Latest news with #DiriyahCompany
Campaign ME
2 days ago
- Business
- Campaign ME
UK Advertising at Cannes Lions: Bridging markets, building creativity
At Cannes Lions this year, 'storytelling' was everywhere. But as Kiran Jay Haslam, CMO, Diriyah Company, wisely pointed out, 'If you don't have something worthy of sharing, you don't have a story.' It's a reminder that words alone don't move markets. Ideas with impact do. That shift from buzzwords to real-world challenges set the tone for our roundtable at Cannes Lions hosted by UK Advertising and Athar Festival. Leaders from both the UK and Saudi Arabian advertising industries came together to discuss the theme 'Redefining Creative Effectiveness for a Growing Market'. Yet, as so often happens when a conversation hits the right note, the discussion evolved into something deeper: an honest appraisal of where our industries stand and where we need to go together. Saudi Arabia's advertising sector is undergoing an intentional transformation, driven by Vision 2030, boosted by strategic investments and a digitally native population. This is fuelling a new generation of creatives shaping a globally recognised industry, with Saudi agencies making their mark internationally, including 12 Lions at Cannes this year. When the moderator, Campaign Middle East's Anup Oommen, asked how the group defines true effectiveness, the consensus was that creative effectiveness means the tangible impact creative work delivers against clear objectives such as driving growth or strengthening brand equity. However, the question also led the group to explore ambition and the challenges this poses for both markets. Talent was a key theme, not in terms of creativity or enthusiasm, which Saudi has in abundance, but in strengthening critical thinking skills to consistently deliver world-class work. Ian Fairservice, Chairman of Athar Festival, and Managing Partner and Group Editor-in-Chief, Motivate Media Group, underscored the importance of direct access to global mentors, opportunities and capability-building for both markets, keeping in mind today's cross-cultural creative economy. It was noted that critical thinking is a particular strength of the UK sector, highlighting an opportunity for collaboration to help develop this capability further in Saudi Arabia. The challenge lies less in potential and more in building the right support systems to help that potential thrive. This is where UK–Saudi collaboration can be transformative. Yet, as Mohamed Al Ayed, Vice Chairman, Athar Festival, and CEO, TRACCS, pointed out, moving beyond 'knowledge transfer' to a model of shared learning is crucial. That linguistic shift signals mutual respect, cultural exchange, and sustainable partnership. As Jason Foo, CEO, BBD Perfect Storm, put it during the discussion, 'Saudi's ambition and creative energy are undeniable. The UK brings experience navigating global markets and building brands. The best partnerships are where ideas flow both ways.' Jane Asscher, CEO, 23red and VP, frog UK, part of Capgemini Invent, added, 'We've spent years refining how we pitch and collaborate with clients, but that's not a one-way export, it's something we can open up, share, and learn from our colleagues in the Middle East too.' As the UK and Saudi markets grow, sustaining creative excellence requires ongoing collaboration and dedication. This year, UK Advertising returns to Saudi Arabia as a partner of the Athar Festival, bringing more than 20 senior UK leaders. This reflects a strategic commitment, not just a delegation visit, to deepen partnerships, foster shared learning, empower emerging talent, and support the Kingdom's vision for a world class creative economy. We look forward to unveiling initiatives that showcase creativity's measurable impact both culturally and commercially. From my perspective as International Director for UK Advertising, this partnership offers a unique opportunity to bridge talent and knowledge between our markets. Our focus is on building long-term capability and confidence on both sides, ensuring creatives and marketers have the platforms and mentorship needed to thrive. This positions UK Advertising not only as a global creative hub but as a committed partner in the Kingdom's journey toward creative excellence. Creativity's return on investment is clear. Beyond elevating brands, it is essential for attracting and retaining top talent. In a competitive global market, investing in creativity shows ambition and a commitment to innovation and sustainable growth. It builds cultures where talent thrives, brands connect meaningfully with audiences, and industries evolve resiliently. The roundtable ended not with answers, but with alignment. Across both markets, there is a shared belief that creativity is most powerful when it is inclusive and forward-thinking, driving real business and cultural impact. Looking ahead to the Athar Festival, I'm optimistic about what we can build: not just stories, but stories that matter. By Aisling Conlon, International Trade Director for UK Advertising, Advertising Association
Leaders
2 days ago
- Business
- Leaders
‘Diriyah Horizon' Program Builds Conscious, Powerful Generation
The third edition of Diriyah Horizon youth summer program kicked off on Sunday, bringing various activities designed to develop youth skills and foster cultural values, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The program represents a significant collaboration between the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) and several other entities, as follows: King Abdulaziz Center for Cultural Communication Saudi Space Agency iLMI Science Discovery and Innovation Center Mahd Sports Academy 'Diriyah Horizon' Program By offering an engaging, interactive environment, the program seeks to boost the participants' skills and capabilities. The program also aims to make a real difference in the lives of the Saudi youth by shaping their way of thinking and supporting them in their academic and professional careers. Set to run until August 21, the program features various activities across six tracks focusing on Diriyah's heritage, as follows: The Leadership track: It boasts three workshops tackling debate skills, volunteerism, along with public speaking. The Heritage track: It explores archaeological excavation and traditional mudbrick construction techniques. The Creative Production: It features photography and filmmaking skills. The Science track: It includes multiple workshops on water systems, soil science, sustainable energy, as well as aircraft design. The Space track: It provides interactive workshops introducing astronomy and space tech from past to present, along with agricultural seasons in Diriyah. The Sports track: It focuses mainly on fencing and archery. 'Diriyah Horizon' Program Overall, the Diriyah Horizon strives to build a conscious and powerful Saudi generation that can leave a real impact on Shaping the Kingdom's cultural scene and safeguarding the authentic legacy of Diriyah. Related Topics: Diriyah Company Awards $600 Million Contract to Salini Saudi Arabia Diriyah Company Showcases Urban Development Project at London's Harrods Saudi Music Commission Boosts Cultural Landscape during Summer Piano Intensive Short link : Post Views: 33 Related Stories
Mid East Info
17-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Diriyah Company Announces $1.53 Billion Construction Contract for The Diriyah Arena Superblock - Middle East Business News and Information
Branch of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd will undertake the construction works for Diriyah Arena, three office buildings, and parking for 4,000 vehicles, marking another major milestone in Diriyah's transformation into a world-class cultural and lifestyle destination. The new 20,000-seat Diriyah Arena will anchor a dynamic mixed-use complex blending heritage and innovation, designed to host concerts, sports, and global events. DIRIYAH, July, 2025: Diriyah Company has awarded a contract worth $1.53 billion (SAR 5.75 billion) to Branch of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd for the construction works of the Arena Block, a district that includes the multi-purpose indoor Diriyah Arena, three mixed-use office buildings, and a parking facility. Diriyah Arena will have a gross floor area (GFA) of approximately 74,000 square meters and is designed as a flexible and scalable venue to accommodate events such as concerts, sporting events, esports competitions, exhibitions, and live shows. With a seating capacity of 20,000 spectators, it aims to attract residents and visitors from around the world. Designed by renowned global architecture firm HKS Inc., the Diriyah Arena's design draws inspiration from the natural geology surrounding Diriyah, while honoring traditional Najdi architectural elements, creating a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity. The Diriyah Arena will enhance the quality of life in Diriyah by providing a space for residents and visitors to enjoy events, fostering community spirit, and contributing to overall well-being. In addition to the Diriyah Arena, the Arena Block development will include three mixed-use office plots designed by international architects John McAslan + Partners, covering approximately 114,000 square meters, supported by state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure. The contract also includes over 4,000 parking spaces to support both Diriyah Arena events and office facilities. Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, said: 'The iconic Diriyah Arena will be a landmark entertainment complex in Diriyah that reinforces the City of Earth's growing global role in shaping Saudi Arabia's artistic and cultural future, in alignment with Vision 2030. By attracting both residents and global visitors to experience world-class sports and performances, the Diriyah Arena firmly demonstrates our commitment to creating a world-leading gathering place. It also highlights the rapid progress we are making in developing a diverse range of assets across the Diriyah project.' Yang Zhiyuan, CEO of China Harbour Engineering Company East, said: 'This award marks a significant milestone for CHEC in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. CHEC will bring to the project a wealth of global experience, technical expertise, and a proven track record in delivering the complex. We will mobilize the best resources and talents from across our international network and strive for excellence to ensure the successful and timely delivery of this world-class Arena. We remain committed to delivering excellence in support of Vision 2030. We are deeply proud to be part of it.' This contract is the latest in a series of major announcements so far in 2025 as Diriyah Company continues to accelerate its development program for Diriyah, realizing milestone after milestone. In addition to this contract, December 2024 saw China Harbour Engineering Company awarded a $202.2 million (SAR 758.5) million contract by Diriyah Company for bulk excavation works. The Diriyah Arena will join world-class cultural and entertainment assets in Diriyah including the Royal Diriyah Opera House, nine museums, and academies, all featuring Najdi architectural elements inspired by the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site. Backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Diriyah is a large-scale urban development project spanning 14-square kilometers that will include homes for approximately 100,000 residents, generate over 178,000 jobs, host approximately 50 million annual visits, and contribute around $18.6 billion (SAR 70 billion) directly to Saudi Arabia's GDP. About Diriyah: Diriyah, Saudi Arabia's premier historical, cultural, and lifestyle destination, is a key component of Saudi Arabia's 2030 Vision. A short 15-minute drive from Riyadh's city center, this 14-square-kilometer development holds historical significance as the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, dating back to 1727. Currently being developed by Diriyah Company, Diriyah is undergoing a transformation into an authentic Najdi-style mixed-use urban community. Diriyah's centerpiece is At-Turaif, the UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 2010, showcasing the ancient adobe capital city of the First Saudi State, dating back to 1766. Upon completion, Diriyah will host 100,000 residents, workers, students, and visitors, offering a diverse range of cultural, entertainment, retail, hospitality, educational, and residential spaces. The first of those spaces include Bujairi Terrace, Riyadh's new premium dining hub with over 20 global and local restaurants and cafes that enjoy uninterrupted views of At-Turaif. Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel is the first hospitality offering in Diriyah, providing a tranquil experience with panoramic views of Wadi Hanifah. Diriyah's development provides a dynamic environment that celebrates Saudi Arabia's rich cultural history. About Diriyah Company: Diriyah Company was established in 2023 and joined the Public Investment Fund's (PIF) portfolio of giga projects. The Company is responsible for developing the Diriyah project, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its foremost historical, cultural and lifestyle destination. A dynamic mixed-use developer, Diriyah Company is redefining urban planning to develop Diriyah, 'The City of Earth', while adhering to the highest design, development, and preservation standards. The company ensures Diriyah's cultural landmarks are complemented by world-class retail offerings, fine-dining experiences and leading hospitality brands. As a PIF company, its mission focuses on opportunities in development, hospitality, investment, retail and office leasing, along with strategic asset management, underscoring the commitment to ensuring successful business outcomes and sustainable growth under the strategic direction of Vision 2030. The Diriyah Company actively forges long-term partnerships to realize its vision of establishing Diriyah as one of the world's greatest gathering places.
Zawya
16-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Diriyah Company announces $1.53bln construction contract for The Diriyah Arena Superblock
Branch of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd will undertake the construction works for Diriyah Arena, three office buildings, and parking for 4,000 vehicles, marking another major milestone in Diriyah's transformation into a world-class cultural and lifestyle destination. The new 20,000-seat Diriyah Arena will anchor a dynamic mixed-use complex blending heritage and innovation, designed to host concerts, sports, and global events. DIRIYAH, Diriyah Company has awarded a contract worth $1.53 billion (SAR 5.75 billion) to Branch of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd for the construction works of the Arena Block, a district that includes the multi-purpose indoor Diriyah Arena, three mixed-use office buildings, and a parking facility. Diriyah Arena will have a gross floor area (GFA) of approximately 74,000 square meters and is designed as a flexible and scalable venue to accommodate events such as concerts, sporting events, esports competitions, exhibitions, and live shows. With a seating capacity of 20,000 spectators, it aims to attract residents and visitors from around the world. Designed by renowned global architecture firm HKS Inc., the Diriyah Arena's design draws inspiration from the natural geology surrounding Diriyah, while honoring traditional Najdi architectural elements, creating a harmonious blend of heritage and modernity. The Diriyah Arena will enhance the quality of life in Diriyah by providing a space for residents and visitors to enjoy events, fostering community spirit, and contributing to overall well-being. In addition to the Diriyah Arena, the Arena Block development will include three mixed-use office plots designed by international architects John McAslan + Partners, covering approximately 114,000 square meters, supported by state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure. The contract also includes over 4,000 parking spaces to support both Diriyah Arena events and office facilities. Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, said: 'The iconic Diriyah Arena will be a landmark entertainment complex in Diriyah that reinforces the City of Earth's growing global role in shaping Saudi Arabia's artistic and cultural future, in alignment with Vision 2030. By attracting both residents and global visitors to experience world-class sports and performances, the Diriyah Arena firmly demonstrates our commitment to creating a world-leading gathering place. It also highlights the rapid progress we are making in developing a diverse range of assets across the Diriyah project.' Yang Zhiyuan, CEO of China Harbour Engineering C ompany Ltd.(Middle East), said: 'This award marks a significant milestone for CHEC in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. CHEC will bring to the project a wealth of global experience, technical expertise, and a proven track record in delivering the complex. We will mobilize the best resources and talents from across our international network and strive for excellence to ensure the successful and timely delivery of this world-class Arena. We remain committed to delivering excellence in support of Vision 2030. We are deeply proud to be part of it.' This contract is the latest in a series of major announcements so far in 2025 as Diriyah Company continues to accelerate its development program for Diriyah, realizing milestone after milestone. In addition to this contract, December 2024 saw China Harbour Engineering Company awarded a $202.2 million (SAR 758.5) million contract by Diriyah Company for bulk excavation works. The Diriyah Arena will join world-class cultural and entertainment assets in Diriyah including the Royal Diriyah Opera House, nine museums, and academies, all featuring Najdi architectural elements inspired by the At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site. Backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Diriyah is a large-scale urban development project spanning 14-square kilometers that will include homes for approximately 100,000 residents, generate over 178,000 jobs, host approximately 50 million annual visits, and contribute around $18.6 billion (SAR 70 billion) directly to Saudi Arabia's GDP. About Diriyah Diriyah, Saudi Arabia's premier historical, cultural, and lifestyle destination, is a key component of Saudi Arabia's 2030 Vision. A short 15-minute drive from Riyadh's city center, this 14-square-kilometer development holds historical significance as the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, dating back to 1727. Currently being developed by Diriyah Company, Diriyah is undergoing a transformation into an authentic Najdi-style mixed-use urban community. Diriyah's centerpiece is At-Turaif, the UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed in 2010, showcasing the ancient adobe capital city of the First Saudi State, dating back to 1766. Upon completion, Diriyah will host 100,000 residents, workers, students, and visitors, offering a diverse range of cultural, entertainment, retail, hospitality, educational, and residential spaces. The first of those spaces include Bujairi Terrace, Riyadh's new premium dining hub with over 20 global and local restaurants and cafes that enjoy uninterrupted views of At-Turaif. Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel is the first hospitality offering in Diriyah, providing a tranquil experience with panoramic views of Wadi Hanifah. Diriyah's development provides a dynamic environment that celebrates Saudi Arabia's rich cultural history. About Diriyah Company Diriyah Company was established in 2023 and joined the Public Investment Fund's (PIF) portfolio of giga projects. The Company is responsible for developing the Diriyah project, the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its foremost historical, cultural and lifestyle destination. A dynamic mixed-use developer, Diriyah Company is redefining urban planning to develop Diriyah, 'The City of Earth', while adhering to the highest design, development, and preservation standards. The company ensures Diriyah's cultural landmarks are complemented by world-class retail offerings, fine-dining experiences and leading hospitality brands. As a PIF company, its mission focuses on opportunities in development, hospitality, investment, retail and office leasing, along with strategic asset management, underscoring the commitment to ensuring successful business outcomes and sustainable growth under the strategic direction of Vision 2030. The Diriyah Company actively forges long-term partnerships to realize its vision of establishing Diriyah as one of the world's greatest gathering places.
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Diriyah awards $600m contract to Salini Saudi Arabia for retail units
Diriyah Company has awarded a SR2.24bn ($600m) construction contract to Webuild Group subsidiary Salini Saudi Arabia for 400 retail units in the Diriyah Square retail precinct. This project aims to establish a retail district within the Diriyah Masterplan. Diriyah Square will feature a combination of leisure, retail, and dining brands. Salini's involvement marks its third major contribution to this flagship retail environment. Salini is already progressing with the construction of a 10,500-space car park beneath the square, which will include bus stations, taxi and VIP drop-off areas, and a four-lane underground gyratory. Additionally, the company is completing the structural engineering for Diriyah Square's above-ground assets, including its hotels, retail, offices, branded residences, and a mosque. Diriyah Company group CEO Jerry Inzerillo said: 'It is yet another significant milestone in our development journey and will help set the stage for Diriyah Square's retail spaces to welcome a diverse array of shoppers from our residential communities, surrounding office spaces and the millions who visit us every year.' The contract involves constructing 73 buildings and 400 shell and core retail units over a 365,340m² built-up area. The project includes finishes, facades, and fit-outs, all reflecting traditional Najdi architectural themes to create a pedestrianised retail environment. Webuild CEO Pietro Salini said: 'The Webuild Group has been present in Saudi Arabia since 1966, delivering more than 90 projects. We remain committed to supporting the kingdom in developing some of the world's most complex infrastructure projects, particularly in areas such as civil buildings, sustainable mobility, and desalination.' Diriyah Square will host 400 of the estimated 1,000 outlets that are planned across the 14km² development area of the wider SR237bn project. "Diriyah awards $600m contract to Salini Saudi Arabia for retail units" was originally created and published by World Construction Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
