Gulf Construction Online - Saudi group starts work on Diriyah Gate project

Saudi Focus

The mixed-use cultural and heritage development Diriyah Gate will showcase 300-plus years of history.

Saudi group starts work on Diriyah Gate project

01 July 2020

Saudi-based Diriyah Gate Development Authority has kicked off work on Diriyah Gate, one of its most ambitious developments that will see it transform a 7-sq-km old town near the capital Riyadh into one of the kingdom’s foremost historic cultural destinations.

Inspired by At Turaif, the Unesco World Heritage Site that is the birthplace of Saudi Arabia, Diriyah Gate will anchor a vision for the future on a jewel from the Saudi past and bring together the kingdom’s foremost collection of culture, lifestyle, learning and hospitality, reported Arab News.

The mixed-use cultural and heritage development will showcase 300-plus years of authentic history by delivering heritage experiences, empowering education, world-class entertainment, outstanding lifestyle and vibrant shopping and dining.

While many countries in the world have halted construction work and put projects on hold due to the pandemic, Saudi Arabia continues to move forward with its giga-projects, including the homeland of its forefathers, Diriyah, stated the report, citing senior officials.

“The investments in massive upgrades and infrastructure are continuing despite the economic climate,” remarked Danielle Ainslie, the Chief Marketing Officer. “We have literally begun work in the world’s largest cultural and heritage development,” she stated.

On completion, Diriyah Gate project will boast the world’s largest Islamic museum and see the restoration of historic Wadi Hanifa with the planting of over one million indigenous Diriyah date trees along with the transformation of the beautiful Wadi Safar into a Beverly Hills-style residential and hospitality district.

The project is well on its way with a new addition to the team: Princess Deena Nahar Al Saud recently joined as Senior Director of Brand Strategy and Experience.

Princess Deena, who has an extensive background in business development and a passion for branding, design and experience, had previously worked with the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage where she was a key member in the tourism visa team and led the “Open Hearts, Open Doors” tourism visa launch event.