Diriyah has emerged as a thriving cultural hub, with over 3.6 million visits recorded by mid-2025, highlighting its status as a global destination. This growth follows the successful launch of Bujairi Terrace and the historic At Turaif District in December 2022. The recent awarding of $5 billion in contracts further emphasizes Diriyah’s rapid development as it aims to attract 50 million annual visitors by 2030, aligning with Saudi Arabia‘s Vision 2030.
The city is steadfast in its journey toward achieving its ambitious visitation goals, supported by significant investment and development. The total value of contracts awarded during the first half of 2025 soared to SR18.75 billion ($5 billion), spread across 15 major agreements, signaling an accelerated pace of transformation in the area.
Significant Contract Awards in Diriyah
Among the notable contracts awarded are:
- Power Stations: SR1.166 billion ($311 million) for the establishment of two new main power stations.
- Royal Diriyah Opera House: A SR5.1 billion ($1.36 billion) partnership with ESEC, Midmac Construction, and CSCEC to create a flagship performing arts venue, which is set to become the winter residence for New York’s Metropolitan Opera.
- KSU Utilities Relocation: A SR4.225 billion ($1.13 billion) contract with CRCCSA & CRCGCPC to relocate utilities and offices at King Saud University.
- Diriyah Square: A SR2.249 billion ($600 million) agreement with Salini Saudi Arabia (WeBuild) to construct 73 buildings and 400 retail units.
- Diriyah Arena: A SR5.75 billion ($1.53 billion) contract with China Harbour Engineering Company for a 20,000-seat venue designed for concerts, sports, esports, and exhibitions.
Additionally, Diriyah has introduced luxury hotel-branded residences, including Aman Residences Amansamar (34 villas), Armani Residences Diriyah (15 units designed by Giorgio Armani), and The Chedi Residences Wadi Safar (20 villas).
Diriyah’s Global Engagement
In 2025, Diriyah strengthened its international presence, engaging over 25,000 visitors at prominent forums such as ITB Berlin, ATM Dubai, ITB China, and ILTM Asia Pacific, along with activations in cultural hubs like Paris, Rome, and London.
Some highlights from these efforts included a Diriyah pop-up at Harrods and the launch of the Diriyah House Experience Center at One Hyde Park, London. Moreover, in January, Diriyah Company made its debut at the World Economic Forum in Davos, showcasing its innovative projects at MIPIM in Cannes. TIME Magazine recognized Diriyah Company as one of the 100 Most Influential Companies in the World, marking it as the second Saudi company to receive such an honor, following Aramco.
Commitment to Sustainability and Cultural Heritage
Diriyah’s dedication to fostering local talent is evident through initiatives like the Graduate Development Program and Engineers Development Program, along with its Smart City Initiative aimed at enhancing local infrastructure and services. The city also introduced Diriyah Tan, a signature Pantone shade inspired by its rich Najdi mud-brick heritage.
In a historic moment, HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump to Diriyah, visiting the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif District—the first such visit by a sitting American president. Additionally, Diriyah FC secured the Saudi Second Division League title, achieving promotion to the First Division.
In 2025, Diriyah garnered numerous accolades, including the Best Sustainable Tourism Development Project Award, Excellence in Sustainability Award, and Innovation in Urban Design Award. The Wadi Safar project impressively achieved three Mostadam sustainability certifications, while Diriyah Company obtained ISO certifications for sustainable practices and business continuity management.
Iconic landmarks such as Bujairi Terrace, Wadi Hanifah, and Zallal were recognized in the global edition of Monopoly, underscoring Diriyah’s growing cultural significance. By 2030, projects in Diriyah are expected to contribute over SR70 billion ($18.7 billion) annually to Saudi Arabia’s GDP while creating 180,000 jobs, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of cultural tourism and economic development.