Top 3 Headlines
Diriyah’s first climate-responsive Asaan Museum is coming
Zaha Hadid Architects have broken ground on the Asaan Museum in Diriyah’s historic At-Turaif district, blending Najdi architectural heritage with sustainable design. Built using locally sourced adobe, the museum will feature thick earthen walls to naturally regulate temperatures, making it climate-responsive.
As part of the Diriyah Gate development, the three-storey museum will include exhibitions, workshops, and conservation labs. Backed by the Misk Foundation, once complete, it will serve as both a learning hub and architectural landmark within the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Wadi Al Helo and Mleiha emerge as Sharjah’s top World Heritage priorities
Following the successful inscription of Al Faya on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, Sharjah Archaeology Authority has identified Wadi Al Helo and Mleiha as its next top priorities. Both sites are currently on UNESCO’s tentative list and are being positioned for future nomination due to their exceptional archaeological and cultural value. UNESCO officials have praised the UAE’s ongoing global leadership in heritage preservation and sustainable development.
Lineup announced for world’s largest comedy festival in Riyadh
Riyadh will host the first-ever Riyadh Comedy Festival from 26 September to 9 October, featuring over 50 top comedians in a major entertainment milestone for Saudi Arabia. Held in Boulevard City, the event promises two weeks of non-stop laughter with global stars including Kevin Hart, Aziz Ansari, Pete Davidson, Tom Segura, Gabriel Iglesias, and Russell Peters. Boulevard City is planning to transform into a comedy epicentre with live shows, food trucks, and immersive fan experiences.
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Noteworthy:
- Five Iron Golf will debut in Saudi Arabia in a 1,500 sqm venue by Q1 2026. It will join the global brand’s 36 existing locations, including one already live in Dubai.
- AlUla Wellness Festival is returning on 24 October to 1 November with an expanded line-up, featuring a new duathlon, half marathon, and triathlon. As well as a 24-hour endurance race, a guided cycling programme and ongoing wellness and yoga programmes.
- The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve has welcomed the birth of two Nubian ibexes, a species classified as vulnerable with less than 5,000 adults in the world. A major milestone for Saudi Arabia’s rewilding efforts.
- Driverless taxi trials in Riyadh will be opening to Uber passengers, marking a major step toward autonomous transport integration in Saudi Arabia’. As part of the trials the cars will feature a ‘safety backup driver’.
- The new E308 bus route is launching between Dubai and Sharjah, offering a direct service every 30 minutes with convenient stops and affordable fares, enhancing daily connectivity for travellers and commuters.
- Sharjah Institute for Heritage has explored cultural cooperation with Zanzibar, strengthening ties through shared heritage programmes and potential exchange initiatives.
- The foundation stone has been laid for the OMR 80 million tourism complex in Salalah, set to become a landmark development combining hotels, recreational facilities, and commercial zones in the Dhofar region.
- UAE has been announced as a host for the ACC Men’s Asia Cup 2025 from the 9 to 28 September. Eight teams will play 19 matches, supporting the other host nation India.
- Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Hospitality has hosted 1,401 events (up 6.7%) in H1, attracting 527,000 guests (up 11.8% in guest participation) reinforcing its role as a top-tier destination for exhibitions, conferences, and hospitality services.
- Egypt‘s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities has met with over 20 newly appointed ambassadors and consuls that will be representing Egypt oversees to align tourism with diplomatic efforts and boost the country’s international presence.
