Maya Al Athel is a Saudi Arabian curator and cultural entrepreneur whose work focuses on the intersection of public engagement, cultural strategy, and curatorial innovation. With over eight years of experience in the cultural sector, she has led the development of landmark projects and institutions in Saudi Arabia, championing the role of culture in fostering dialogue, identity, and international exchange.
She is the founder of Almanac Collective, a Riyadh-based consultancy specializing in the conceptualization, development, and execution of curated cultural programs. Through Almanac, Al Athel collaborates with both emerging and established organizations to design experiences that are locally grounded and globally relevant.
Prior to founding Almanac, Al Athel served as the Artistic Manager of Noor Riyadh, the world’s largest light art festival, where she helped shape the artistic direction of its inaugural editions. She has played a key role in the formation of several Saudi cultural bodies, including being a founding member of the General Entertainment Authority and supporting the establishment of the Visual Arts Council at the General Culture Authority. Her contributions also extend to cultural policy and international representation, having led cultural diplomacy at the Saudi Embassy in Washington, DC and guided the Visitor Experience Unit at the Ministry of Tourism.
Al Athel’s early career included positions at world-renowned institutions such as Christie’s, New York University Abu Dhabi, and the Saatchi Gallery, where she gained experience in art market dynamics, academic research, and exhibition curation.
She holds dual master’s degrees: an MA in Innovation Management and Curation from Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London, and an MA in Anthropology from University College London (UCL). Her academic foundation enriches her curatorial practice with a deep understanding of social context, material culture, and audience behavior.
With a vision grounded in accessibility, creativity, and impact, Maya Al Athel continues to be a driving force behind Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural landscape—bridging heritage and experimentation through thoughtful, collaborative practice.
