AlUla Rawis Bring Ancient Storytelling Tradition to Paris 

The ancient storytelling tradition of AlUla is getting a global platform through a new photography exhibition at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris. Titled “I am a Rawi: Sharing Stories from AlUla,” the exhibition features the people who are helping keep the region’s heritage alive through storytelling. 

The AlUla are trained cultural interpreters who introduce visitors to the history and traditions of the ancient oasis in northwest Saudi Arabia. The Arabic word “rawi” means storyteller, and the role has traditionally involved passing down stories, poetry, victories and family histories through generations. 

The exhibition, which runs until the end of August, highlights the work and everyday experiences of the rawis:through photographs by British photographer Nick Jackson. Having lived in AlUla, Jackson spent time getting to know the storytellers and captured their work beyond formal presentations. 

The project is part of a wider effort by the Royal Commission for AlUla and UNESCO to develop a Live Museum model. 

The Rawi Program was launched in 2019 as part of AlUla’s wider goal of becoming a living museum where people remain central to the heritage experience. Thirty-two rawis:were selected and trained as part of the program, creating a new cultural role rooted in the region’s traditional storytelling practices. 

Training has also taken the Rawis beyond AlUla. They have visited places including Sedona in Arizona, the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris. Six Rawi leaders also attended UNESCO’s Intercultural Training Week in Paris last year. 

Their work has led to new ways of sharing stories with visitors. One example is Qissa bi Qissa, meaning “swap a story,” which combines personal storytelling with heritage objects such as traditional coffee pots and incense burners. 

The initiative was first tested in February 2026 at Huna in AlUla’s Old Town. It is scheduled to become a weekly program from Saudi National Day on September 23, with different themes introduced throughout the year. 

The exhibition in Paris gives the AlUla rawis an opportunity to present their cultural role to an international audience while showing how traditional storytelling can continue in a modern heritage setting.