The King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra), an Aramco initiative, announces the launch of the “Ithra Winter”, held in conjunction with the recently announced Khobar Season.
The season features more than 130 programmes and activities focusing on arts and cultural heritage, films, architecture, and design, reported SPA.
Events will take place across Ithra’s various facilities from October 29, 2025, to January 31, 2026.
The opening will be marked by a captivating visual and musical performance that will illuminate Dhahran’s skies for four nights, from October 29 to November 1, set in Ithra’s gardens to celebrate the beginning of the season.
In his remarks, Acting Director of the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) Musaab AlSaraan stated: “The launch of Ithra Winter stems from our mission to foster positive and sustainable community impact while engaging a broad audience through exceptional and distinctive experiences. These include a wide range of programmes, events, musical and performance showcases, presented as part of Khobar Season 2025, which is supported by the Sharqia Development Authority and the Saudi Tourism Authority, in strategic partnership with Ithra, an Aramco initiative, alongside multiple supporters and sponsors from both the public and private sectors.”
He further noted that “Ithra is committed to delivering high-quality programmes that align with the Quality-of-Life Programme and the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. Through these efforts, we aim to cultivate a vibrant intellectual environment that contributes to enriching the cultural movement in the region, while responding to the needs and aspirations of our audiences. We also strive to create engaging and interactive experiences that make Ithra a premier destination for visitors throughout the winter season.”
Visitors can look forward to a delightful winter experience featuring an exciting array of large-scale creative and cultural programmes, along with interactive activities designed to spark imagination and unleash creativity among future generations.
The season also serves as a cultural and touristic destination for visitors from across the Kingdom and neighbouring countries, offering them a joyful and engaging winter experience.
The Chinese Orchestra is among the season’s most anticipated highlights, with a captivating concert where art is beautifully expressed through the harmony of sound and silence—showcasing one of the world’s most esteemed musical ensembles.
The programme also features an evening performance by the Tarabband, the Children’s Orchestra, and a variety of other live musical shows that promise to enrich the audience’s cultural experience.
The Winter Market as part of the season’s festivities, will bring a unique atmosphere to Ithra’s spaces through a food festival, an artists’ market, and a designers’ market. These programmes celebrate taste, culture, art, and creativity—offering immersive experiences that highlight storytelling, showcase handmade products, and promote appreciation for artistic craftsmanship and exhibitions.
Ithra Cultural Days: Spain The season will also feature an immersive experience that invites visitors to journey across time and culture, blending tradition with modernity.
The programme includes theatrical and musical performances, art exhibitions, and visual showcases, alongside sessions hosting prominent Spanish figures who will share their personal stories and achievements with audiences, offering an inspiring glimpse into Spain’s rich cultural and athletic legacy.
The “Ithra Cultural Days: Spain” programme includes a rich selection of musical performances, art showcases, and interactive craft workshops, offering visitors diverse performing arts and visual experiences.
Among the highlights is the “El Mirkato Español” — a vibrant market inspired by the streets and traditional kitchens of Spain.
Running alongside this is Ithra’s “Culinary Experience” programme, which transforms gastronomy into a cultural journey.