Diriyah Company Signs $113.6 Million Contract for Boulevard District

Diriyah Company has announced the award of a SAR426.3 million (US$113.6 million) contract for architectural design work on the Boulevard District, a flagship component of the historic Diriyah development. The contract, disclosed in a press release on January 7, 2025, via the Saudi Press Agency, will engage a specialized urban development firm to serve as the multidisciplinary design consultant for the district.

Context and Background

The Diriyah project, valued at $63.2 billion, is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to transform the historic birthplace of the Kingdom into a world-class cultural, heritage, and tourism destination. The Boulevard District is intended to become a major focal point within this 14-square kilometer development area, designed to enhance connectivity and provide vibrant community spaces that align with the Kingdom’s modernization goals.

Key Details

The contract covers concept design, schematic design, detailed design, and construction supervision for three community areas within the Boulevard District. The selected firm will apply its expertise to create beautifully designed buildings that support Diriyah’s comprehensive master plans. Diriyah Company has significantly accelerated its development program by securing major agreements for large-scale projects, with key contracts awarded to other contractors in recent months.

Implications and Impact

This contract underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing large-scale urban development projects that drive economic diversification. The Boulevard District will serve as a hub connecting multiple areas within Diriyah, boosting tourism and creating new opportunities for international investment. The project is expected to contribute to local job creation and position Diriyah as a premier destination for visitors worldwide, further enhancing the Kingdom’s global profile.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The Boulevard District contract exemplifies Diriyah Company’s role in realizing Vision 2030 objectives, including sustainable urban development, cultural preservation, and economic growth. As Saudi Arabia continues to open its doors to global tourism, projects like the Boulevard District are vital for showcasing the Kingdom’s rich heritage and modern aspirations, fostering a vibrant community that supports long-term prosperity.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the value of the contract awarded by Diriyah Company?

A1. The contract is valued at SAR426.3 million, equivalent to US$113.6 million, for architectural design work on the Boulevard District in Diriyah.

Q2. Who awarded this contract?

A2. Diriyah Company, the developer responsible for the Diriyah project, announced the contract in a press release on January 7, 2025.

Q3. What is the scope of work under this contract?

A3. The work includes concept design, schematic design, detailed design, and construction supervision for three community areas within the Boulevard District.

Q4. Which type of firm was selected for this contract?

A4. A specialized urban development firm was chosen to serve as the multidisciplinary design consultant for the Boulevard District project.

Q5. What is the total value of the Diriyah project?

A5. The Diriyah project is valued at $63.2 billion and is a key development within Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy.

Q6. Where is the Boulevard District located?

A6. The Boulevard District is part of the larger Diriyah development, situated in the historic area northwest of Riyadh.

Q7. How large is the Diriyah development area?

A7. The Diriyah development covers an area of 14 square kilometers, featuring multiple districts and community spaces.

Q8. When was the contract announcement made?

A8. The contract announcement was made on January 7, 2025, through a press release distributed by the Saudi Press Agency.

Q9. What is the role of the selected design consultant?

A9. The consultant is responsible for architectural design and supervision in three community areas within the Boulevard District.

Q10. How does this contract align with Vision 2030?

A10. It supports Vision 2030 by promoting sustainable urban development, tourism, and economic diversification through large-scale infrastructure projects.

Q11. What will the Boulevard District provide for Diriyah?

A11. The district will become a major focal point and improve connectivity across multiple areas within Diriyah’s master plans.

Q12. Has Diriyah Company accelerated its development program?

A12. Yes, the company has accelerated its program by securing major agreements for large-scale projects with key contractors.

Q13. What types of buildings are planned in the Boulevard District?

A13. The district will include beautifully designed buildings that serve as community spaces within three designated areas.

Q14. Which Saudi agency reported this contract?

A14. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported the contract based on a press release from Diriyah Company.

Q15. What is the main objective of the Diriyah project?

A15. The main objective is to transform Diriyah into a world-class cultural, heritage, and tourism destination reflecting Saudi Arabia’s history.

Q16. How will this contract affect local employment?

A16. The project is expected to create jobs through construction, design, and future tourism operations within the Diriyah development.

Q17. Is the Boulevard District part of a larger plan?

A17. Yes, it is part of Diriyah’s comprehensive master plans, integrating multiple districts for a cohesive urban environment.

Q18. What is the significance of Diriyah historically?

A18. Diriyah is the historic birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and holds significant cultural and national importance.

Q19. Will the Boulevard District attract international visitors?

A19. Yes, it is designed to boost tourism and enhance Saudi Arabia’s global profile as a premier destination for international visitors.

Q20. What is the next step after this design contract?

A20. The selected firm will proceed with detailed design and construction supervision, advancing the Boulevard District toward construction phases.

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