The Ship of Tolerance initiative in Jeddah brought together more than 800 students to explore tolerance, acceptance and cultural understanding through artistic expression 

Jeddah, Apr 1, 2026: More than 800 students from 10 partner schools across Jeddah participated in The Ship of Tolerance initiative to explore tolerance, acceptance and cultural understanding through artistic expression. Stellar Education has partnered with ATHR Foundation to bring The Ship of Tolerance initiative to Jeddah. 

The collaborative artworks from diverse national and international schools in Jeddah formed the sails of the 14-metre vessel, standing 20 metres high, symbolising unity and shared humanity through collective expression. 

The participating schools included Dar Al Fikr Schools, Nahda Academy, Nun Academy, Sherborne School Jeddah, Afaq Academy for Fine Arts & Culture, Manarat Jeddah International Schools, Green Hills International Schools, Al Andalus International Schools, International Philippine School in Jeddah and American International School of Jeddah. 

The 20th edition of the renowned artistic initiative conceived by artists Ilya and Emilia Kabakov is the first to be presented in Saudi Arabia. Its arrival in Jeddah marked a significant cultural and educational milestone for the Kingdom, aligned with the guiding theme: ‘Rooted in Our Values. Connected to the World.’ 

Presented internationally in cities, including Venice, Sharjah, London and New York, the project fostered understanding among children through art and music.  

Organised locally by ATHR Foundation in partnership with Stellar Education and supported by the Office of the Governor of Jeddah, and the Jeddah Historic District, the initiative reflected the city’s growing commitment to cultural dialogue, youth empowerment and meaningful educational experiences. Its alignment with Saudi Arabia’s 2025 ‘Year of the Handicrafts’ further reinforced the project’s role in celebrating craftsmanship, heritage and creative collaboration. 

“At Stellar, we believe education extends beyond curriculum. The Ship of Tolerance represented experiential learning in action, empowering students to practice empathy, collaboration and global citizenship in a real-world context,” said a Stellar spokesperson.  

A local identity with global dialogue 

In Jeddah, the project took on a distinctive character shaped by the city’s maritime heritage and multicultural fabric. Local artisans collaborated with the Kabakov shipbuilding team to construct the vessel, reinforcing a powerful connection between craftsmanship, community and contemporary art. 

The ship was unveiled in Al-Balad, Jeddah’s UNESCO-recognised historic district, during Ramadan 2026.  

The opening programme featured a series of student-led performances reflecting the spirit of the initiative. Nahda Academy wrote and composed the Ship of Tolerance Jeddah song, which was presented during the ceremony. Nun Academy delivered the Song of Peace, while Afaq Academy for Fine Arts & Culture presented a theatrical interpretation centred around the theme of tolerance. Additional performances, including musical and cultural expressions from participating schools, underscored the diversity and unity that defined the project.