Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Tourism HQ celebrates culture, design, and Vision 2030.
In the heart of Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter, the new Ministry of Tourism headquarters is much more than an administrative building, it’s a bold statement about identity, progress, and cultural pride. Designed by AAID and brought to life by SBCM, the HQ combines traditional Saudi elements with modern architecture, serving as a physical expression of Vision 2030.
A Living Vision of Saudi Arabia
From the moment visitors step inside, they are taken on a journey through Saudi Arabia’s rich geography and diverse heritage. The design is rooted in a theme of “Wanderlust,” celebrating all 13 of the Kingdom’s regions through an imaginative and layered architectural narrative.
Reimagining Government Space
The headquarters spans 17,000 sqm across three interconnected buildings, A, B, and C. Each building houses state-of-the-art facilities, including executive offices, IT infrastructure, meeting rooms, and a business intelligence hub.
But this isn’t your standard office complex. With each floor dedicated to a specific region of Saudi Arabia, the experience of working in or visiting the Ministry is immersive. Atriums flood the interiors with light and act as shared spaces for people and ideas to circulate.
Inspired by Place and Tradition
The design pulls inspiration directly from Saudi Arabia’s landscapes, materials, and historical motifs:
- Building A showcases triple-height metal curtains reflecting the blues and corals of the Red Sea, representing Makkah, Tabuk, and Madinah.
- Building B is a green oasis inspired by Jazan’s mountainous terrain and Al Baha’s lush forestry.
- Building C uses metalwork and cascading features to highlight Asir’s jacaranda trees and Najran’s architectural detail, including a dramatic Janbiya dagger sculpture wrapping around the main staircase.
Throughout the buildings, parametric geometries nod to Sadu weaving, and traditional wooden screens reinterpret Jeddah’s Al-Balad style.
Rich Materials, Local Roots
The project incorporates more than 400 different finishes, many of them locally sourced. Saudi limestone, timber veneers, plush textiles, and custom carpets all speak to regional identity. A particular design highlight is the bespoke metal curtain in oceanic tones, linking themes from coast to coast.
Each material and texture has been carefully selected not only for its beauty but for its cultural meaning—making the space feel both grounded and visionary.
Built with Sustainability in Mind
Environmental responsibility was a priority from the beginning. Most materials were sourced from within the Kingdom, reducing transport emissions and supporting local industries. Much of the furniture was also procured locally, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to economic sustainability alongside environmental goals.
This commitment extends into the building’s operation as well, where design choices were made to reduce energy consumption and promote natural airflow and lighting.
A Model for the Future
The Ministry of Tourism HQ sets a new benchmark for public architecture in Saudi Arabia. It’s a space that functions seamlessly as a workplace but also stands as a cultural landmark, one that respects the past while embracing the future.
By turning a government office into a living gallery of Saudi heritage, the Ministry has not only elevated its brand but also created an inspiring daily environment for its team. It’s proof that visionary public buildings can be as emotionally powerful as they are efficient.
As Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its economy and open its doors to the world, the Ministry of Tourism HQ offers a compelling glimpse of what thoughtful, culture-driven development can achieve.
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