Opera lovers in the Gulf have a rare cultural event to look forward to. Saudi Arabia will host a performance of Carmen—one of history’s most celebrated operas—for the first time. Staged at the King Fahad Cultural Centre in Riyadh, the production will run from 4 to 6 September 2025.
The event is part of the official Saudi-China Cultural Year 2025, a celebration of 35 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries. This year also marks the 150th anniversary of Carmen’s debut in France, adding to the significance of its staging in the Kingdom.
A Timeless Story Brought to Riyadh
First performed in 1875, Carmen has since become one of the most frequently staged operas worldwide. Its bold characters and unforgettable music have cemented it as a cornerstone of classical performance.
The story follows Carmen, a free-spirited woman whose relationship with soldier Don José unfolds into a passionate and tragic tale of love, freedom, and jealousy. With music by Georges Bizet, the opera features some of the world’s most recognisable melodies, including the famous “Habanera” and “Toreador Song”.
A Regional Milestone in the Arts
The performance in Riyadh will be brought to life by the China National Opera House, known for its large-scale productions and meticulous artistry. The staging represents not only a milestone for Saudi Arabia’s cultural ambitions but also a moment for the wider Gulf region, reflecting the Middle East’s growing role as a hub for global art and performance.
For residents in Dubai and across the UAE, the production is another sign of how the region is becoming increasingly connected to international cultural circuits. It also highlights the opportunities now available closer to home for experiencing performances once limited to European opera houses.
audiences can experience
The Riyadh staging promises a full-scale operatic experience, complete with elaborate set designs, authentic costumes, and a sweeping orchestral performance.
Audiences can look forward to three hours of drama and music, where the intensity of the story is matched by Bizet’s thrilling score. From the passion of Carmen herself to the tragic arc of Don José, the opera captures the full range of human emotions in a way that continues to resonate with audiences more than a century later.
Ticket Details
Tickets are now available and are expected to sell quickly, given that there will only be three performances. Prices are tiered to suit different preferences:
- SAR 80 (Standard)
- SAR 120 (Silver)
- SAR 200 (Gold)
- SAR 360 (Platinum)
- SAR 600 (VIP)
- SAR 920 (Royal)
Performances will take place from 8 pm to 11 pm each evening, with doors opening at 7 pm.
It is Worth the Trip from the UAE
For Dubai residents, Riyadh is just a short flight away, making this a perfect opportunity for a cultural getaway. With the opera staged in such a prestigious venue, the experience promises to be both a musical and cultural highlight.
As both Saudi Arabia and the UAE continue to expand their arts and cultural offerings, events like this create shared opportunities for audiences across the region. For those who have long dreamed of seeing Carmen performed live, this September offers a chance to experience the opera in a setting that is both historic and close to home.
With its powerful music, unforgettable characters, and enduring drama, Carmen has captivated audiences for 150 years. Its first performance in Saudi Arabia is a cultural moment not to be missed, and with just three shows on the calendar, tickets are set to be in high demand.
For opera fans in the UAE and beyond, the Riyadh staging is more than just a performance—it’s an opportunity to witness a piece of history unfold in the region.
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