AlUla Set To Open Two New Museums
The Contemporary Art Museum and Museum of the Incense Road will open in the near future
The region’s culture hub will be opening two new not-to-be-missed destinations in just a few years, adding to the historical richness it’s famous for…
The Royal Commission for AlUla has announced that it is creating two new upcoming museums, both of which are set to open in the coming years. Architects Lina Ghotmeh and Asif Khan have been tapped to bring these two cultural hubs to fruition.
The Contemporary Art Museum, which will be designed by Lina, will exhibit a collection of modern-day art by regional artists, creating a vibrant legacy within the historical city as well as job opportunities for individuals working in related fields; the Museum of the Incense Road, designed by Asif Khan, will be the world’s first museum of its kind, highlighting the sacred land and trading routes of Saudi Arabia.
Both Lina and Asif are well-respected architects. Lina was inducted to join some of the most renowned architectural names in the world by being chosen to design the 2023 Serpentine Exhibit in London; she was also the recipient of the 2020 Tamayouz “Women of Outstanding Achievement” Prize and the 2020 Schelling Prize.
London-based Asif is best known for his distinctive architectural approach and ability to seamlessly combine technology, art, and functionality. Within his designs, he uses avant-garde materials and technologies to create structures that not only enhance user experience but are also sustainable and visually striking. Some of his notable works include the design of the Serpentine Summer House and the Museum of London in 2016 which contributed to him being named Architect of the Year by the German Design Council in 2017.
AlUla is a region in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, about 200 kilometers (120 miles) north of Medina. It is home to a number of ancient archaeological sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hegra, as well as the Mada’in Saleh, a large Nabataean city. AlUla is also known for its natural beauty, including its desert landscapes, oases, and mountains.
The region has been inhabited for thousands of years and was once a major crossroads for trade and commerce. It was also an important center for religion and culture and was home to a number of different civilizations, including the Nabataeans, Lihyanites, and Dadanites. In recent years, AlUla has been undergoing a major transformation, with the Saudi government investing heavily in its development and tourism.
From five-star resorts to historical sights, the town is a must-visit to anyone traveling throughout the region.
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Lead image from Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s November 2022 issue.