Born in Saudi Arabia, raised in Japan, and now based in the UK, Nooriyah is a DJ, audio producer, and presenter known for championing the sounds of the diaspora. She founded the SWANA-focused collective ‘Middle of Nowhere’, which hosted her debut ‘Boiler Room’—garnering over 4.5 million streams. Gaining global acclaim, she has performed at major festivals, including Glastonbury, and headlined sold-out shows across London. Her debut European tour, ‘Middle of Everywhere’, further cemented her rising influence in dance music.


Roots spotlights emerging musical voices from the region and beyond, offering a stage for talent that reflects the energy and creativity of today’s music scene. This year’s program features distinct showcases, including Sounds of Sudan and Sounds of Saudi, each highlighting powerful new interpretations of traditional styles infused with contemporary influences. Audiences can also look forward to an intimate acoustic set featuring local Qatari performers alongside artists from across the Middle East. From soulful storytelling to genre-blending innovation, Roots invites you to explore the diverse soundscapes shaping the cultural heartbeat of the region and to discover the artists who are defining its future.