In a major development aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Diriyah Company has awarded a SAR 5.75 billion ($1.53 billion) contract to the Branch of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. for the construction of the Arena Block—a dynamic new district in the heart of Diriyah that will feature the multi-purpose Diriyah Arena, three mixed-use office buildings, and a high-capacity parking facility.
Diriyah Arena: A World-Class Entertainment Hub
Set to become a landmark entertainment venue, Diriyah Arena will span a gross floor area (GFA) of approximately 74,000 square meters and boast a 20,000-seat capacity. It is designed to host a wide array of global events, including concerts, sports competitions, esports tournaments, exhibitions, and live performances. The Arena’s flexible infrastructure is aimed at attracting both domestic and international visitors, enhancing Diriyah’s status as a global cultural and entertainment destination.
The architectural design, crafted by globally renowned firm HKS Inc., integrates modern engineering with elements inspired by the Najdi architecture and the surrounding natural geology, creating a unique fusion of heritage and innovation.
Beyond the Arena: Offices, Parking, and Infrastructure
The Arena Block will also house three mixed-use office buildings totaling approximately 114,000 square meters, designed by John McAslan + Partners, and equipped with cutting-edge technology. To support event and office traffic, the project includes over 4,000 parking spaces, ensuring seamless accessibility.
Leadership Commentary
Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company, emphasized the significance of the project:
“The iconic Diriyah Arena will be a landmark entertainment complex that reinforces the City of Earth’s role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s artistic and cultural future. This venue showcases our commitment to developing world-leading gathering places and contributes directly to the objectives of Vision 2030.”
Yang Zhiyuan, CEO of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. (Middle East), added:
“This contract is a milestone for CHEC in the Kingdom. We will bring global expertise and technical excellence to ensure successful delivery. Our participation in this project reflects our dedication to contributing to Saudi Arabia’s transformational journey.”
Momentum in Diriyah’s Development
This latest contract builds on a previous award in December 2024, when CHEC secured a $202.2 million deal for bulk excavation works. Diriyah’s continued momentum is evident as it prepares to house an expanding portfolio of cultural and entertainment assets, including the Royal Diriyah Opera House, nine museums, and cultural academies—all inspired by Najdi heritage and the historic At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Diriyah: A Vision 2030 Flagship Project
Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Diriyah is a transformative 14-square-kilometer urban development project. Once complete, it will accommodate 100,000 residents, create 178,000+ jobs, welcome over 50 million annual visitors, and inject approximately $18.6 billion (SAR 70 billion) into the national GDP.