MADINAH MUNAWWARA: The Islamic University of Madinah hosted the 14th edition of the Cultures and Peoples Festival 2026, bringing together students from across the world in a vibrant celebration of global unity and cultural diversity. The annual festival reflects the unique spirit of Madinah where people from different nationalities, languages, and ethnic backgrounds gather making it one of the most distinctive cultural highlights of the year for both residents and visitors.
Students studying at the university on scholarships represented their home countries through engaging cultural displays featuring traditional clothing, authentic cuisines, handicrafts, and heritage presentations. The festival provided a lively platform for learning, discovery, and meaningful cultural exchange, allowing attendees to experience the richness of global traditions in an interactive and welcoming environment.
More than 95 countries were represented at the festival, with innovative VR experiences enabling visitors to virtually explore the streets and cultural landscapes of participating nations. This unique initiative allowed attendees to experience the diversity of the world in a single day, strengthening cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. Speaking on the occasion, Abdullatif Alshanqiti highlighted the festival’s important role in promoting cultural dialogue and creating unforgettable international cultural experiences.
