Jeddah: The Sha’abanah festival celebrating Hijazi heritage drew more than 18,000 visitors to the Abadi Al-Johar Arena in Jeddah as part of the city’s pre-Ramadan festivities.

Organized by Vertex 33, the three-day event from Jan. 22-24 offered an immersive celebration of local culture, crafts, and cuisine.

The festival featured local boutiques offering oud incense and perfumes, artisanal shoes and a variety of handcrafted products from local entrepreneurs.

Visitors also enjoyed a range of artistic workshops, such as pottery and mosaic, while children engaged in scented candle-making, art activities by Global Art, and thread kneading to create keychains and home wall hangings with Ramadan themes.

A dining area served traditional Saudi cuisine, coffee, and festive Ramadan treats.