Starbucks celebrates this Saudi National Day with a limited-edition cup and artistic journey through heritage

On Saudi National Day, Starbucks, a regional enterprise managed by Alshaya Group, unveils a limited edition paper cup adorned with designs inspired by Saudi heritage and culture. This commemorative cup showcases unique elements such as Sadu patterns, the Kingdom's diverse landscapes, and architectural motifs. To create the cup's artwork, Starbucks collaborated with a group of talented Saudi artists who embarked on immersive experiences across the country, capturing the essence of the nation's history and traditions.

These artists, including photographers, muralists, and weavers, documented their journey in an engaging social media series, illustrating how Saudi heritage continues to influence contemporary creativity. One such artist, Moath Alofi, a well-known contemporary photographer, shared his reflections on the significance of National Day. He expressed that it provides an opportunity to reflect on the Kingdom's rich heritage and natural beauty, conveying this connection through visual storytelling.

Another artist, Noura Binsaidan, a mural artist, collaborated with expert artisan Lahda Alanzi at The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts to learn the craft and narratives behind Sadu weaving. Noura shared her excitement about the National Day celebration, stating that it is about honoring traditions and embracing the future. She expressed her delight in sharing the journey of exploration and creativity through the medium of Sadu weaving.

Heba Ismail, another artist contributing to the National Day campaign, focused on the intricate craftsmanship of Najdi architecture. She described her experience as a journey of discovery, celebrating not only the structures but also the stories within them. Heba expressed her desire to honor the past while pushing the boundaries of creativity.

Each artist's unique perspective and experiences are transformed into original artwork, forming a narrative loop from the symbol on the cup to a modern interpretation of the stories behind it. This artwork will be displayed later in the year, inviting everyone to follow Starbucks on Instagram for updates on this exciting exhibition. This campaign marks the celebration of Saudi heritage while also serving as a platform for new generations of creatives to continue carrying these stories forward.