Aqaba:The 13th Art and Beauty Forum concluded in Aqaba on Sunday evening, uniting 65 artists from various Arab countries, including Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Palestine, Libya, Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Syria, Tunisia, and Iraq. This cultural event celebrated artistic expression and Arab heritage.
According to Jordan News Agency, the forum was organized by the Ayla Association for Culture and Arts at the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort under the theme "Art Brings Us Together." It aimed to strengthen cultural ties among Arab artists and showcase Jordan's artistic, historical, and tourism attractions through visual arts.
The closing ceremony was attended by Aqaba Deputy Governor and District Administrator Ahmad Al-Suhaim, representing the governor, alongside Aqaba Culture Director Tareq Badour, heads of official departments, and civil society organizations, as well as local cultural and artistic figures. Al-Suhaim viewed artworks produced during the forum, which highlighted the diversity of artistic styles and techniques.
Artists' work was inspired by field visits to archaeological and tourist sites, organized to promote Jordan's tourism potential. Al-Suhaim emphasized the role of such gatherings in fostering Arab cooperation and enhancing Aqaba's profile as a destination for culture, art, and tourism.
Badour noted that the forum revitalizes cultural and tourism activities, presenting Jordan's beauty through the artists' creative perspectives. He highlighted the Golden Triangle, encompassing Aqaba, Wadi Rum, and Petra, as a rich source of artistic inspiration.
Forum Director Ali Kreishan stated that the event provides a platform for Arab artists to present their creativity and strengthen bonds among artists across the region. He noted the success of previous editions and this year's theme, focusing on Jordan's history and heritage.
The forum included visits to Petra and Wadi Rum, allowing participants to explore and capture Jordan's cultural and tourism assets through diverse artistic interpretations. Supported by Sama Ayla for Exhibition Organization and Aqaba Transport Company, the forum is held periodically across several Jordanian governorates, including Irbid, Madaba, Amman, and Aqaba.