Latest news with #Diriyah


The National
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The National
Saudi Arabia's Diriyah Art Futures named one of the world's most beautiful museums
Diriyah Art Futures has been named one of the world's most beautiful museums. It is the first space in Saudi Arabia dedicated to digital art and emerging technologies, and was listed by the Prix Versailles, which recognises achievements in architecture and interior design. The museum, in the town of Diriyah near Riyadh, was designed by Italian architects Schiattarella Associati. It is one of seven museums selected globally for the 2025 award, and the only one from the region. Others recognised include the Grand Palais in Paris, Kunstsilo in Kristiansand, Norway, and Bali's Saka Museum. Diriyah Art Futures' architecture has been praised for its sensitive integration with the surrounding landscape, drawing from traditional Najdi heritage while embracing contemporary sensibilities and the future-facing spirit of its curatorial programme. The museum is not a single building, instead unfolding across a series of sculptural pavilions, housing galleries, research labs and an auditorium. It also has a new media library and a bookstore. The distinct spaces are connected through shaded passageways that echo the rhythm of historical desert settlements. 'We wanted the architecture to feel as though it emerged from the earth,' the architects said. 'This is our approach to design: harnessing natural values to create a contemporary language that resonates deeply with the location.' The recognition is a milestone for Saudi Arabia's cultural architecture. Prix Versailles was established in 2015, with the support of Unesco. It celebrates architecture that makes a cultural, ecological and social impact. Prix Versailles named Zayed International Airport the world's most beautiful airport in 2024.


Arab News
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Immersive ‘Diriyah experience' to open in London's Knightsbridge
JEDDAH: A pavilion hoping to attract investment in the development of historic Diriyah will open in London's prestigious Knightsbridge borough next month. The Diriyah Experience House, at One Hyde Park, will feature the project masterplan for the city, which is projected to welcome more than 50 million visitors annually by 2030. Interactive content will allow visitors to explore the scheme in more detail. Jerry Inzerillo, group CEO of Diriyah Company, said: 'We are thrilled to launch the Diriyah Experience House in the heart of London. Through this global platform, our team will share the story of Diriyah in a way that reflects its stature on the world stage — supporting our international outreach as we build one of the world's most iconic destinations rooted in the Kingdom's deep history and rich cultural heritage.' The pavilion is set to have its official opening in early July, in collaboration with Sotheby's International Realty, which will operate the venue. It follows a successful month-long event held in London in July 2024, which highlighted the plans for Diriyah and was accompanied by an intensive promotional campaign across the British capital. The efforts aim to elevate Diriyah's global profile as the birthplace of Saudi Arabia and attract increased international interest in its investment potential. Diriyah Art Futures also recently concluded 'The Light Footprint' exhibition at Venice's Querini Stampalia Foundation. Held in collaboration with Italian architecture firm Schiattarella Associati, it coincided with the opening of the Venice Biennale of Architecture 2025. Curated by Marta Francocci, the exhibition explored the design and conceptual development of DAF's innovative Riyadh headquarters, an architectural landmark inspired by Najdi tradition and sustainable design. It highlighted the fusion of cultural heritage with technological advancement through models, sketches, videos and archive materials. Developed by the Saudi Museums Commission, DAF is envisioned as a global hub for art, science and education. 'The Light Footprint' was also featured in the collective exhibition, 'Intelligens Naturale, Artificiale,' curated by Carlo Ratti as part of the biennale's official program.


Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Diriyah Company launches London Experience Center at One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge
DIRIYAH: Diriyah Company is launching a new marketing initiative at one of London's most prestigious locations to showcase the project. The Diriyah House Experience Center will be hosted at One Hyde Park, a premier business address in Knightsbridge near Harrods. It will provide an immersive experience for those interested in opportunities in Diriyah, one of Saudi Arabia's giga-projects located on the outskirts of Riyadh. The Diriyah House Experience Center's official opening is scheduled for the beginning of July 2025. The center will operate as a co-branded hub operated by Sotheby's International Realty, the UK company originally founded by Sotheby's art dealers. Sotheby's International Realty has recently entered the Saudi market and chosen Diriyah as a key launchpad, already marketing branded residences for prestigious hospitality names such as The Ritz-Carlton, Corinthia, and Baccarat—all part of the landmark developments taking shape in Diriyah. The Diriyah House Experience Center will include a state-of-the-art marketing suite featuring a masterplan model and flexible model display. It will bring The City of Earth to life for a wider global audience. Diriyah Company Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo said 'We are delighted to open this high-profile and prestigious experience centre in the heart of London.' 'This prestigious London address enables us to share Diriyah's story on a global stage in a truly world-class setting, strengthening our international outreach as we build one of the world's greatest gathering places, rooted in the history, heritage and culture of the Kingdom.' George Azar, Chairman & CEO of Dubai, United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia Sotheby International Realty, added: 'We are proud to collaborate with Diriyah Company on this landmark initiative and to support the launch of the Diriyah House Experience Center at One Hyde Park. As their partners, we are pleased to offer our experience and expertise in presenting ultra-prime real estate to a global audience. With a strong foothold in the UK's super-prime market, this collaboration allows us to do what we do best — represent the world's most exceptional properties while acting as local experts with global reach. Through this partnership, we look forward to connecting discerning investors and stakeholders in the UK with the extraordinary vision and opportunities emerging in Diriyah.' The announcement of the Diriyah Experience Center follows a successful month-long activation by Diriyah Company at Harrods in London in July 2024. The campaign featured a showcase of Diriyah's masterplan models and a supporting out-of-home marketing campaign across the city. This international engagement reflects the growing global appetite for investment in The City of Earth and reinforces Diriyah's commitment to connecting with the international investment community. Located on the outskirts of Riyadh and backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, Diriyah is an integrated urban development project covering 14 square kilometers. It includes building homes for around 100,000 residents and is expected to create nearly 180,000 jobs. Its ambition is to attract approximately 50 million visits annually, contributing an estimated SAR 70 billion (£16.6 billion) to Saudi Arabia's GDP. Diriyah Company does not have any permanent establishment or a place of business in the UK. The Diriyah House Experience Center is operated by Sotheby's International Realty for the sole purpose of marketing Diriyah' s projects. About Diriyah Diriyah, Saudi Arabia's premier historical, cultural, and lifestyle destination, is a key component of Saudi Arabia's 2030 Vision. A short 15-minute drive from Riyadh's city center, this 14-square-kilometre development holds historical significance as the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, dating back to 1727. Currently being developed by Diriyah Company, Diriyah is undergoing a transformation into an authentic Najdi-style mixed-use urban community. Diriyah's centerpiece is At-Turaif, the UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 2010, showcasing the ancient adobe capital city of the First Saudi State, dating back to 1766. Upon completion, Diriyah will host 100,000 residents, workers, students, and visitors, offering a diverse range of cultural, entertainment, retail, hospitality, educational, and residential spaces. The first of those spaces include Bujairi Terrace, Riyadh's new premium dining hub with over 20 global and local restaurants and cafes that enjoy uninterrupted views of At-Turaif. Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel is the first hospitality offering in Diriyah, providing a tranquil experience with panoramic views of Wadi Hanifah. Diriyah's development provides a dynamic environment that celebrates Saudi Arabia's rich cultural history. About Diriyah Company Diriyah Company was established in 2023 and joined the Public Investment Fund's (PIF) portfolio of giga projects. The Company is responsible for developing the Diriyah project, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its foremost historical, cultural and lifestyle destination. A dynamic mixed-use developer, Diriyah Company is redefining urban planning to develop Diriyah, 'The City of Earth', while adhering to the highest design, development, and preservation standards. The company ensures Diriyah's cultural landmarks are complemented by world-class retail offerings, fine-dining experiences and leading hospitality brands. As a PIF company, its mission focuses on opportunities in development, hospitality, investment, retail and office leasing, along with strategic asset management, underscoring the commitment to ensuring successful business outcomes and sustainable growth under the strategic direction of Vision 2030. The Diriyah Company actively forges long-term partnerships to realize its vision of establishing Diriyah as one of the world's greatest gathering places. Social Handles: X | @DiriyahCo / Instagram | @diriyahco / LinkedIn | Diriyah-Company / Diriyah Company About Sotheby's International Realty: United Kingdom Sotheby's International Realty takes pride in upholding a name renowned for its expertise and successful sales of prestigious properties. Part of the Sotheby's International Realty network of 1,100 offices worldwide and 26,100 global property experts, United Kingdom Sotheby's International Realty possesses unique insights into international real estate markets. The network provides a powerful marketing and referral programme for luxury properties worldwide, which gives United Kingdom Sotheby's International Realty an unparalleled advantage in operating in the top-tier markets to represent the most luxurious homes in the UK. Building on quality and heritage, United Kingdom Sotheby's International Realty has emerged as a thought leader in the luxury property market with a singular and bespoke offering.


Arab News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Saudi theatrical show ‘Terhal' returns to Diriyah
The Ministry of Culture is to present the theatrical performance 'Terhal' from Aug. 4-25 at Mayadeen Venue in Diriyah. 'Terhal' is a pioneering Saudi production which boasts advanced lighting and visual technology, according to the Saudi Press Agency. It offers a visually captivating experience, telling the story of a young Saudi man who dreams of shaping his country's future. His journey across the Kingdom takes him through diverse landscapes and rich traditions, helping him to rediscover Saudi Arabia's cultural and natural heritage. He returns to his village at the end with renewed confidence, wisdom, and hope. The show features stunning scenes inspired by Saudi landscapes, and highlights young Saudi talents alongside renowned international performers. The second edition of 'Terhal' builds on the success of its 2023 debut which celebrated Saudi culture, from performing arts to handicrafts, traditional attire and cuisine.


Leaders
08-06-2025
- Leaders
Diriyah Celebrates Eid Al-Adha with Vibrant Festivities
The Diriyah Gate Development Authority celebrated Eid Al-Adha with a wide range of joyful, educational and entertaining events, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The festivities started after the Eid prayers, with mosques celebrating the aroma of Saudi coffee and the essence of traditional hospitality. In the afternoon, the activities of the historic At-Turaif and Al-Dhuwaihra districts began. At At-Turaif, visitors wrote their names in Diriyah script, watched stunning horse shows and identified the most famous breeds of purebred Arabian horses. Meanwhile, Adhwaihrah offered various interesting festivities across several roads such as Dirab Road, Aba Al-Qad Road (known today as Al-Qiddiya Road), and Sabaa' Al-Malaf Road. Moreover, it lunched the 'Diriyah Taste' initiative at Dirab Road to highlight authentic local flavors through a vast array of traditional dishes. At Aba Al-Qad Road, visitors enjoyed interactive traditional games and toured a special exhibition highlighting the Hajj and caravan routes that traversed Diriyah. On Sabaa' Al-Malaf Road, visitors captured cherished memories, painted henna and attended Diriyah calligraphy workshops. Related Topics: Jazan Celebrates Eid Al-Adha with 100 Entertaining Events Eid Al-Adha 2025: Your Guide to Riyadh Metro Operating Hours Eid Al-Adha 2025: Saudi Arabia Announces 4-Day Holiday for Private Sector Short link : Post Views: 3 Related Stories