included The Courtyard of Two Easts, an immersive installation reflecting parallels between Diriyah and the Great Wall of China, Al-Ahsa Oasis and Jingmai Tea Forest, and various UNESCO-recognized sites that embody coexistence between people and nature. Visitors also explored the joint Saudi-Chinese art exhibition showcasing traditional and contemporary works inspired by craftsmanship and symbolism.
Throughout the venue, the newly introduced Cultural Street invited visitors to move through a curated market environment that reflects historical trade pathways between the two nations. The space featured artisan stalls, cultural retail, tea and coffee counters, and demonstrations of traditional craft practices, offering visitors an environment rooted in exchange and daily-life culture.
The Performing Arts Stage featured musical and theatrical showcases, including a performance by Saudi and Chinese ensembles. Traditional Chinese opera and a puppet performance were also presented, introducing audiences to performative heritage narratives originating from across China, while Saudi traditional performance art groups celebrated regional rhythm and movement.
Culinary activations introduced guests to the shared language of food and hospitality through live cooking of Saudi and Chinese cuisine alongside Chinese tea ceremonies and regional flavors. Dedicated seating areas reflected the cultural role of hosting and gathering.
The Common Ground Festival embodies the Ministry’s commitment to cultural exchange through creativity and collaboration.
