Sotheby’s has announced its inaugural auction to take place in Saudi Arabia.

Slated to be a historic event, a two-part evening auction will take place in Diriyah, in February of next year, marking the first international auction ever to be held in the Kingdom.

Entitled “Origins,” the two-part evening auction will take place on February 8, 2025, showcasing a diverse range of offerings, from fine art and jewellery, to luxury watches, sporting memorabilia and even luxury cars. With art pieces and designs up for auction by both home-grown Saudi artists alongside some of the leading names in international art history, this auction is set to be a special moment in the world of arts and culture in the Kingdom.

The auction will be held in the historic Diriyah, the ancestral heart of Saudi Arabia.

This iconic location, steeped in history and culture, is undergoing a significant transformation into a vibrant cultural hub. The choice of Diriyah for this historic event underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future.

Prior to the auction, a week-long public exhibition will take place from February 1 to 8, offering visitors a chance to view the extraordinary pieces on display. This exhibition will celebrate the intersection of art, luxury, and culture, providing a unique experience for art enthusiasts and collectors.

Ahmed Mater, Untitled (Diptych from The Illumination Series), Offset lithograph and gold leaf on paper with tea and pomegranate toning, 174 by 225cm, 2012 (image courtesy Sotheby's)

“We wanted to inaugurate our official new home in Saudi Arabia with a taste of what Sotheby’s can bring to the doorsteps of both those who have started their own collections, and others who are about to enter this world for the first time,” said Ashkan Baghestani, Sotheby’s Head of Sale & Contemporary Art Specialist.

“As such, we wanted this first sale both to serve as an introduction to our offering and to embody the cross-category spirit we pride ourselves on curating.”

Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Al Faisaliyah Center, faisaliah tower, 7 Jan 2021

Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, Al Faisaliyah Center, faisaliah tower, 7 Jan 2021

Al Faisaliah Tower, Riyadh

This milestone event marks the next chapter in Sotheby’s ongoing commitment to the Middle East.

The auction house has been actively involved in the region, supporting cultural initiatives and fostering a vibrant art scene. With the establishment of its physical presence in Riyadh's landmark Al Faisaliah Tower, Sotheby’s aims to further strengthen its connection with local collectors and contribute to the growth of the art market in the Kingdom.

Take a look at what you can expect:

‘Origins’, February 8, 2025
Diriyah, Riyadh
@sothebys

sotheby's-diriyah