Construction has started on the King Salman Park’s Royal Arts Complex, which once complete will act as a cultural hub for the Saudi capital of Riyadh

Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | 25 May 2022

The Royal Arts Complex will become a culture hub for the city of Riyadh Credit: King Salman Park Foundation
The King Salman Park Foundation has started construction on its upcoming Royal Arts Complex - a project spanning more than 500,000sq m (5.4 million sq ft) and featuring immersive experiences designed to cater to culture and art in all of its forms.
Designed by the late Ricardo Bofill, the complex in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has been thought up with a blend of modern and traditional Saudi architecture, combining the two to honour the kingdom’s heritage.
A museum stands out as the anchor asset of the complex, with the 106-metre-tall (348ft) building taking a pyramid-like form.
A library will also feature, as will dedicated artists' studios, and an institute featuring a 600-seat auditorium.
Artists in residence will be able to showcase their work in The Dome - a spheroid structure designed to be as impressive as the works within it.
The plan also includes a National Theatre, with the venue comprising a 2,300 seat multi-performance space, as well as a 650-seat theatre and three cinema halls.
Once complete the Royal Arts Complex will act as the Saudi capital’s heart for arts and culture offering “one-of-a-kind” experiences.
The complex will be part of the wider King Salman Park, which aims to provide a variety of environmental, cultural, sports, artistic, and entertainment options.
The park, which covers 16sq km (6.18sq mi) and will feature more than a million trees, is being developed in line with the Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to create a vibrant and healthy society, and to boost the global ranking of Riyadh among the “world’s top liveable cities”.
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