In the middle of Alula’s desert canyon lies the old town, where ancient civilisations once thrived. Today, the empty, tottering mud structures are being restored to tell tales of their architectural legacy. In one corner of this heritage city is a single-storey building that nurtures Saudi Arabia’s creative potential.
Women In Travel
This Former Girls School In Saudi Is Now A Hub For Artists
At Madrasat Addeerah in AlUla, 70 women are training in traditional crafts on a journey towards self-reliance
Mallika Bhagat
23 September 2024
Alula's first art and design centre aims to promote traditional crafts of the region Photo: Madrasat Addeerah
Alula's first art and design centre aims to promote traditional crafts of the region Photo: Madrasat Addeerah
Madrasat Addeerah serves as a hub for arts and traditional crafts Photo: Madrasat Addeerah
Madrasat Addeerah serves as a hub for arts and traditional crafts Photo: Madrasat Addeerah
In 1964, this building was Saudi Arabia’s first girls’ school. Today, Madrasat Addeerah serves as a hub for arts and traditional crafts. Taken over by the Royal Commission for Alula in 2019, the school is now a thriving art space, with over 70 students perfecting their skills in areas such as ceramics, jewellery, pottery, wicker making, and more.
