King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture - Ithra — Attraction in Eastern Province

We entered in the afternoon,it was me,my wife and our 8 yr. old son. We visited the library floor by floor, what a great collection of books. When we reached the 5th floor, i saw a nice spot to read, sadly we were aproached by a lady working there, she nicely told us that children are not allowed in that floor, so we just decided to go down and head to the museum. i hope we were informed earlier.

We went to buy tickets to ithra museum and and childrens museum. the ladies in the ticketing do not know the what time the session starts for children's museum, which is a bit odd considering its their job. After we got the tickets, we headed to ithra museum, in the ticket scanning, we were informed that 1 section is not allowed for kids. that information should have been extended to us by the ladies in the ticketing before we purchased ticket, right? i told them at the ticket scanning, I cant leave my son outside a section while we enjoy the artwork, can I now. the response was, his entrance is free, you did not pay for him, kinda rude huh. someone who seems to be their supervisor aproached me and apologized. I wanted to just refund the tickets but i dont want to ruin the experience for my wife and son.

We entered arcade 1, after around 3 minutes, the guy at the ticket scanning came to us. He said, i told you that you cant enter here. My reply was how should i know which arcade im not allowed to enter. there should be someone in the entrance of the arcade to inform guests about this.im clearly irritated at this point.

So we left arcade 1 and walked down to arcade 2. Art is subjective. i was expecting more.

Arcade 3, the concept was nice, it just lacked depth for me. the lighting made it difficult to see the sea creatures and other images projected on the walls. the interactive stuffs that they have are mostly damaged and not working, probably due to wear and tear or poor maintenance.

Arcade 4, is very simple but informative. i hope they expand this section.

we left the ithra musem and waited in the lobby.

after less than an hour waiting at the lobby, we were finally allowed to enter the kids museum. we were warmly welcomed and a guy informed us about the available activities. the painting session was composed of giving kids paint and paper, with background music playing, i thought it could have been a more entertaining and memorable experience for the kids.

You can see that the staffs tried their best to entertain however many of the interactive items at the first floor are broken, not functioning properly or kind of dirty.

it was already dark when we left the building. Ithra is clearly made to impress and make you say wow, sadly the service does not...

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, affectionately known as Ithra, stands as a Saudi Arabia's unwavering commitment to art, science, and knowledge. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Dhahran, Ithra is not just a cultural center; it's an oasis of inspiration and enlightenment.

The architectural brilliance of Ithra is a marvel in itself. The contemporary design is awe-inspiring, with its sleek lines and innovative use of space. The building itself is a work of art, an emblem of modernity that welcomes visitors with open arms.

But what truly makes Ithra exceptional is what's inside. From world-class art galleries that showcase both local and international talent to a library that rivals some of the greatest in the world, Ithra is a treasure trove of culture and creativity. Each visit is an expedition into the realms of the mind and heart.

The art exhibitions are a visual symphony of creativity and thought-provoking concepts. They challenge the senses and provoke contemplation, making every trip to Ithra an intellectual adventure. The curated collections often feature a diverse range of artistic expressions, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to discover.

However, Ithra is not solely about appreciating art—it's about nurturing innovation and education. The center hosts a rich tapestry of workshops, lectures, and events suitable for all ages and interests. Whether you're a budding artist or a curious scientist, Ithra has something to offer. The library, a sanctuary for bibliophiles, houses a vast collection spanning numerous genres and languages, inviting you to embark on a literary journey.

The staff at Ithra embody a profound passion for their work. Their dedication to enhancing visitors' experiences and sharing knowledge adds to the welcoming atmosphere. They are eager to guide and assist, making your exploration of Ithra all the more enriching.

Whether you're a local resident or a traveler discovering Saudi Arabia, Ithra is a destination that must not be missed. It transcends boundaries, broadens horizons, and ignites inspiration. It is a cultural oasis that celebrates the arts and sciences, a testament to Saudi Arabia's rich heritage and forward-thinking vision. Ithra is a beacon of light in the world of culture, beckoning all who enter to immerse themselves in the beauty of human creativity...

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, affectionately known as Ithra, is a mesmerizing blend of art, culture, innovation, and knowledge. Nestled in the heart of Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, Ithra is nothing short of an architectural marvel—its dynamic design a reflection of the limitless creativity it inspires within its walls.

From the moment you step inside, you are transported into a world where history and future intertwine seamlessly. The striking galleries showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage alongside contemporary global art, creating an atmosphere of unity and diversity. The vibrant exhibitions at Ithra’s museum and the stunning art installations speak to the soul, offering moments of reflection and awe.

One of the center's crown jewels is the world-class library, a treasure trove of knowledge that spans every imaginable topic. It serves as a sanctuary for the curious mind, where you can explore, learn, and be inspired. The interactive elements make learning an immersive and enjoyable experience for people of all ages.

For those with a penchant for performing arts, Ithra’s theater is a gateway to magical experiences, from international performances to thought-provoking plays and musical concerts. It is a hub of creativity where talent flourishes and every performance leaves a lasting impression.

Beyond the arts, Ithra embodies innovation. Its various science and technology exhibits are fascinating and engaging, offering visitors a chance to explore the frontiers of human achievement. The collaborative workshops and hands-on experiences ensure that everyone can leave with new knowledge and inspiration.

What truly makes Ithra magical is its dedication to bringing the world closer together through culture. It’s a place where Saudi tradition meets global innovation, where every corner invites you to explore something new, and every experience enriches your understanding of the world.

A visit to Ithra is a journey of enlightenment—whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in art, history, science, or simply enjoy a unique cultural experience, Ithra leaves you feeling more connected to the world around you. It’s more than just a cultural center; it’s a beacon of creativity and knowledge that resonates far...