The festival runs until 29 November at Al Bujairi.
Saudi Arabia’s cultural calendar is in full swing, and one of its most anticipated events is back in the spotlight. The Diriyah Storytelling Festival has returned for its second edition, turning the historic Al Bujairi District into a lively celebration of words, imagination and culture until 29 November 2025.
Set within sight of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At Turaif, Al Bujairi offers an atmospheric setting for the festival. Traditional Najdi architecture, winding alleyways and courtyard spaces create a cinematic backdrop for evenings filled with readings, talks and performances. It is a fitting home for a festival that celebrates the timeless power of stories and the people who tell them.
The Diriyah Storytelling Festival is a two-week programme that brings together writers, storytellers, academics, creatives and book lovers from across Saudi Arabia and beyond. The focus is on how stories shape identities, bridge cultures and connect communities. Across the festival, you can explore more than 40 workshops and panel discussions, alongside over 20 lectures and sessions featuring more than 30 speakers.
On the schedule, you will find workshops such as Translating Meaning in Stories, The Writer’s Path and Creative Tools, designed for both aspiring and established writers. Thought-provoking lectures will cover topics like Reimagining the Past and Writing Society on Screen, inviting guests to think about how narratives evolve with time and technology.
Beyond the classroom-style sessions, the festival experience stretches across the district. Expect a novel fair where you can browse new titles, book signings with regional and international authors, a quiet reading sanctuary, storytelling performances, arts showcases and a dedicated Writers’ Retreat. Whether you are polishing a manuscript, searching for your next great read or simply in the mood to listen, there is something tailored to every kind of story lover.
The Diriyah Storytelling Festival connects the region’s rich oral and literary traditions with contemporary forms of expression. It celebrates Saudi identity while opening the door to global perspectives, offering a rare chance to learn from experts, discover new voices and maybe even unlock your own creative voice. If you are looking for a cultural outing that is as enriching as it is inspiring this season, this is the event to add to your Riyadh agenda.
GO: Visit https://diriyahstorytellingfestival.com for more information.