Saudi Arabia continues to press forward with its giga-projects, as the rest of the world waits on COVID-19 results and statistics before continuing with construction work. The next project to begin construction in Saudi Arabia however, is the largest of all. Diriyah, situated just 15 minutes from downtown Riyadh is set to be transformed from an old town into one of Saudi Arabia’s foremost cultural destinations.
“The investments in massive upgrades and infrastructure are continuing despite the economic climate,” Danielle Ainslie, chief marketing officer at the Diriyah Gate Development Authority, said in a conversation with Arab News. “We have literally begun work in the world’s largest cultural and heritage development,” she said.
As the project gets underway, an important addition to the team has occurred. Princess Deena Nahar Al-Saud recently joined the project as senior director of brand strategy and experience. Princess Deena has an extensive background in business development and aa passion for branding, design, and experience, having previously worked with the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage as a key member of the tourism visa team.
Princess Deena has described Diriyah as her favourite location in the city, “Being in close proximity to At-Turaif always leaves me speechless. The walls surrounding Salwa Palace are extraordinary, and I am grateful to have started a journey that will showcase Diriyah to the world,” she said.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, serves as the inspiration for the Diriyah Gate. The new attraction aims to bring together Saudi’s collection of culture, lifestyle, learning and hospitality, showcasing over 300 years of authentic history, through experiences, empowering education, world-class entertainment and vibrant shopping and dining.
Taking inspiration from both London’s Hyde Park and New York’s Central Park, Diriyah will have its own free public space for all to enjoy. Researchers are investigating the history of the area to create a space that stays true to the country’s landscape. As part of this phase, the restoration of Wadi Hanifa, a valley running for miles creating part of the incredible landscape, will include the replanting of around 20,000 historic palms.
“That natural oasis or wadi was primarily the reason that the settlement was there, even before the first Saudi state … and today that is one of the main goals to bring it back to its original state,” Princess Deena said.
The restoration of the area will see one of the Kingdom’s largest and most beautiful parks created. The park will split into three zones, a culture and heritage zone, a living zone, and an ecotourism zone.
