African safari-style luxury resort, Nofa Riyadh by Radisson Collection sets the stage for a weekend of curated food stalls, retail pop-ups, immersive art workshops, and live performances by local and international artists.
This fall, Nofa Riyadh, a Radisson Collection Resort, in collaboration with Raw Escapes, presents IKONI, a unique festival blending music, arts, wellness, and culture. The festival features two distinct experiences: The Retreat and The Music Festival, offering guests a luxurious escape into Afro-Arabic heritage and creativity, set against the stunning landscapes of a luxury safari oasis, just under an hour from the city center.
The Retreat: Music, Wellness, and Nature
The IKONI Retreat offers an immersive overnight experience designed to rejuvenate mind, body, and soul. The retreat begins with a welcome dinner at Tswalu, followed by an intimate bonfire music session with internationally acclaimed French-Mexican artist Leonardo Prakash, who will perform a series of melodic soundscapes, creating a captivating atmosphere around the fire.
The next morning, as the sun rises, guests will witness a breathtaking hot air balloon ride featuring a live DJ set by local artist DJ Menergy and friends, providing a surreal soundtrack high above Nofa Riyadh’s serene landscapes. Alternatively, guests can partake in a Hatha Yoga session and sound healing led by expert healers in the lush garden.
Following these morning activities, guests will indulge in a vibrant outdoor breakfast inspired by Arabic and African flavors, set amidst nature’s beauty. The retreat will conclude with a thrilling animal safari, allowing participants to explore the wildlife reserve and encounter Nofa’s incredible fauna, including lions, zebras, and rare golden tigers.
The Music Festival: A Celebration of Afro-Arabic Culture
Beginning at 5:00 PM, the IKONI Music Festival invites guests to dive into an afternoon of creativity with hands-on workshops and live art. Festival-goers can explore interactive activities like pottery and dreamcatcher weaving, or join two talented local artists in creating a live, tufted rug featuring the powerful African symbol, “Funtumfunefu Denkyemfunefu,” a representation of unity and cooperation
Festival attendees will also have the chance to explore retail pop-ups showcasing some of Saudi’s coolest homegrown brands, offering everything from artisanal crafts to unique fashion pieces.
As the evening sets in, the festival transforms with “Nocturnal Melodies,” featuring a series of electrifying DJ sets and live performances by international artists Dunes and Izadora. The lakeside venue will be illuminated by mesmerizing lights, creating a euphoric atmosphere for guests to dance beneath the stars. The festival will also showcase food stalls offering Afro-Arab inspired dishes alongside a diverse array of global cuisines, creating a true feast for the senses.
“We are excited to have created the IKONI Festival, a concept that perfectly embodies the spirit of Nofa Riyadh—a place where wellness meets culture, and nature intertwines with creativity. Our commitment to exceptional hospitality combined with our collaboration with Raw Escapes, brings something truly groundbreaking to Saudi Arabia. This festival offers guests a unique space to connect with others while disconnecting from the everyday, all through a rich celebration of Afro-Arabic heritage that engages every sense,” said Anna-Marie Dowling, General Manager of Nofa Riyadh.
Dani Bogaei, Founder of Raw Escapes, added, “IKONI is more than a festival—it’s a retreat for the soul. By combining wellness, music, and art, we’ve created a space where people can connect with themselves, each other, and the rich culture surrounding them. It’s going to be a transformative experience.”
Pricing and Tickets
● The Retreat – Overnight experience inclusive of all meals, yoga and sound healing sessions, and the safari
o SAR1,979 (VAT inclusive) per person for 2 adults in One-Bedroom Bungalow / SAR3,959 for 2 adults
o SAR1,746 (VAT inclusive) per person for 4 adults in a Two-Bedroom Terrace /SAR6,987 for 4 adults
o SAR1876 (VAT inclusive) per person for 5 adults in a Three-Bedroom Terrace Villa / SAR9,380 for 5 adults
● The Music Festival – Evening experience inclusive of festival entry, live art sessions, workshops, performances, and access to retail pop-ups and food trucks.
o SAR 480 per person
o SAR 820 couple tickets
For more information and bookings, please visit https://raw-escapes.com/product/ikoni-festival/ , call +966598996238
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