Diriyah witnessed luxury hotels’ groundbreaking
At the recently concluded Bashayer 2023 event, Diriyah Company unveiled a series of remarkable assets that seamlessly integrate the past, present, and future. The event showcased the opening of Wadi Hanifah, Diriyah Art Futures, and the ceremonial groundbreaking of several luxury hotels.
Diriyah, located in the heart of Riyadh, is a flagship giga-project in Saudi Arabia. This 14-square-kilometer area is being transformed into a mixed-use lifestyle destination that promotes and celebrates Saudi culture. As part of the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy, Diriyah aims to create 178,000 jobs and attract 50 million visitors annually.
The second day of the Bashayer event built on the success of the previous day’s activities. Alongside the opening of the UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif and the premier dining district Bujairi Terrace in 2022, the event witnessed the launch of additional assets that seamlessly blend the past, present, and future.
The ceremonial groundbreakings for the luxury hotel offerings marked significant milestones in the development of Diriyah. The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah, Address Diriyah, Capella Diriyah, and Four Seasons Hotel Diriyah were among the luxury hotels showcased. These high-end establishments reimagine renowned luxury brands and demonstrate Diriyah’s potential to provide unique and exceptional visitor experiences.
One of the highlights of the Bashayer event was the unveiling of Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel. This hotel, expected to greet its first guests in 2024, offers an unparalleled expression of authentic Najdi experience. Combining traditional architecture with luxurious amenities, Bab Samhan captures the essence of Diriyah.
Nestled amidst the natural beauty of Wadi Hanifah, Bujairi Terrace, and Diriyah Art Futures, Bab Samhan is conveniently located near the UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif. The hotel not only offers a luxurious stay but also provides guests with an immersive cultural experience at the heart of Diriyah.
With 106 standard guestrooms, 28 suites, and one Royal Suite, Bab Samhan ensures a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. The hotel boasts various facilities, including a lobby lounge, ballrooms, meeting rooms, a spa with an indoor swimming pool, a gym, all-day dining options, and specialty restaurants, one of which will be operated by renowned celebrity chef Michael Mina.
Diriyah has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability by completing rejuvenation works across more than 6 kilometers of Wadi Hanifah. The restoration of the ancient valley’s natural landscape, including indigenous flora and fauna, integrates urban cultural development with environmental preservation. Diriyah Company’s approach envisions a sustainable built environment that enhances the quality of life for residents, workers, and visitors to Diriyah, The City of Earth.
The Bashayer event also showcased Diriyah Art Futures, the region’s first center dedicated to new media arts. This dynamic hub for creative exchange and production further highlights Diriyah’s cultural significance. It offers exhibition spaces, educational programs exploring the intersection of arts, science, and technology, and a state-of-the-art laboratory for artists to experiment and create innovative artworks.
Furthermore, during the Bashayer 2023 event, Diriyah Company and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City unveiled plans for the Royal Diriyah Opera House. This grand project, designed in authentic Najdi architectural style and aligned with the highest sustainability standards, will occupy a prominent place in the Diriyah masterplan. With a vision to showcase Diriyah as a global hub of culture and creativity, the Royal Diriyah Opera House reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to celebrating its rich heritage.
The second day of the Bashayer event also saw the groundbreaking of four out of the 41 hotels planned for Diriyah, highlighting the progress in the hospitality sector. These hotels, inspired by Najdi architecture, seamlessly blend with the unique topography of Diriyah and embody centuries of life in the birthplace of the Kingdom.
With these groundbreaking initiatives, Diriyah continues to solidify its position as a cultural champion, offering a harmonious integration of heritage and modernity. The ongoing transformation of Diriyah into a vibrant lifestyle destination exemplifies the country’s commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 and its goal of attracting visitors from around the world.
In conclusion, Diriyah’s recent groundbreaking events, including the unveiling of luxury hotels, the Bab Samhan experience, the focus on sustainability, the establishment of Diriyah Art Futures, and the plans for the Royal Diriyah Opera House, further underscore the city’s significance as a cultural and lifestyle destination. As it continues to evolve and attract global attention, Diriyah showcases the rich heritage and ambitious vision of Saudi Arabia.
