Pakistani Ambassador Ahmad Farooq has presented 18 Diriyah Paintings in Riyadh, celebrating Saudi Arabia’s history and cultural heritage. The exhibition, titled “Diriyah: Past and Present,” reflects his personal appreciation of the Kingdom’s historic birthplace. Through the collection, Farooq offers his artistic interpretation of a place closely connected to Saudi identity.
The exhibition opened on Tuesday and attracted diplomats, officials, artists and other guests. Among those attending was Prince Sultan bin Salman Al-Saud, who welcomed the initiative. He also highlighted the longstanding relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
Prince Sultan described the exhibition as more than a cultural event. He said both countries shared a strong relationship that would continue into the future. Furthermore, he praised Farooq’s decision to focus his artwork on Diriyah.
Prince Sultan explained that he had followed Diriyah’s development and heritage for approximately 40 years. He described the ambassador’s artistic tribute as a meaningful gesture. He also mentioned plans to visit another part of Saudi Arabia with Farooq.
The collection includes paintings of At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Wadi Hanifa. These locations reflect Diriyah’s historical importance and its distinctive natural and architectural character. Moreover, the exhibition highlights the area’s connection to the origins of the Saudi state.
Farooq said his interest in Diriyah developed through learning about its history and preservation. In particular, he credited King Salman’s work as governor of Riyadh Region with inspiring the project. He said the King’s efforts to protect the area’s heritage encouraged him to create the collection.
The ambassador also connected his artistic vision with the wider transformation of Diriyah. He highlighted the influence of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Their vision for the area helped shape the themes behind his paintings.
Farooq began working on the collection in 2023 and completed it over three years. During that period, he balanced his artistic commitments with his diplomatic responsibilities. His 18 artworks explore Diriyah’s significance across both Saudi history and its future development.
Australian Ambassador Miles Armitage also attended the exhibition and praised Farooq’s initiative. He described the collection as a thoughtful expression of the ambassador’s affection for Saudi Arabia. Additionally, he highlighted the paintings of At-Turaif and Bujairi Terrace among his personal favourites.
Armitage said the artworks captured Diriyah’s lively atmosphere alongside its peaceful character. He added that visitors could recognise these qualities when exploring the historic destination. Consequently, the exhibition offered guests an artistic perspective on a place many diplomats enjoy visiting.
The presentation of Diriyah Paintings also demonstrated how art can strengthen cultural connections between countries. By choosing a significant Saudi heritage destination, Farooq brought his appreciation of the Kingdom into a diplomatic setting. The exhibition therefore celebrated both Diriyah’s historical importance and the continuing friendship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
