Jeddah is home to the first-ever Islamic Arts museum in Saudi Arabia
The museum showcases artefacts spanning 15 centuries
The House of Islamic Arts in Jeddah, the Kingdom’s first museum dedicated entirely to Islamic art, houses 1,000 rare artefacts spanning 15 centuries. The collection showcases craftsmanship and innovation from across the Islamic world, ranging from China and India to the Maghreb and Andalusia.
The museum aims to be a major contributor to the Saudi cultural movement, offering world-class quality; to contribute to the preservation and promotion of Islamic heritage for future generations; and to highlight the pioneering role of Muslims in building human civilisation throughout the ages.
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A central highlight is the Arabic calligraphy section, which showcases rare Quranic manuscripts that illustrate how writing evolved into a spiritual art form. Key pieces at the museum include a 2.6-metre-long fabric inscribed with a third of the Holy Quran in microscopic script, as well as a manuscript in which each letter contains one of the Names of Allah.
Beyond calligraphy, the museum features ceramics, textiles, coins, and architectural elements. Through modern interactive displays, temporary exhibitions, workshops, and lectures, the museum serves as a vibrant landmark and cultural hub, connecting past heritage with future generations.
Actively participating in scientific and cultural activities, exhibitions, and forums related to Islamic arts and antiquities within and outside the Kingdom, the House of Islamic Arts in Jeddah enables museum visitors to learn about Islamic history through various sensory means and virtual tours. The museum has something for people of all ages and cultural levels to enjoy.
The venue fosters a sense of belonging to the glorious past and stimulates creativity for a promising future, developing a number of initiatives and programmes aimed at attracting and engaging visitors at the local and regional levels.
See you there?
Location: Aziziyah
Timing: Sat to Thu 10am to 10pm & Fri 5pm to 11pm
Images: SPA
