- Ministry of Culture partners with the Royal College of Art to strengthen arts and creative education in Saudi Arabia
- Joint academic programs to build creative skills and job readiness, preparing students for careers in the cultural and creative sectors
- Focus on architecture, design, and visual arts, blending Saudi heritage with global best practices
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture has signed a strategic partnership with the Royal College of Art (RCA) to support the academic development of the Riyadh University of Arts (RUA). The collaboration aims to strengthen creative education, develop job-ready skills, and promote cultural exchange.
The agreement covers RUA’s College of Architecture and Design and College of Visual Arts and Photography. It was signed at the opening of the third Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale at the JAX creative district in Riyadh. The ceremony brought together senior leaders from both institutions, reflecting the growing importance of arts education in the Kingdom.
Under the partnership, RCA will work closely with RUA to co-design undergraduate, postgraduate, and foundation programs. These programs will focus on architecture, urban design, design, and visual arts. The goal is to blend Saudi cultural heritage with modern global practices, giving students skills that match international standards.
The programs will prepare students for careers in the creative economy, including design, architecture, visual arts, and cultural industries. Students will gain practical training, global exposure, and creative thinking skills that support employability and entrepreneurship.
Founded in London in 1837, RCA is widely recognized as a global leader in art and design education. Its collaboration with RUA will help bring world-class academic expertise to Saudi Arabia while supporting local talent development.
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This partnership is part of a wider effort by RUA to work with leading international institutions. In recent months, the university has announced collaborations with universities in the US, UK, and Europe across film, heritage studies, performing arts, and cultural management.
Launched in 2025, Riyadh University of Arts is positioned as a key pillar of Saudi Arabia’s creative and cultural future. It aims to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and vision needed to drive innovation, create jobs, and grow the Kingdom’s creative economy.
