Villa Hegra

Born of the friendship between Saudi Arabia and France, Villa Hegra is an institution promoting bilateral cultural cooperation. It supports contemporary artistic practices, particularly in the visual arts, design, cinema and performing arts, offering an open space for creativity, education and exchange.

Since 2023, Villa Hegra has developed its off-site artistic program, becoming part of AlUla’s cultural landscape through residencies, workshops, performances, academic exchanges and research programs in collaboration with Saudi, French and international partners, and has also presented initiatives in France.

In October 2025, Villa Hegra opened its doors in central AlUla, establishing a new destination for artist residencies and cultural initiatives open to all. This cross-disciplinary hub also includes a cinema as well as AlUla’s first performing arts studio.

Villa Hegra belongs to the international network ¡Viva Villa!, including Villa Medici in Rome, Villa Kujoyama in Kyoto, Casa de Velázquez in Madrid, Villa Albertine in the United States and Villa Swagatam in India. It continues the tradition of these artist residencies that, since the 17th century, have provided an ideal setting for creation and encouraged dialogue with the community.

Villa Hegra’s program is built around innovation, transmission and collaboration, inviting local and international audiences to actively take part in the creative process.