Azimuth 2023

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over AlUla's rugged canyons. With the glittering promise of an unforgettable weekend ahead, thousands of eager spectators descended between the rocks for the concert of a lifetime.

Azimuth 2023 was suitably bursting at the seams with huge moments: Peggy Gou gave a DJ set to remember; Brit band The Kooks sang their indie hits under a canopy of stars; and Chet Faker made his presence felt between the towering cliffs. So many favourite moments across two days and nights of unforgettable performances. As the glitter settles on this year’s one-of-a-kind festival, it’s time to reflect on a sleepless but brilliant weekend.

The lineup read like a music lover's dream. Soulful R&B singer Jorja Smith, Egyptian rock sensation Cairokee, and dance-floor-filling Nooriyah topped the bill. Shkoon, Ame & Dixon, Saint Levant, Thievery Corporation, and Tinariwen added their unique magic to the mix. Australian indie rockers Dope Lemon and singer RY X brought their distinct vibes. And the regional acts, from Cosmicat to Baloo kept the energy flowing.

For those who pride themselves on early adoption, Azimuth was a revelation. A world-music paradise that showcased dozens of artists from across the planet. From emerging Saudi artists to global icons, pulsating techno, chart-topping anthems, and soul-soothing tunes filled the air, creating an electric atmosphere that reverberated throughout the valley from sunset to sunrise. But it’s the landscape that makes Azimuth so unique. Cradled within the breathtaking cliffs of AlUla, festivalgoers wandered between creative artistic installations, past homegrown food pop-ups, before heading towards the concert stage to dance until the sun came up. It was like stepping into a vibrant, otherworldly realm where music and art seamlessly combined.

Azimuth was not just a festival; it was an extraordinary journey. A celebration of music, art and culture unlike anything that’s come before it. And that was only the beginning…