Sotheby’s to Host First International Auction in KSA

Sotheby’s announces its inaugural auction in Saudi Arabia, an unprecedented event marking the first international auction in the Kingdom. Titled “Origins”, the auction will take place on February 8, 2025, featuring a diverse array of Sotheby’s global offerings, designed to captivate both new and seasoned collectors. The two-part evening auction will include fine art from celebrated Saudi artists and renowned international figures, as well as an extensive showcase of luxury items, from jewellery and watches to cars, sports memorabilia, and handbags. A free, public exhibition will be held from February 1-8, offering visitors a week-long celebration of art, luxury, and culture.

The auction and exhibition will be hosted in historic Diriyah, the ancestral heart of Saudi Arabia, where the First Saudi State was founded nearly two centuries before Sotheby’s own establishment in 1744. Now a centre for the Kingdom’s evolution as a cultural hub, Diriyah has hosted numerous high-profile events while preserving its heritage. Sotheby’s choice of this iconic location reflects its commitment to showcasing the Kingdom’s rich history alongside international art and luxury.

This auction follows Sotheby’s recent incorporation in Saudi Arabia and the opening of its new office in Riyadh’s landmark Al Faisaliah Tower. Together, these steps underscore Sotheby’s long-term dedication to the region, marking an exciting new chapter in its engagement with the Middle Eastern art and luxury market.