The fourth edition of the Azimuth Festival began on september 19, with world-renowned DJs, captivating performances, and a celebration of individuality in the heart of the AlUla desert

The much-anticipated Azimuth Festival AlUla 2024 opened its doors in AlUla on September 19, drawing in a vibrant crowd of music enthusiasts from around the world. Set against the breathtaking desert landscape of AlUla, the festival celebrated its fourth year by hosting a lineup of international DJs and artists, creating a magical fusion of music and nature. This year’s Azimuth Festival promises an unforgettable experience, highlighting the unique cultural atmosphere of the region.

Kicking off the festivities was German DJ Ben Böhmer, performing for the first time in Saudi Arabia. “It’s my first time both visiting and performing here. I’m thrilled to be in such a beautiful place,” Böhmer shared, expressing his excitement ahead of his performance. His music, alongside that of other renowned artists such as YokoO, Ghostly Kisses, The Blaze, Monolink, Eli & Fur, and Amine K, brought electrifying energy to the festival’s opening night.

Running with the theme “Until the Sun Comes Up,” the festival treated attendees to music from dusk until dawn, with performances continuing until 7 a.m. across two main stages: the main stage and the Hive stage, the latter showcasing local talent and emerging Saudi DJs. DJ Cosmicat, a familiar face at the festival, returned for her third year to close out the Hive stage. “I’ll be performing from 5:20 a.m. until 7 a.m. It’s a great vibe, and the music is calming—perfect for the desert atmosphere,” Cosmicat said, reflecting on how the festival has evolved over the years.

The festival offered a space where music lovers of all ages and nationalities could gather, dance, and enjoy the unique experience against the stunning AlUla backdrop. Thursday night began with YokoO’s captivating 80-minute set, displaying his expertise in house music, followed by the ethereal sounds of Ghostly Kisses. The energy kept rising with The Blaze’s electrifying performance, and under the stars, Ben Böhmer set the perfect tone for the night. Monolink took the stage next, followed by Eli & Fur, and Amine K closed out the night with a dynamic performance that truly embodied the “Until the Sun Comes Up” spirit.

The Hive stage continued to shine on both Thursday and Friday nights, with a lineup of regional and underground artists sharing their unique sounds. This year’s Azimuth Festival AlUla 2024 also stood out for its celebration of individuality, with attendees showcasing distinctive outfits that reflected their personalities and musical preferences. The vibrant atmosphere highlighted the festival’s commitment to creativity and self-expression in the heart of the desert.

As the Azimuth Festival AlUla 2024 kicked into full gear, it wasn’t just about the music—it was about the experience. AlUla’s desert setting provided the perfect canvas for festival-goers to connect, dance, and create memories that would last a lifetime. The festival, now in its fourth edition, continues to grow and evolve, offering an unforgettable fusion of music, art, and culture. With each passing year, the Azimuth Festival further cements its reputation as a must-attend event in the global music scene.

Analysis

Political: The Azimuth Festival reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to promote cultural openness and diversify its economy through tourism and entertainment under Vision 2030. Hosting international events like this signals the Kingdom’s desire to position itself as a global destination for arts and music. By bringing world-renowned artists to AlUla, Saudi Arabia is enhancing its global image and soft power, showing a more modern, progressive side to its international audience.

Social: The festival serves as a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to experience a shared love of music. In the traditionally conservative context of Saudi Arabia, the festival encourages creative expression and celebrates individuality, as seen in the unique and eclectic outfits worn by attendees. This event fosters a sense of community among locals and visitors, providing a space where people can connect over music, art, and shared experiences in a relaxed environment.

Racial: The Azimuth Festival also highlights Saudi Arabia’s increasing openness to global cultures and influences. With international artists from different backgrounds performing alongside local talent, the festival is an opportunity to celebrate diversity in the music industry. The inclusion of Saudi DJs on the lineup, alongside world-famous performers, promotes a dialogue between global and local sounds, bridging the gap between different musical traditions and racial identities.

Gender: The festival showcases a shift in Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape, particularly in terms of gender roles. Female DJs, such as Cosmicat, are featured prominently in the lineup, reflecting the growing visibility and acceptance of women in the Kingdom’s music scene. This represents a broader societal change, where women are increasingly participating in public life and contributing to Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural identity. By giving women artists a platform to shine, the festival promotes gender equality and challenges traditional norms within the region.

Economic: The Azimuth Festival is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy by developing its tourism and entertainment sectors. As the Kingdom seeks to reduce its dependence on oil revenues, events like this play a crucial role in attracting international visitors and boosting the local economy. AlUla, in particular, has been positioned as a cultural hub and tourist destination, with the festival contributing to its growing reputation. The influx of tourists for such events stimulates the hospitality, transport, and retail sectors, providing a boost to the local economy.