Saudi Arabia is advancing its cultural development strategy with the awarding of a nearly $490 million construction contract for a major contemporary art museum in Riyadh’s historic Diriyah district. Diriyah Co., a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, announced the contract for the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA), marking a significant step in the Kingdom's efforts to integrate culture into its economic diversification and national identity initiatives.

The museum will be situated on Grand Avenue within Diriyah, which is known as Saudi Arabia’s premier historical, cultural, and lifestyle destination. The project covers an expansive area of more than 77,000 square meters, with a gross floor space of approximately 45,252 square meters. It is designed by the architectural firm Godwin Austen Johnson and has achieved Mostadam Gold certification in both design and construction phases, underscoring its commitment to sustainability.

Diriyah Co. confirmed that the construction contract has been awarded to a joint venture between Hassan Allam Construction Saudi L.L.C and Al-Bawani Co. Ltd. These firms will oversee the delivery of the museum, which is envisioned as a flagship cultural landmark supporting the development of Saudi Arabia’s creative economy.

SAMoCA is intended to play a central role in promoting and preserving modern and contemporary Saudi art. It aims to document, research, and exhibit the work of artists across generations—from established pioneers to emerging talents. The museum will also provide a platform for cultural exchange by connecting Saudi artists with international creative communities, fostering dialogue between local and global artistic perspectives.

Operating under the Ministry of Culture, the Museums Commission manages the project. The Commission is responsible for preserving and showcasing Saudi heritage alongside global cultural treasures, expanding public engagement through education and research, and elevating the Kingdom's position within the international museum sector. According to the Commission, SAMoCA will contribute to building the Kingdom’s creative identity while supporting cultural infrastructure and the creative industries as key components of Saudi Arabia’s broader cultural and economic objectives.

The new museum is expected to become a leading center for artistic exploration, situated within the historic context of Diriyah, and will serve as an important cultural asset that highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to integrating art and heritage into its national development plans.