Last year, Saudi Arabia launched a one-of-its-kind festival in the breathtaking, historical region of Al-Ula. Set in the north western region of the Kingdom, in a location known for its golden sandstone and mesmerizing oases, the inaugural edition of Winter At Tantora was a success, bringing in a big number of visitors and a number of big names to perform such as world-renowned Italian opera singer Andrea Bocelli, famous Greek composer and musician Yanni, French violinist Renaud Capuçon, multiple award-winning Egyptian composer Omar Khairat, and renowned pianist Lang Lang.
This week, Saudi Arabia announced that this over-five-thousand-year-old region, home to centuries of rich culture and history, will once again host the much-anticipated festival, scheduled to start December 19, under the title of “A Journey Through Time In A Timeless Historical Site.” According to Arab News, this year’s lineup will also include some big names, such as Enrique Iglesias and Lionel Ritchie, as well as Omar Khairat and Yanni who will perform at the festival for the second time.
Enrique Iglesias in Saudi Arabia
Aside from concerts, this year’s edition of Winter At Tantora will offer a performance by Lebanon’s renowned Caracalla Dance Theater, inspired by the history of Al-Ula. There will also be various activities for audiences of all ages, from arts and culture, to more adventure-centric offerings, to cooking experiences led by international Michelin-class chefs. The much-loved balloon festival will also be held, sending off into the region’s magnificent sky a fleet of 100 hot air balloons. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Cup for Endurance will also take place, reported to be the second largest endurance race in the world that will see over 200 jockeys from around the globe competing for a 120-kilometer track.
