The Royal Commission for AlUla has launched the fourth edition of the AlUla Design Award, accepting entries through November 1. Rooted in Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the initiative asks designers worldwide to create new work inspired by AlUla’s ancient craft traditions, from 2,000-year-old carved sandstone tombs to traditional plaster work and embroidery.
This year’s theme, “The Ingenuity of the Human Hand,” poses a straightforward question: how can historical making techniques inform contemporary design that’s both sustainable and culturally meaningful? Two winners, one in Fashion Design and one in Product Design, will each receive a $7,400 grant. Ten finalists will receive prototyping support, expert mentorship, a trip to Saudi Arabia for the award ceremony, and access to AlUla’s design network.
Aligned with 2025 as the Year of Handicraft, the award is part of AlUla’s larger push to become a global design destination that connects ancient craft with modern innovation.
Winners will be announced January 23, 2026. Applications are open now at alula-design.com
