Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) is making significant strides in shaping Saudi Arabia’s cultural and entertainment landscape with the upcoming launch of the Qiddiya Performing Arts Centre. This state-of-the-art venue, the first cultural asset of the newly announced Qiddiya City, aims to redefine creativity and become a symbol of the Kingdom’s cultural evolution. In an exclusive interview with Saudi Gazette, Majed Aldusaimani, Director of Public Relations and Media Liaison at QIC, shared insights into the vision, technological advancements, and future aspirations for the Performing Arts Centre.
Aldusaimani highlighted that the Qiddiya Performing Arts Centre goes beyond being just a venue; it is envisioned as an iconic symbol of Saudi culture and creativity. The centre will showcase future forms of performing arts by blending new technology, cutting-edge design, and artistic expression to provide visitors with a uniquely immersive experience. With its futuristic architecture and innovative approach, the centre aims to inspire a new generation of Saudis and attract audiences from around the world.
Preserving and celebrating Saudi culture is a key focus of the Performing Arts Centre. Aldusaimani emphasized the centre’s role in reflecting the rich heritage of the Kingdom. The programming at the centre will feature a blend of traditional and contemporary Saudi stories, offering a platform for young Saudi talent to express and showcase their cultural identity. The centre is set to be a leader in preserving and celebrating Saudi’s rich culture alongside its offerings in entertainment and sports.
Technological innovation plays a pivotal role in the Qiddiya Performing Arts Centre. Advanced technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be incorporated to create immersive environments for audiences. Aldusaimani highlighted the experience of a 360-degree performance where physical and digital elements merge seamlessly, pushing the boundaries of traditional theatre to offer a truly engaging and dynamic experience.
The economic impact of the Performing Arts Centre is expected to be significant. With plans to generate thousands of jobs across various categories, the centre aims to stimulate local economic growth and foster a vibrant cultural sector. The influx of new jobs will not only support the centre’s operations but also contribute to the broader Vision 2030 goals set by the Kingdom. Education is another cornerstone of the centre’s mission, with programs designed to nurture young Saudi talent and align with the Kingdom’s educational goals in the arts.
The architectural design of the Qiddiya Performing Arts Centre is a departure from traditional theatre structures, symbolizing the Kingdom’s civic identity. The design, resembling an alien craft perched on the Tuwaiq Mountains, includes illuminated blades that seamlessly integrate with the natural landscape to enhance both aesthetic and functional aspects of the venue. Sustainability is also a core principle in the centre’s design, with features such as a rooftop sky garden, green spaces, and a waterfall creating a microclimate to cool the surrounding area.
Looking towards the future, the Qiddiya Performing Arts Centre aims to become a key player in Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape. With plans to host national and international performances, the centre is poised to attract approximately 800,000 visitors annually. Collaborations with renowned international cultural institutions and artists will further enhance the centre’s offerings, establishing it as a premier destination for world-class performances. Aldusaimani emphasized the aim to make the Qiddiya Performing Arts Centre a model for cultural excellence and a key player in the Kingdom’s ongoing cultural transformation.
