Saudi Arabia could soon be welcoming the likes of Le Nozze di Figaro, La Trivata and Rigoletto to the stage after it was announced that the country’s first opera house will open in Riyadh.
Revealed earlier this month, The Royal Diriyah Opera House will be the first of its kind in the Kingdom when it opens in 2028 and will be located in the historical town of Diriyah, near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of At Turaif in the northeast of Riyadh.
Architecturally-wise, the Opera House will encompass some 45,000 square metres with the emphasis on a Naidi-style design that is seen throughout the area of Diriyah. Set to be constructed by Norwegian firm, Snøhetta, the building will also be characterised by its intricate details and mudbrick-inspired construction method that will showcase a cluster of buildings with open passageways to help shield guests from intense heat.
The news comes shortly after The Phantom of The Opera made its debut in Riyadh, at The Arena Riyadh, and it is hoped The Royal Diriyah Opera House will be the setting for a diverse programme of cultural performances and shows as Saudi Arabia looks to continue to attract tourists and new residents to its capital city through its Vision 2030 project.
“The announcement of the Royal Diriyah Opera House embodies our aspirations for Riyadh to be a city at the forefront of global cultural and architectural innovation,” says His Excellency Ibrahim Al-Sultan, Minister of State, Member of the Council of Ministers, and CEO of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City. “As the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh’s selection as the host city for Expo 2030 is a testament to our dynamic progress and vision for the future. The Royal Diriyah Opera House will be a cornerstone in this journey, showcasing the unique blend of our rich heritage and modern innovation. This iconic structure symbolises our commitment to creating a vibrant cultural hub that resonates with the spirit of Riyadh and positions the city as a leading destination for cultural and architectural excellence on the international stage.”
