In a major step forward for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Diriyah Company has awarded a US$1.4 billion construction contract to bring the Royal Diriyah Opera House and its surrounding developments to life. The project will be delivered by a powerhouse joint venture between El Seif Engineering Contracting Co. Ltd. (ESEC), China State Construction Engineering Corporation Ltd. (CSCEC), and Midmac Construction Co. Ltd. The deal was signed during a formal ceremony attended by the joint venture partners, with Diriyah Company Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo leading the proceedings. Moreover, the announcement marks a key milestone in transforming Diriyah into a global cultural and tourism destination.
Amenities at the Royal Diriyah Opera House
Set to become the crown jewel of the Kingdom’s performing arts scene, the Royal Diriyah Opera House promises to be both a cultural and architectural icon. Additionally, it was designed by world-renowned Norwegian architects Snøhetta, the building blends modern elegance with traditional Najdi aesthetics, using locally sourced materials like stone, palm, and earth. It will also feture cutting-edge sustainability measures, including water conservation systems, passive cooling techniques, and intelligent natural lighting. Inside, the main auditorium will seat 2,000 guests, complemented by a 450-seat studio theatre. Additionally, a rooftop amphitheatre with room for another 450. With a total seating capacity of 3,100, the venue will host everything from grand opera productions to global concerts and theatrical performances.
Also Read Firms Prepare Bids for Saudi Arabia’s 2KM Tower Project in Riyadh
Project Overview
Location: Diriyah, Saudi Arabia
Project cost: US$1.4 billion
Contractors: El Seif Engineering Contracting Co. Ltd. (ESEC), China State Construction Engineering Corporation Ltd. (CSCEC), and Midmac Construction Co. Ltd.
Architects: Snøhetta
Total seating capacity: 3,100
Project scope: 45,000 square meters
Also Read DP World and Mawani Inaugurate $800 Million Jeddah South Container Terminal in Saudi Arabia
Beyond the opera house itself, the contract includes the development of a luxury five-star hotel and a high-end residential complex, all within the broader opera district. These additions are set to elevate Diriyah’s urban fabric and reinforce its role as a magnet for culture, luxury, and innovation. Oversight of the opera house will fall under the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.
Backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Diriyah is one of the largest and most ambitious urban regeneration projects in the world. Once complete, it will be home to nearly 100,000 residents and provide tens of thousands of jobs across creative and knowledge-based industries. What’s more, it is expected to attract 50 million visitors annually and generate around SAR70 billion ($18.6 billion) for Saudi Arabia’s GDP, firmly positioning Diriyah as a global cultural and economic powerhouse.
Also Read Orascom, Técnicas JV bags construction contract for Saudi’s 3GW QIPP Power Plant expansion
