INNOVATION DISTRICT SPOTLIGHT 6 Diriyah, Saudi Arabia: human-centric masterplan for catalysing innovation Overview Diriyah Company – a key part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 – is catalysing innovation through thoughtful placemaking and design. The company’s overall masterplan aims to transform Riyadh’s historic Diriyah area – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – into a diverse cultural, residential and commercial hub. Smart and sustainable Diriyah’s masterplan aims to improve walkability, by combining traditional urban layouts with smart systems to improve pedestrian comfort. The plan embraces the latest innovations in mobility and parking management to enhance operational delivery and digital transformation, positioning Diriyah as a premier global destination. Public, nature-based spaces The first phase of physical infrastructure prioritizes active travel and convenience, with fully pedestrianized areas above ground and modern infrastructure below. Public spaces are central to Diriyah’s approach, improving mental health, reducing stress and elevating creative thinking – all key to inspiring innovation. These spaces are enhanced by natural elements, especially the restored Wadi Hanifah, a water channel which runs through the development, supporting green public parks and other accessible landscaped areas. Supporting creativity Diriyah’s land use supports creativity and innovation, with zones dedicated to arts, media, education, technology, music and culture. The media and innovation district will host labs and sector-specific creative spaces, while proximity to King Saud University will encourage collaboration across academia, NGOs and industry. In the northern district, creative zones will integrate residential areas to cultivate dynamic, mixed-use neighbourhoods that inspire creativity by blending everyday living with cultural and entertainment experiences. Through its physical infrastructure, Diriyah aims to achieve a balance between Saudi Arabia’s rich traditional culture and contemporary lifestyle and placemaking. In doing so with a human-centric approach, Diriyah Company believes innovation will come naturally. Source: Diriyah Company.52 Image credit: Diriyah Company. Innovation Ecosystems: A Toolkit of Principles and Best Practice 30

Innovation Ecosystems 2025