Calling all artists, designers, makers, performers, creative entrepreneurs, photographers, storytellers, fashion brands, culinary concepts and more!

Hayy Matsuri returns for its fourth edition on January 7 – 9, 2027 under the theme Wabi-Sabi (a Japanese art philosophy) and the Art of Play, celebrating local culture, craftsmanship, creativity and innovation across all art forms

Over the years, Hayy Matsuri has grown into a space for discovery, exchange and creative encounters, where tradition and contemporary design can be experienced in new and interactive ways. Across three days, the public programme will feature exclusive music performances, film screenings, art installations, culinary experiences, handicrafts, fashion and design, lifestyle, games, cosplay and storytelling for everyone

The festival will explore Wabi-Sabi and the Art of Play: two concepts that interconnect and encourage us to embrace imperfection, simplicity and find beauty in the everyday, making space for curiosity, spontaneity and joy

We welcome proposals from the creative community inspired by the theme(s), interpreting them in their own ways to create new and meaningful experiences promoting cross-cultural exchange, creativity, experimentation and collaboration

Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the festival!

Apply by October 6, 2026

Application guidelines:

• Please apply before the deadline. Any incomplete applications will not be considered
• Proposals must be inspired by, interpret and/or reflect on either the theme of Wabi Sabi and/or the Art of Play in a creative way
• Submissions should be original works, ideas and concepts – we’re looking for new and interactive experiences, artistic practices and cross-cultural exchanges celebrating Saudi/Gulf and Japanese tradition, creativity and collaboration
• Shortlisted applicants will receive a participation confirmation email from the Art Jameel team in November 2026

Terms & Conditions

• Submission does not guarantee participation
• Applications will be reviewed based on the evaluation criteria (thematic relevance, originality and quality, materiality and sustainable-driven approaches as well as public engagement element)
• Selected participants may be asked to provide additional information before confirmation
• Selected participants are responsible for the transport of their works/products to and from Hayy Jameel