Image: Saudi Press Agency
Diriyah Company has signed a SAR5.75 billion ($1.53 billion) contract with the branch of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. for the construction of the Arena Block in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. The project entails the development of the Diriyah Arena, three mixed-use office buildings, along with a multi-storey parking facility.
A press release from the company states that the Diriyah Arena will have a total floor area of around 74,000 square meters. This venue is designed to be flexible and scalable, allowing it to host a variety of events, from concerts and sports tournaments to esports competitions, exhibitions, and live performances. With a seating capacity of 20,000, the arena aims to draw both local residents and international tourists.
The design, created by the renowned architectural firm HKS Inc., draws inspiration from the natural landscape of Diriyah and traditional Najdi architecture, merging cultural heritage with contemporary design.
In addition to broadening Diriyah’s cultural and entertainment landscape, the arena is intended to act as a community center, fostering social interaction and enhancing the quality of life for local inhabitants.
Arena Block
The Arena Block will also house three mixed-use office buildings, which will cover an area of approximately 114,000 square meters, designed by John McAslan + Partners. It will feature cutting-edge infrastructure and over 4,000 parking spots to accommodate both arena visitors and office workers.
Jerry Inzerillo, the CEO of Diriyah Company, remarked, “The Diriyah Arena will stand as a premier entertainment facility in Diriyah, underscoring the city’s evolving global influence on Saudi Arabia’s artistic and cultural trajectory, in line with Vision 2030. By luring both local and international audiences to partake in premier sports and performances, the Diriyah Arena highlights our dedication to establishing a world-class venue.”
Yang Zhiyuan, the general manager of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. (Middle East), added, “This contract signifies a notable achievement for CHEC in the Kingdom. We will bring extensive global expertise and a successful project delivery history to this initiative. Our approach includes mobilizing top talents and resources from our international network, ensuring the successful and timely completion of this outstanding Arena. We are proud to contribute to this significant undertaking in support of Vision 2030.”
The awarding of this contract is part of a series of significant announcements projected for 2025 as Diriyah Company continues to execute its development master plan.
The Diriyah Arena will complement other significant projects within the Diriyah development, which includes the Royal Diriyah Opera House, nine museums, and several cultural academies, all inspired by the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif.