Latest news with #Najdi-style
Arab News
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia celebrates World Heritage Day with 6 days of events in Riyadh
RIYADH: A series of special events are taking place this week at Laysen Valley in Riyadh in celebration of World Heritage Day on April 18. Organized by the Ministry of Culture's Heritage Commission, they run from April 16-21 with the aim of honoring and promoting the historical and cultural values of Saudi Arabia and its heritage through educational and interactive activities. Visitors to Laysen Valley will be greeted with an immersive experience, organizers said, that transports them to the Kingdom's eight World Heritage Sites and showcases their cultural significance through storytelling, a digital light show and live recreations of the locations. A number of artists are participating in the events, including Abdullah Al-Fawzan, whose carved wooden works are inspired by Najdi designs. The doors of old Najd, known for their rich decoration and designs based on natural structures, are emblematic of the deep roots and culture of the central Saudi region. Al-Fawzan told Arab News that woodcarving is an essential element of his family's traditions, dating back six generations. Under the guidance of his father, he began learning the skill at the age of seven years old. He has created about 100 Najdi-style doors for numerous projects in various parts of the capital, including Diriyah and Al-Doho, a historic neighborhood in southern Riyadh. 'We could say that craftspeople are considered the bridge between the past and the present,' he said. 'We are working on pieces that are completely handmade, while preserving the authenticity and the identity of Najd.' Al-Fawzan works for six to 10 hours a day carving and painting his works, and his craft has taught him the art of patience, especially when he encounters problems. 'We have a saying that says 'He who is patience, triumphs,'' he explained. 'I can't work on anything big if I am in a bad mood. I must be in a clear mood, far away from any problems and ready to work.' Other attractions at the Heritage Day events include a dedicated children's area, and pavilions showcasing traditional arts and crafts. There are also workshops, live demonstrations by artisans, and marketplaces where craftspeople will be selling handmade items. In addition there will be a series of drone shows at Wadi Al-Turath on April 18.
Zawya
08-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Turner & Townsend lead management consultant for Diriyah project in Saudi
Turner & Townsend, the global professional services company, has been appointed as the project management and construction management consultant for Diriyah's Northern District, a major development that will enrich the cultural and knowledge landscape of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Northern District is a planned global centre of learning for scholars, students, and visionaries, and a cornerstone of the broader $63.2 billion (SAR236 billion) Diriyah Masterplan covering a 14 sq km area on the outskirts of Riyadh. Diriyah, The City of Earth, will generate an estimated 178,000 jobs, provide homes for nearly 100,000 residents, attract 50 million visits each year, and is predicted to contribute approximately $18.6 billion directly to Saudi Arabia's GDP once completed. Designed to be a hub for knowledge, learning, and creativity, the Northern District will feature museums, a university, and a library, with a hotel around the district's public square, offering magnificent views of At-Turaif, the Unesco World Heritage Site and Wadi Hanifah. Since joining the project in March 2024, Turner & Townsend has worked to manage a smooth transition into the next phase of development, including the appointment of the full-service general contractor appointed across the district. Valued at $2 billion and spanning 172,000 sq m of gross floor area (GFA), construction is scheduled to last three years. At its peak it will see 250 consultants from Turner & Townsend and its sub-consultants working across the project. Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO, Diriyah Company, said: "The Northern District is a vital component of the Diriyah masterplan that exemplifies the richness and diversity of The City of Earth. Our collaboration with Turner & Townsend marks another major milestone in our efforts to develop Diriyah into a global gathering place that honors 300 years history, heritage and culture." Mark Hamill, Regional Real Estate and Major Programs Lead, Turner & Townsend, Middle East, said: "Our collaboration with Diriyah Company on the Northern District project is creating a premier global hub for cultural, educational, and economic excellence." "The development will attract millions of visitors and generate thousands of jobs, and as Diriyah evolves into an authentic Najdi-style mixed-use urban community, the Northern District will play a pivotal role in enriching the cultural and educational landscape of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia," he added. Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Leaders
12-02-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Diriyah Company, DGDA, Saudi Contractors Authority Forge Strategic Partnership
In a strategic move, the Diriyah Company and the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) have joined forces with the Saudi Contractors Authority (SCA), signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration across all sectors. The MoU aims to streamline contractor engagement processes and effectively tackle regulatory challenges within the contracting sector. The agreement also facilitates data exchange and fosters solutions to boost operational efficiency and innovation. Key Objectives of the MoU Mr. Jerry Inzerillo, Diriyah Company Group CEO and the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, and Mr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Ajlan, Chairman of the Saudi Contractors Authority signed the agreement. This partnership supports Saudi Vision 2030's emphasis on unifying efforts and improving accountability. The alignment ensures efficient project execution and flexibility in overcoming challenges faced by contractors. This collaboration represents a significant step toward preserving and showcasing Diriyah as a crucial historical landmark. The MoU focuses on the sustainable development of Diriyah, emphasizing its rich architectural, cultural, and artistic heritage. This initiative contributes meaningfully to Saudi Arabia's cultural and economic growth in line with national goals. Building a World-Class Cultural Destination Diriyah Company reaffirms its commitment to developing the Diriyah project into a premier cultural and tourism destination. The project incorporates a wide array of assets, including cultural, educational, and residential spaces. This integrated, mixed-use community seeks to attract global visitors while supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and enhancing the Kingdom's GDP. The Saudi Contractors Authority's involvement highlights its dedication to advancing the contracting sector. By empowering its workforce, the Authority drives innovation and fosters collaboration among stakeholders. Together, these initiatives will establish a secure and high-quality environment for successful project execution. Diriyah: Saudi Arabia's Premier Destination Diriyah, located just 15 minutes from Riyadh's city center, serves as a crucial part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative. This 14-square-kilometer development, established in 1727, holds considerable historical value. Diriyah is transforming into an authentic Najdi-style mixed-use urban community, centered around the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif. Upon completion, Diriyah will accommodate 100,000 residents and visitors. The development will feature various cultural, entertainment, retail, hospitality, and educational spaces. Bujairi Terrace emerges as Riyadh's premium dining hub, offering stunning views of At-Turaif and a variety of dining experiences. Establishing Diriyah as 'The City of Earth' Founded in 2022, Diriyah Company focuses on redefining urban planning while adhering to top preservation standards. The company aims to complement Diriyah's cultural landmarks with world-class retail and hospitality offerings. As a Public Investment Fund (PIF) firm, Diriyah Company emphasizes strategic asset management to ensure sustainable growth. In conclusion, this partnership sets the framework for establishing Diriyah as one of the world's greatest gathering places while aligning with the strategic objectives of Vision 2030. Short link : Post Views: 4
