Christie’s, a leader in the global art and luxury market, has officially been granted a commercial license to operate in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in the auction house’s regional expansion. With a deep commitment to promoting art and culture in the Middle East, Christie’s appointed Nour Kelani as Managing Director for the Kingdom, a role in which she will spearhead client services and bolster relationships with collectors in Saudi Arabia and across the region.
Kelani, an established figure in Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape, brings extensive expertise from her previous work with Ayyam Gallery and her own consultancy. She is celebrated for her pivotal role in nurturing the contemporary art scene and for organizing the Ayyam Gallery ‘Young Collector’s Auction’ in Saudi Arabia. Kelani’s work in the region has earned her significant recognition, including being named a Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Ministry of Culture.
A New Chapter for Christie’s in Saudi Arabia
Anthea Peers, President of Christie’s Europe, Middle East, and Africa, expressed excitement about the expansion: “We are honored to be welcomed into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and look forward to supporting the region’s ongoing cultural growth. This move represents an important step forward for Christie’s, allowing us to build on our long-established relationships with clients and foster new connections with the next generation of collectors.”
With this expansion, Christie’s becomes the first dedicated international auction house to establish a permanent presence in Saudi Arabia. This is the second location in the Gulf region for Christie’s, following the establishment of their Dubai office in 2005. The auction house is known for pioneering auctions of Modern and Contemporary Middle Eastern Art, having first held such an event in the UAE in 2006.
Building on a Strong Legacy
Christie’s move into Saudi Arabia comes at a time when the country is actively developing its cultural infrastructure. Recent cultural initiatives, such as the 2024 Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, have highlighted Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a global hub for contemporary art. Christie’s played an active role in this year’s Biennale, participating in discussions and events to further engage the art community.
Dr. Ridha Moumni, Chairman of Christie’s Middle East and Africa, views the establishment of Christie’s in Saudi Arabia as a historic moment, one that signifies the auction house’s deep commitment to the region. “With the appointment of Nour Kelani and our continued partnerships with collectors, institutions, and art professionals, Christie’s is poised to become a central player in Saudi Arabia’s vibrant art and luxury markets,” Moumni remarked.
Fostering Future Growth
Nour Kelani’s appointment as Managing Director signals Christie’s ambition to strengthen its role within the Kingdom’s growing cultural ecosystem. Kelani expressed her enthusiasm for the new role: “I am honored to join Christie’s at such a pivotal time. I look forward to working with the incredible collectors, institutions, and art professionals in Saudi Arabia to continue fostering a vibrant and collaborative art scene.”
Christie’s recent partnership with leading Saudi institutions, including their involvement in Ahmed Mater’s Chronicles exhibition at their London headquarters, further underscores their commitment to elevating Saudi artists on the global stage. The exhibition featured over 100 works by the prominent Saudi artist, drawing praise from critics and audiences alike.
Christie’s entry into Saudi Arabia is poised to reshape the Kingdom’s art market, bringing global attention to the region’s rich cultural heritage. As Nour Kelani steps into her role, she will focus on creating opportunities for collaboration, representation of diverse art histories, and nurturing relationships with both seasoned collectors and emerging art enthusiasts.
