Winter At Tantoura, Saudi festival to run for 7 weeks in Ula ancient city

Winter At Tantora festival, the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia, will kick off on Thursday December 20 and conclude on February 9, 2019.

The cultural and touristic festival that will run for seven weeks will be held in the city of Al-Ula, an ancient city known for its rock monuments, and will include various programs and events.

According to the festival’s schedule, there will be music concerts by renowned artists Mohamed Abdo, Majida El Roumi, Renaud Capucon, Omar Khairat, Lang Lang, Andrea Bocelli and Yanni.

This is in addition to a concert that will play Um Kulthum’s songs via the hologram technology.

What is Tantora?

According to the festival’s official website, Tantora is a marker for the changing of the seasons. The Tantora, a triangular feature constructed as the upper part of a wall, is thus a sundial that has been used by the local population for hundreds of years as a marker for the start of the winter planting season.

Al-Ula county, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is distinguished for its history as it has been the site of various civilizations throughout history. The festival will thus reflect this ancient heritage and showcase its historical and cultural depth.

Various events

The festival’s events will include light shows, a hot air balloon festival and the Fursan festival which will play host to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup on February 2.

Eighty equestrians will participate in the event that will be held in partnership between the Saudi Equestrian Federation and the Royal Commission of al-Ula.

Other events will shed light on the old town’s history and crafts inherited by generations. This is in addition to an exquisite food experience via food carts.

Visitors from all over the world

Visitors from across the world will be able to visit the Kingdom and go to the festival as Saudi Arabia has made e-visas available for all citizens of the Schengen Zone and USA, Australia, Japan, South Korea, South Africa, Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.

The Festival’s management has published a number of pictures and videos, in addition to launching a website and social media pages that posts the dates and timings for the concerts.