Dhahran: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), an Aramco initiative, has announced the launch of the 'Ithra Winter' season, held in conjunction with the recently unveiled Khobar Season. The initiative will feature over 130 programs and activities concentrating on arts, cultural heritage, films, architecture, and design. These events will be hosted across Ithra's facilities from October 29, 2025, to January 31, 2026. The season's commencement will be highlighted by a visual and musical performance that will light up Dhahran's skies for four consecutive nights, from October 29 to November 1, set in Ithra's gardens to mark the beginning of the festivities.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Musaab AlSaraan, Acting Director of the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), stated that the launch of Ithra Winter is integral to their mission of fostering a positive and sustainable community impact. It aims to engage a broad audience through exceptional experiences, including a wide range of programs and showcases, as part of Khobar Season 2025. This effort is supported by the Sharqia Development Authority and the Saudi Tourism Authority, in partnership with Ithra and backed by various public and private sector supporters and sponsors.
AlSaraan emphasized Ithra's commitment to delivering high-quality programs that align with the Quality-of-Life Program and the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. The goal is to cultivate a vibrant intellectual environment that enriches the cultural movement in the region, addressing the needs and aspirations of the audience. Ithra strives to create engaging and interactive experiences, positioning itself as a premier visitor destination throughout the winter season.
Visitors can anticipate a delightful winter experience with a variety of large-scale creative and cultural programs and interactive activities designed to inspire future generations. The season aims to serve as a cultural and touristic destination for visitors from the Kingdom and neighboring countries, offering an engaging winter experience.
Among the season's highlights is a concert by the Chinese Orchestra, where art is expressed through the harmony of sound and silence, showcasing one of the world's esteemed musical ensembles. The program also includes performances by Tarabband, the Children's Orchestra, and other live musical shows to enrich the audience's cultural experience.
The Winter Market adds a unique atmosphere to Ithra's spaces through a food festival, an artists' market, and a designers' market. These programs celebrate taste, culture, art, and creativity, offering immersive experiences that highlight storytelling, handcrafted products, and artistic craftsmanship.
'Ithra Cultural Days: Spain' will offer an immersive experience blending tradition with modernity. The program includes performances, exhibitions, and visual showcases, alongside sessions with prominent Spanish figures sharing personal stories and achievements, offering an inspiring glimpse into Spain's cultural and athletic legacy.
The program features musical performances, art showcases, and workshops, offering diverse performing arts and visual experiences. Highlights include 'El Mirkato Espa±ol', a vibrant market inspired by Spain, and Ithra's 'Culinary Experience' program, transforming gastronomy into a cultural journey.
Ithra participated in a press conference at the Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz Center for Science and Technology (Scitech), where the official launch of Khobar Season 2025 was announced.