Jabal AlQurain Avenue: A New Hub for Entrepreneurs in Diriyah

Diriyah Company has recently unveiled Jabal AlQurain Avenue, a groundbreaking multidisciplinary incubator aimed at fostering Saudi and regional entrepreneurs, particularly in the retail and food-and-beverage sectors. This initiative is set to create a vibrant ecosystem for emerging talent, providing them with the resources and space needed to thrive.

A Dynamic Space for Startups

Jabal AlQurain Avenue is designed to cater specifically to startups and growing businesses. It offers a variety of spaces that encourage innovation and creativity, allowing entrepreneurs to develop unique brand concepts. This initiative aims to enhance the overall experience for both Diriyah residents and visitors, making it a focal point for cultural and commercial activities.

Part of the Qurain Cultural District

The new avenue is a key component of the larger Qurain Cultural District, which was announced in 2024. This district is envisioned as a lively cultural and lifestyle hub, integrating retail, dining, and artistic experiences. In addition to shops and restaurants featuring local Saudi products, the district will also house offices and residences, creating a comprehensive environment where people can live, work, and explore all in one location.

Key Features of Jabal AlQurain Avenue

The fully pedestrianized avenue will boast:

• 56 retail units with a total gross leasable area of 7,301 square meters.
• 15 restaurant and café units, offering 2,248 square meters of gross leasable area.
• 102 residential units and 40 office spaces.
• A variety of academies and institutes dedicated to Saudi heritage and culture.

Commitment to Nurturing Talent

Jerry Inzerillo, the Group CEO of Diriyah Company, emphasized the significance of Jabal AlQurain Avenue in supporting local talent. He stated, “This avenue marks an important step in our ongoing commitment to making Diriyah a place that nurtures Saudi talent, innovation, and creativity.” Inzerillo highlighted the wealth of creative ideas and initiatives present among Saudi entrepreneurs, particularly in Riyadh and Diriyah.

The avenue aims to provide an environment conducive to inspiring entrepreneurial ideas, featuring opportunities for learning and participation in various academies focused on heritage and culture.

A Major Development Project

Jabal AlQurain Avenue is part of the broader Qurain Cultural District, where the foundation stone was laid in November 2024. This ambitious project, valued at SR5.8 billion (approximately $1.55 billion), is a collaborative effort between Nesma and Partners Contracting Co. UJSC and MAN Enterprise Al-Saudia LLC.

The cultural district will also include three luxury hotels and branded residences: the Ritz-Carlton Diriyah, Address Diriyah, and Four Seasons Diriyah, offering a total of over 500 rooms and residences.

Expanding the Vision for Diriyah

The newly launched avenue is a significant addition to the expansive Diriyah project, which covers 14 square kilometers and features 566,000 square meters of retail space. Diriyah is projected to contribute approximately SR70 billion (around $18.6 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s GDP and create 180,000 jobs, with plans to accommodate around 100,000 residents.

This project will also provide office space for thousands of professionals across various sectors, including technology, media, arts, and education. Additionally, it will feature museums, a university, the Royal Diriyah Opera House, Diriyah Arena, and nearly 40 world-class resorts and hotels. Notably, the Royal Golf Club Wadi Safar will include a championship course designed by Greg Norman, alongside the Royal Equestrian and Polo Club.

Jabal AlQurain Avenue represents a significant step forward in Diriyah’s vision of becoming a leading cultural and economic hub, fostering innovation and creativity while celebrating Saudi heritage.