Diriyah Company has awarded a major $1.53 billion EPC contract to Branch of China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. for the construction of the Arena Block, one of the flagship developments in the heart of Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. This significant award marks continued progress in the country’s Vision 2030 urban transformation.
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Key Highlights:
- Project: Arena Block Development in Diriyah
- Client: Diriyah Company
- Contractor: China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd. (CHEC)
- Value: $1.53 billion (SAR 5.75 billion)
- Features: Diriyah Arena, 3 office buildings, 4,000+ parking spaces
- Arena Capacity: 20,000 spectators
- Design Architects: HKS Inc. (Arena), John McAslan + Partners (Office)
- Gross Floor Area: Arena – 74,000 sqm | Office – 114,000 sqm
The Arena Block will include:
- Diriyah Arena: A multi-purpose indoor arena with a 74,000 sqm GFA and 20,000-seat capacity, designed to host concerts, sports, esports, exhibitions, and live shows.
- Three mixed-use office buildings covering 114,000 sqm, fitted with modern infrastructure.
- A large parking facility with 4,000+ spaces to support the complex.
Designed by HKS Inc., the Diriyah Arena blends traditional Najdi architecture with modern forms, inspired by the natural geology of Diriyah. It is intended to become a global destination for entertainment and culture.
Statements from Leadership:
“The Diriyah Arena will be a landmark venue that brings global attention to Diriyah and supports the Kingdom’s cultural and entertainment ambitions under Vision 2030.”
Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company
“This contract marks a key milestone for CHEC in Saudi Arabia. We’re proud to contribute our global expertise to such a landmark project aligned with Vision 2030.”
Yang Zhiyuan, CEO, CHEC Middle East
This is the second major contract awarded by Diriyah Company to CHEC. In December 2024, the company secured a $202.2 million (SAR 758.5 million) deal for bulk excavation works.
Once complete, the Diriyah Arena will join other world-class cultural assets in Diriyah including:
- Royal Diriyah Opera House
- Nine museums
- Art and cultural academies
The wider Diriyah master plan, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), spans 14 sq. km, aiming to:
- House ~100,000 residents
- Support 178,000+ jobs
- Attract 50 million annual visitors
- Contribute ~$18.6 billion (SAR 70 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s GDP
This project reinforces Diriyah’s position as a global cultural capital, showcasing Saudi heritage, architecture, and sustainable urban development.
Also Read: Bechtel Awarded PMC Contract for World Expo 2030 in Riyadh
I am a Professional Civil & Structural Engineer having more than 4 years of experience in Engineering, Procurement and Construction industry. Here i sharing the latest updates of EPC Projects and Construction News.