Yabous Cultural Centre – Reviving Arts in Jerusalem

Palestinian art hub in East Jerusalem showcasing contemporary creativity and resilience

Overview

The Yabous Cultural Centre is one of the most prominent cultural institutions in East Jerusalem, dedicated to strengthening Palestinian identity through the performing arts.

Established in the 1990s and named after the ancient Jebusite name for Jerusalem, Yabous transformed the historic Cinema al-Quds building on Salah al-Din Street into a vibrant hub for music, film, theater, and festivals. Today, it serves as a gathering place for artists, intellectuals, and audiences eager to experience Palestinian creativity in the heart of the city.

Cultural and Community Role

Yabous plays a vital role in sustaining cultural life under occupation, offering Palestinians access to concerts, film screenings, and workshops that might otherwise be out of reach. It has hosted international musicians, Arab filmmakers, and local theater troupes, building cultural bridges while preserving Palestinian artistic expression.

Beyond performances, Yabous provides training opportunities for youth and emerging artists, ensuring that Jerusalem continues to nurture the next generation of cultural leaders. The center’s very existence in East Jerusalem is a statement of resilience and the importance of art as a tool of identity and resistance.

What to Experience

Attend concerts, theater productions, or film screenings in a historic venue.

Explore Palestinian and Arab cinema during special festivals hosted at Yabous.

Participate in workshops and educational programs designed for youth and artists.

Experience a hub that brings together local and international cultural voices.


Visitor Information

Location: Al Zahra Street, East Jerusalem
Hours: Vary by program (check event schedule)
Contact: +972-2-628-3808 | info@yabous.org
Entry: Ticketed for events; some community programs free
Note: Programs often sell out quickly; advance booking recommended