About
Born from the friendship between France and Saudi Arabia, Villa Hegra is a space dedicated to contemporary creation, research, and intercultural dialogue.
Located in AlUla, a vast region in north-western Saudi Arabia, the Villa is set within a territory rich in both historical and natural heritage. Once a major crossroads along the incense trade routes and a meeting point between civilizations, AlUla is now establishing itself as a leading international cultural and tourism destination.
Within this unique environment, the Villa contributes to the local cultural landscape through a programming that brings together residencies, performances, academic exchanges, research initiatives, cinema, and workshops.
Since 2025, Villa Hegra has been a member of the ¡Viva Villa! international network of artist residencies, which includes Villa Medici in Rome, Villa Kujoyama in Kyoto, Casa de Velázquez in Madrid, Villa Albertine in the United States, and Villa Swagatam in India.
Signing of the Saudi-French intergovernmental agreement on Villa Hegra.
Establishment of Villa Hegra as a Saudi foundation by Royal Order during the State visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to Saudi Arabia and AlUla.
Opening of the Villa Hegra’s doors in AlUla and launch of its new cultural program.
Founding Entities
Established through an intergovernmental agreement signed between the two countries in 2021, Villa Hegra is built on a model of shared Saudi-French governance. It is supported by its founding institutions: the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the French Agency for AlUla Development (Afalula).
Partners
