By Tim Frazer
RIYADH – The historic city of Diriyah, located just northwest of Riyadh, is undergoing a rapid transformation into a global cultural and tourism hub as part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 initiative. Diriyah Company, the developer behind the $63 billion giga-project, is accelerating efforts to prepare the capital for hosting Expo 2030, with recent contracts signaling a surge in development activity. This week, Diriyah Company awarded two significant contracts to advance the project. A $1.53 billion deal with China Harbour Engineering will see the construction of the 20,000-seat Diriyah Arena, a state-of-the-art venue designed by London’s HKS architects, alongside three office towers. The arena, inspired by the intricate motifs of Najdi forts and palaces, aims to position Diriyah as a leading destination for sports and cultural events in the Middle East. A separate $600 million contract was awarded to a unit of Italy’s Webuild Group to develop 400 retail units in Diriyah Square, the commercial heart of the project, which will blend traditional Najdi architecture with modern luxury retail and dining experiences.
Diriyah, often referred to as “The City of Earth,” holds profound historical significance as the birthplace of the First Saudi State in 1727 and the ancestral home of the Al Saud dynasty. At its core lies the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, a meticulously preserved mud-brick city that serves as the centerpiece of the development. The project spans 14 square kilometers and is designed to attract 50 million visitors annually by 2030, contributing an estimated $18.6 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP and creating 178,000 jobs.
Recent developments highlight Diriyah’s blend of heritage and modernity. The Qurain Cultural District and Northern District, unveiled in November 2024, will feature cultural assets such as museums, a cinema, academies for Najdi architecture and Arab music, and luxury hotels like the Ritz-Carlton Diriyah and Capella Diriyah. The Northern District will also house the King Salman Foundation, a university, and a public square, transforming Diriyah into a global hub for scholars and creatives.
Diriyah Square, set to open later this year, will serve as a vibrant lifestyle destination, connecting global retail brands with local artisan souks. The project incorporates smart city technologies, pedestrian-friendly designs, and sustainability initiatives, including the planting of 6.5 million native trees and shrubs along Wadi Hanifah to create a green oasis. These efforts align with Vision 2030’s goals of economic diversification and environmental sustainability.
The development also emphasizes cultural engagement. The At-Turaif site, already open to visitors, offers immersive experiences through galleries and guided tours led by young Saudi guides, including Princess Al-Jawhara Abdulmohsin Al-Saud. The JAX District, a creative hub, hosts art galleries, studios, and events like the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, fostering a thriving artistic ecosystem.
With construction intensifying and international partners like Mace, the company behind London’s The Shard, contributing expertise, Diriyah is poised to redefine Riyadh’s cultural landscape. “Diriyah is not just a tourism destination; it’s a global gathering place that celebrates Saudi Arabia’s rich history while embracing its future,” said Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company.
As Saudi Arabia prepares for Expo 2030 and the opening of the new King Salman International Airport, Diriyah’s transformation is a testament to the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a leading global destination for culture, tourism, and innovation.
