Rowad Modern Engineering has completed the design and execution of the Ministry of Culture headquarters in Diriyah, a landmark project that integrates contemporary architecture with Saudi Arabia’s historical identity. The facility spans 36,000 square meters and was delivered in 10 months, with approximately 2,400 professionals working across multiple disciplines.
The project employed Building Information Modeling (BIM) methodologies throughout its lifecycle to ensure coordination and precision. Sustainability measures were integrated in accordance with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. The Ministry of Culture headquarters achieved LEED Gold certification, reflecting its environmental performance credentials across energy efficiency, water and material optimization, and indoor environmental quality.
Strategic Location and Cultural Significance
The headquarters sits in Diriyah’s heart, near the At-Turaif District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Diriyah, the birthplace of the First Saudi State, provides the project with distinctive symbolic and cultural value. The location aligns with national strategic priorities under Saudi Vision 2030, reinforcing the institutional presence of the cultural sector while strengthening its connection to the Kingdom’s historical roots.
Architectural Design and Heritage Integration
The headquarters draws inspiration from traditional Najdi design principles, reflected in its building forms, materials, and color palette. These elements are reinterpreted within a contemporary architectural framework that achieves balance between authenticity and modernity. The project integrates carefully into Diriyah’s urban fabric, embodying a vision of reviving and celebrating Najdi architectural heritage in a modern institutional context.
Project Scope and Execution Standards
The execution scope covered all essential disciplines required to deliver the project in compliance with the highest Saudi and international standards. Work included civil and architectural components, mechanical systems and building management systems, electrical infrastructure, audiovisual and low-current systems, and furnishing works. All execution was conducted according to approved specifications and regulatory requirements.
“This project reflects the artistic and engineering value that Rowad Modern Engineering delivers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our approach is grounded in disciplined execution, robust technical governance, and the effective management of multidisciplinary works. When delivering projects with a strong heritage dimension, we adopt a strategic engineering methodology that prioritizes preserving the identity of the place at every stage of design and execution.”
Eng. Mohamed Mahlab, Chief Executive Officer, Rowad Modern Engineering
Vision 2030 Alignment
The project stands as a key initiative supporting the objectives of Vision 2030, contributing to the development of the cultural sector and enhancing quality of life through the creation of a cohesive and integrated urban environment. In doing so, it reinforces the Kingdom’s position as a global destination for culture, heritage, and creativity. The completion of this facility demonstrates the feasibility of combining contemporary engineering standards with preservation of historical context in major institutional projects.
Eng. Mohamed Fawzy, General Manager of Rowad Modern Engineering in Saudi Arabia, stated the company completed the design and execution within a record timeframe, with the project engaging 2,400 professionals across multiple workstreams. The execution represented a fully integrated delivery of architectural and electromechanical works executed to the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and sustainability.
