Rays of creativity: Noor Riyadh concludes after bright run

RIYADH: The Royal Commission for Riyadh City’s board of directors has announced the launch of the “Riyadh Creative District,” the Saudi Press Agency reported on Thursday.

The initiative aims to position Riyadh as a global creative and media hub while reinforcing the Kingdom’s leadership in the creative economy, SPA said.

The new project is set to become a cornerstone in Riyadh’s evolution into a world-class metropolis, integrating with the capital’s major development initiatives.

It aims to foster a thriving ecosystem where creative minds, industry leaders, and emerging talent can collaborate to develop content and new ideas, drive cultural and technological advancements, and contribute to the Kingdom’s Gross Domestic Product.

The Creative District aligns with Saudi Arabia’s long-term strategic vision by emphasizing the role of media, technology, culture, and innovation in economic diversification and sustainable growth.

The CEO of RCRC Ibrahim Mohammed Al-Sultan thanked the Kingdom’s leadership for its continued support of the commission’s projects.

“The Riyadh Creative District is designed to be a vital extension of the capital’s creative, cultural, and economic landscape, reinforcing the city’s status as a dynamic hub for content creation and innovation,” he said.

“Through this initiative, we are not only establishing an inspiring space for creative industries to thrive, but also providing a gateway for global talent to engage with the Kingdom’s creative economy.

“This initiative embodies Saudi Arabia’s forward-looking vision to cultivate a knowledge-based society, and develop a globally integrated creative sector that generates sustainable economic and social impact”, the CEO added.

A milestone in the project’s launch is the signing of a strategic partnership agreement between RCRC and King Abdullah Financial District, ensuring a structured and integrated approach to its implementation.

The collaboration is expected to catalyze the expansion of the creative industries in Saudi Arabia, bridging the gap between local and international expertise and fostering cross-sector innovation.

The creative district is set to redefine the role of creativity in economic development, by offering a dynamic platform that connects designers, artists, entrepreneurs, and technology pioneers.

It will serve as an incubator for new business models, cultural enterprises, and digital transformation projects, reinforcing Riyadh’s position as the regional epicenter for creative excellence, SPA said.

Apart from GDP contributions, the district will play a crucial role in cultural exchange and community engagement by hosting interactive programs, industry events, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that empower emerging talent and facilitate the exchange of ideas.

Its impact is expected to extend beyond Riyadh, influencing the broader Middle Eastern creative ecosystem and elevating the Kingdom’s standing as a destination for investment in the creative economy.

The district also underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering a globally competitive creative sector, that not only enhances the quality of life but also drives innovation-led economic transformation.

By offering a supportive environment for creatives, startups, and established enterprises, the district is poised to shape the future of creative industries in Saudi Arabia, offering new employment opportunities, accelerating digital adoption, and laying the groundwork for a knowledge-driven economy.

With a focus on sustainability and long-term impact, the creative district will also contribute to Riyadh’s broader urban transformation, integrating smart infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable design principles to create an environment where creativity and innovation can flourish.

The district will also help attract both regional and international investment in the creative industries, ensuring that Saudi Arabia remains at the forefront of global creative and cultural advancements.