The Diriyah Company has unveiled the preliminary design for “The Arena,” the latest asset by the giga-developer that is set to become a leading venue in the Middle East, attracting global visitors and revolutionising the region’s events scene.
Designed by London-based HKS Architects, the 76,000-square-metre venue is a key component of Diriyah’s $63.2 billion (SAR237 billion) masterplan, reshaping cultural and lifestyle offerings in Riyadh.
According to Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Company, The Arena embodies Diriyah’s distinct lifestyle, blending community, culture, and nature, while setting a new benchmark for premier destinations rooted in Saudi heritage. The venue will integrate traditional Najdi architectural motifs, reflecting centuries of heritage, and boast a flexible design to accommodate various events seamlessly.
Aligned with the Vision
Prioritising exceptional acoustics and optimal viewing angles from every seat, the state-of-the-art design ensures an immersive experience for attendees. Complementing the arena, a vibrant shopping district and outdoor plaza enhance the entertainment offerings.
The Arena is set to become a landmark asset in the region, integral to the ambitious Diriyah masterplan and aligned with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals to enrich the country’s entertainment landscape.
The venue promotes an authentically Saudi lifestyle, blending heritage and innovation, and fostering community engagement through world-class events that drive tourism and economic prosperity.
Commenting on the announcement, 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.”
The announcement was made in the presence of UK Minister of State for Business and Trade, Lord Dominic Johnson of Lainston, underscoring the international significance of the project.