Diriyah Company has revealed plans for a new Arena with a seating capacity of 20,000, which will be a part of the $63 billion Gigaproject master plan situated on the outskirts of Riyadh.
The designs, presented by HKS architects based in London, feature a 76,000 square meter arena encompassed by an urban park.
Arena in Diriyah’s design is inspired by the appearance of traditional Najdi forts and palaces, merging Saudi heritage with contemporary style.
The goal is for the arena to become a leading venue in the Middle East, hosting notable sporting and cultural events upon completion.
The Arena in Diriyah: An Overview
The Arena in Diriyah is a part of Diriyah's grand $63.2 billion gigaproject master plan. The project, spearheaded by the Diriyah Company, aims to redefine cultural and lifestyle offerings within Riyadh and beyond.
The venue will be a 20,000-seater arena spanning over 76,000 square meters. Designed to host an array of cultural, entertainment, and sports events, The Arena in Diriyah is expected to draw visitors from around the globe, thereby transforming the region's events landscape.
The Diriyah Company revealed the project at MIPIM in Cannes, with the presence of Lord Dominic Johnson of Lainston, the UK Minister of State for Business and Trade.
Unveiling the Arena in Diriyah’s Design
The design of The Arena in Diriyah is a testament to the skill and creativity of HKS Architects, a reputed London-based firm. Inspired by the natural geology of the region and traditional Najdi architecture, the arena's design is a harmonious blend of heritage and innovation.
The arena's architecture is reminiscent of a series of monoliths, evoking local geological formations and alluding to ancient Nadji forts and palaces. Adding a modern twist to this traditional design are the digital waterfalls that will animate and light up the structure, creating a visually stunning spectacle.
HKS Architects lead architect Alex Thomas stated, “We are exceptionally proud to be a part of this project. The architecture rises from the landscape as a series of monoliths, evoking local geological formations and alluding to ancient Nadji forts and palaces that have animated and lit ‘digital waterfalls.’ The visual energy of the waterfalls serves as a beacon, drawing guests to the dynamic experience inside."
State-of-the-art Features at Arena in Diriyah
The Arena in Diriyah is slated to be a cutting-edge venue equipped with state-of-the-art features. Visitors will enjoy optimal acoustics and viewing angles regardless of where they are seated, thanks to the arena's innovative design.
Another notable feature of The Arena in Diriyah will be its shopping and dining district. This vibrant area promises to offer visitors a wide range of choices, enhancing their overall experience.
Adjacent to the arena will be The Plaza, an outdoor space designed for pop-up shows and community engagement. This open space will serve as a bustling hub for residents and visitors alike, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the venue.
The Arena’s Digital Waterfalls
Plans have been made to incorporate digital waterfalls into the design of the Arena in Diriyah in order to infuse a contemporary touch to the cultural atmosphere. These waterfalls will serve as a captivating visual element, attracting visitors towards the lively experience within.
The Arena in Diriyah’s Impact
The Arena in Diriyah is poised to significantly impact Saudi Arabia's entertainment scene. The venue is expected to drive tourism and economic growth, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, said: “The Arena in Diriyah is a cornerstone element of our mission to blend tradition with innovation. It exemplifies Diriyah's unique lifestyle offering that harmonizes community, culture, and natural connection, setting a new standard for world-class destinations rooted in Saudi heritage.”
A Testament to the Growth of Saudi Arabia
The Arena in Diriyah is not just a landmark project for Diriyah; it is a testament to the growth and development of Saudi Arabia as a whole.
The project exemplifies the nation's commitment to blending tradition with innovation, fostering community engagement, and stimulating economic growth through world-class events.
A New Era in Diriyah
With its blend of tradition and innovation, state-of-the-art features, and a commitment to offering a unique entertainment experience, The Arena in Diriyah is all set to become a world-class venue in the Middle East.
As we await its completion, there's no doubt that this project will add another feather to Saudi Arabia's cap, further solidifying its position on the global entertainment map.
Nearby Attractions
Bujairi Terrace
Located in the birthplace of the Saudi state, Diriyah, Bujairi Terrace is a prestigious and exclusive dining spot that was revealed to the public on December 4th, 2022.
With a vast area of 15,000 square meters and a total of 21 renowned international and local Bujairi Terrace restaurants serving a diverse range of cuisines, it is a top-notch destination for high-end dining. This historical location is renowned for its unique culinary experiences, rich culture, and heritage
At-Turaif World Heritage Site
The city of Diriyah, also known as "The City of Earth," is a cultural site located just 15 minutes from Riyadh.
It is famous for the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is situated in the old city of Ad Diriyah. This historic site was the Saudi Arabian royal family's original residence and served as their dynasty's capital until 1818.
Other Projects in Diriyah
Wadi Safar Project as The 'Bel Air' of Saudi Arabia
The Diriyah Gate Development Authority recently introduced the Wadi Safar project, which aims to transform Riyadh into an oasis. This project is set to house approximately 40 to 50 luxury homes, each priced at a minimum of $25 million, catering to a select clientele of ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
The community will have 106 guest rooms, 28 luxury suites, and an exclusive Royal Suite. Furthermore, it will include a relaxing spa, an indoor pool for recreational activities, and a dining facility supervised by the renowned chef, Michael Mina.
The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah Hotel
The construction of the new Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Diriyah has been launched by Marriott International, with a target of opening its doors in 2026.
This high-end five-star hotel will be situated within the expansive Diriyah Giga Project, which has a budget of $63 billion, signifying a significant step in Marriott's growth in Saudi Arabia.
The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah is expected to accommodate 195 guest rooms and 34 lavish suites, each providing a distinct combination of sophistication, extravagance, and regional heritage.
The prestigious construction company Saudico, based in Saudi Arabia, has recently been granted a contract worth $186 million by Diriyah Company to build the opulent Ritz-Carlton Residences in Diriyah.
The award for this contract was announced during the PIF Private Sector Forum, which took place in Riyadh.
The Ritz-Carlton Branded Residences
To offer a peaceful community environment, Diriyah Company and Ritz-Carlton have announced the launch of the first Ritz-Carlton Luxury Branded Residences in the Kingdom, promoting social interaction through cultural venues, plazas, and leisure facilities.
These villas, which will offer three different luxury interior designs from Najdi to contemporary, will be a part of the larger Diriyah Project, which is set to include 20,000 residential units, luxury hotels, and restaurants.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences will offer six different villa layouts, ranging from three to five bedrooms, each with a courtyard that provides a perfect space for residents to relax and unwind.
Additionally, residents will have the option to choose from three interior designs, including traditional Najdi and contemporary styles.
Keep Reading: The Luxury Ritz-Carlton Diriyah Set To Open in 2026
