Jeddah is hosting Makers Matters 2026, a three-day creative fair organised by Art Jameel and developed by Hayy Makers. Running from 12 to 14 November at Hayy Jameel, the event will feature a makers’ market, handmade exhibitions, creative workshops and children’s activities. General admission is free, while selected workshops cost SAR 75. The event offers visitors an opportunity to discover Saudi Arabia’s creative community and shop from independent local makers.
- Location: Hayy Jameel, Al Muhammadiyah District, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Organiser: Art Jameel, developed by Hayy Makers
- Dates: 12–14 November 2026
- Who can attend: Families, children, artists, designers and visitors
- Business impact: A platform for local artisans, independent brands and creative businesses
- What’s next: Three days of workshops, exhibitions, a makers’ market and family activities
What Is Makers Matters 2026 In Jeddah?
Jeddah is getting a new creative fair this November, and visitors can explore it without paying an entry fee. Makers Matters 2026 will run from Thursday, 12 November, to Saturday, 14 November, at Hayy Jameel, bringing together artists, designers, craftspeople and independent makers from across Saudi Arabia.
Organised by Art Jameel and developed by Hayy Makers, the event celebrates handmade products, traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. Visitors can explore creative exhibitions, watch demonstrations, join selected workshops and shop for locally made products.
The fair is also designed for people who simply enjoy discovering new things. Visitors do not need an artistic background to take part, making it an interesting outing for families, creative enthusiasts and anyone looking for something different to do in Jeddah.
1. Explore Creative Workshops And Live Demonstrations
One of the main attractions at Makers Matters will be its hands-on creative programme. Visitors can explore different techniques across traditional crafts and modern design, including ceramics, woodworking, photography and digital fabrication.
The programme will also introduce experimental design, giving visitors an opportunity to see how everyday materials and creative ideas can turn into finished objects.
Those interested in learning something new can sign up for selected workshops. According to Hayy Jameel, workshops are priced at SAR 75, while Hayy Makers members can attend for free.
Live demonstrations will also give visitors a closer look at the processes behind handmade products. It is a chance to understand the time, techniques and creative thinking involved in making everything from ceramic pieces to experimental designs.
2. Shop For Handmade Finds At The Makers Market
Visitors who enjoy discovering independent brands should make time for the Makers Market.
Hosted by Fenaa Hayy, the marketplace will bring together local makers and brands selling handcrafted products. Instead of browsing the usual retail collections, shoppers can explore pieces made by independent creatives and discover products with their own individual designs.
The market also gives smaller creative businesses an opportunity to introduce their work to a wider audience.
Alongside the market, the Makers Matters Showcase will display handmade creations, experimental prototypes and projects by local makers. Visitors can explore different approaches to design and craftsmanship while getting a closer look at emerging creative talent.
Both the market and showcase are part of the free-entry programme.
3. Children Can Join The Mini Makers Activities
Makers Matters is not limited to adults. Hayy Explorers will host Mini Makers, a programme of creative activities for children aged 6 to 15.
The sessions are designed to introduce younger visitors to making and creative expression through engaging activities. Children can explore different ways of working with ideas and materials in an environment that encourages curiosity.
Mini Makers activities are free, although registration is required. Hayy Jameel has indicated that registration details will be announced separately.
Families can also explore other spaces within the cultural centre, making the event a suitable option for those planning a group visit.
4. Visit Jameel Library And Hayy Cinema
There is more to the programme than workshops and shopping. Jameel Library will host portfolio sessions, alongside reading and writing circles for visitors interested in literature and creative learning.
Hayy Cinema will also join the event with film screenings, adding another activity to the three-day programme.
These activities offer visitors different ways to engage with art and culture, whether they prefer visual exhibitions, creative discussions, reading or cinema.
With several activities taking place across Hayy Jameel, visitors can plan their visit around their interests rather than following a fixed schedule.
5. Discover Hayy Jameel, Jeddah’s Creative Hub
The venue itself is worth exploring. Hayy Jameel is a cultural complex developed by Art Jameel in Jeddah. Covering approximately 17,000 square metres, the centre brings together exhibition spaces, creative studios, educational facilities, a cinema and other cultural spaces.
Its name comes from the Arabic word ‘Hayy’, which means neighbourhood. The concept reflects its role as a place where artists, creative organisations and the wider community can meet and exchange ideas.
Art Jameel also operates Jameel Arts Centre in Dubai, which opened in 2018. This connection gives the event an added regional interest for UAE residents who follow the Gulf’s growing arts and cultural scene.
Makers Matters offers more than a weekend shopping experience. It gives independent Saudi makers a platform to display their work, connect with visitors and introduce their products to potential customers.
For UAE residents, particularly those visiting Jeddah, the fair offers another cultural experience to add to their travel plans. Its mix of handmade shopping, exhibitions, workshops and family activities also makes it relevant to visitors travelling with children.
The event supports visibility for local creative businesses while encouraging interest in traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. Visitors can also explore the wider Hayy Jameel complex during their trip.
Plan Your Visit To Makers Matters 2026
- Where: Fenaa, Hayy Makers, Ground Floor, Hayy Jameel, Arwa bint Abdulmutalib Street, Al Muhammadiyah District, Jeddah.
- When: 12 November, 6 pm to 11 pm; 13 and 14 November, 3 pm to 11 pm.
- Entry: Free general admission.
- Workshops: SAR 75, free for Hayy Makers members.
- Children’s activities: Free Mini Makers activities for ages 6–15, with registration required.
- Registration: Through Hayy Jameel’s official event registration page.
Visitors should check the official event programme before arriving for the latest workshop schedules and registration details.
FAQs
1. When is Makers Matters 2026 taking place in Jeddah?
Makers Matters runs from 12 to 14 November 2026 at Hayy Jameel. The event operates from 6 pm to 11 pm on 12 November and from 3 pm to 11 pm on 13 and 14 November.
2. Is entry to Makers Matters free?
Yes, general admission is free. However, selected creative workshops cost SAR 75. Hayy Makers members can attend these workshops for free.
3. Is Makers Matters suitable for children?
Yes. Hayy Explorers will host Mini Makers activities for children aged 6 to 15. The programme is free, with registration required.
4. What can visitors do at Makers Matters?
Visitors can explore handmade exhibitions, shop at the Makers Market, attend creative workshops, watch demonstrations, join children’s activities and enjoy film screenings at Hayy Cinema.
5. Where is Makers Matters being held?
The event takes place at Hayy Jameel in the Al Muhammadiyah District of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
From handmade shopping and creative workshops to children’s activities and film screenings, Makers Matters offers plenty to explore over three days. With free general admission, it is an accessible way to discover Saudi Arabia’s independent makers and creative community this November.
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