Saudi Arabia will inaugurate restoration and reimagining of Diriyah, a 18th century adobe city that once served as the capital and stronghold of the first Saudi State, on November 19. The celebration will formally inaugurate the new giga project known as ‘Diriyah Gate’, a cultural and lifestyle tourism destination for Saudi Arabia with a UNESCO World Heritage Site at its heart. The seven square kilometer giga project will become one of Saudi Arabia’s cultural and lifestyle destinations with places to gather, explore, shop, dine, live and work.
“There is only one Diriyah. Only this place can tell the story of the Saudi people and inspire new generations to commit to the dynamic vision of the future. This is truly a momentous time in this extraordinary country, and I am proud to lead a world-class team in the development of this historic site that is destined to become a global cultural icon and one of the world’s greatest gathering places,” Jerry Inzerillo, CEO, Diriyah Gate Development Authority, said.
Located on the North Western edge of the Saudi capital of Riyadh, Diriyah is first and foremost, a place that is deeply important to the Saudi national identity and the Saudi royal family. “As the first home of the Saudi nation, it is important that Saudis are the backbone behind the success of Diriyah Gate, contributing to its unique identity. It is important therefore that the inauguration be designed & created by Saudis in honour of the heritage of their forefathers. Interest in Diriyah, the land of kings and heroes, is echoing around the globe. We plan to break ground in January 2020 for Diriyah Gate, a mixed-use traditional urban community which celebrates the rich cultural history of Saudi Arabia. Diriyah Gate, Riyadh’s new global cultural and lifestyle destination, will be home to leading luxury and lifestyle retail brands as well as over 100 cafes and restaurants,” Inzerillo added.
The inauguration of the Diriyah Gate project will reflect the bold and forward-thinking mission of the country’s leaders. This one-of-a-kind celebration will include a world-class gala dinner, with food sourced entirely from Saudi farms, supporting the hard-working communities that sustain the nation. Attendees of this evening can also expect a magnificent performance by Saudi musicians and pyrotechnics. Guests will be given the opportunity to experience first-hand the historical stories of the Saudi people through At-Turaif’s costumed historical interpreters. The team is made up entirely of young, proud Saudi nationals that are passionate about their heritage, representing a bridge between the past and future.
