Diriyah: Saudi Arabia's historic town transforms into a global cultural hub

 

Diriyah: Saudi Arabia's historic town transforms into a global cultural hub

Diriyah, a historic town northwest of Riyadh, is undergoing a remarkable transformation into a global cultural and tourist destination. Recognized as the capital of Arab culture for 2030, Diriyah is steeped in centuries-old heritage and captivating architecture, making it a significant open-air museum.

Established in 1446 AD along the banks of Wadi Hanifa, Diriyah holds a special place in Saudi Arabia's history as the capital of the first state founded by Imam Mohammad bin Saud in 1727. The town's Al Turaif District, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features Salwa Palace, a 10,000-square meter complex that served as the seat of power in the first Saudi state.

 

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In 2017, the Saudi government established the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) to spearhead the restoration and development of Diriyah. The ambitious Diriyah Gate project, covering 14 square kilometers, includes significant landmarks such as King Salman Square, the Samhan Amphitheatre, the Heroes Memorial Plaza, the Mosque Square, and the Historical Village.

The project also encompasses an art district housing five academies showcasing Arabic calligraphy, Islamic arts, Najdi architecture, local cuisine, Arabian music, and theatre. Plans include eight museums, a 15,000-seat cultural performance center, sporting venues, souks, a 3.5-kilometer walking path overlooking Wadi Hanifa, and numerous residences and offices.

 

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The Royal Diriyah Opera House, a cultural landmark designed by Snøhetta, is set to grace the historic quarters. With a footprint of 45,000 square meters, the opera house blends traditional Najdi architecture with modern aesthetics, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.

Developers emphasize the importance of preserving the authentic character of Diriyah while introducing modern constructions. Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of the Diriyah Gate Project, notes that Diriyah sets the benchmark for sustainable development, respecting local traditions.

 

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Saudi Arabia aims to attract 100 million tourists by 2030, and Diriyah is poised to play a crucial role, expecting around 27 million visitors annually. The Diriyah project is seen as a catalyst for strategic sectors, creating job opportunities and unlocking investment potentials. With completion expected by 2030, Diriyah is set to become the largest cultural heritage site globally, supported by the vision and efforts of Saudi leaders.

Source: https://gulfnews.com/