Riyadh Creative District Takes Off with Landmark KAFD Agreement
Riyadh – The Riyadh Creative District (RCD) is set to come alive after the King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) signed a landmark lease agreement with the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), marking the launch of the district’s first phase.
Under the agreement, RCRC will lease three prominent buildings within KAFD to host RCD’s initial operations, establishing the district as a premier hub for media, cultural, and creative technology enterprises. The initiative directly supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to position Riyadh as a global destination for innovation, creativity, and cultural exchange.
Mohammed Al-Sudairy, acting CEO of KAFD DMC, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “This agreement underscores KAFD’s commitment to shaping the industries of tomorrow. By bringing together creative thinkers, entrepreneurs, and cultural institutions in one dynamic space, we are opening doors for emerging talent and strengthening Riyadh’s position as a leading global hub for creativity and innovation.”
Mazen Tammar, vice president of City Marketing and Investment Promotion at RCRC, emphasized that hosting RCD’s first phase within KAFD reflects the shared vision of fostering an ecosystem where local talent thrives alongside international partners. “This initiative will empower the creative community, attract global collaborators, and advance Riyadh’s role as both a cultural and economic powerhouse,” he said.
The Riyadh Creative District, launched earlier this year under the patronage of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has already begun drawing international institutions to the city. A key milestone was achieved when Italy’s renowned fashion school, Instituto Marangoni, opened its Riyadh campus within the district, signaling strong global interest in the initiative.
The project aims to unite Saudi and international talent in content creation, cultural exchange, and innovative enterprises, supporting Riyadh’s transformation into a world-class creative city. RCD is expected to provide state-of-the-art facilities, incubation spaces, and networking opportunities for startups and established companies alike, fostering collaboration across media, design, arts, and technology sectors.
Experts and stakeholders see the district as a game-changer for the local creative economy. “Riyadh Creative District is not just a project—it is a platform for shaping the future of culture, innovation, and economic diversification in Saudi Arabia,” said a city planning official.
With the first phase now underway, Riyadh is set to become a magnet for talent and investment in the creative industries, aligning with the kingdom’s long-term strategic goals. The initiative demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation-led growth, while showcasing the city’s ambition to lead the region in culture, media, and technology.
