Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) has unveiled the masterplan for its 7.1 million sqm megaproject coming up on the western side of the capital, Riyadh.

Speaking during an industry event, Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority, said that the key highlights of the project include the setting up of the world’s largest Islamic museum, the restoration of the historic Wadi Hanifa, which will include the planting more than one million indigenous Diriyah date trees, and the transformation of Wadi Safar into a residential and hospitality district.

In a statement, DGDA said that Inzerillo’s speech and presentation at the event focused on the link between entertainment and culture and the steps the authority is taking, in collaboration with the direct leadership of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, to open the doors of Diriyah to the rest of the world.

He also added that the Diriyah masterplan gives emphasis on the kingdom’s three goals – to preserve, develop and celebrate the much-loved home of Saudi culture.

Considered one of the kingdom’s most important historical sites and the capital of the first Saudi state, Diriyah is home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of At Turaif, a mud-brick city that stands as the birthplace of the first Saudi state.

“With hospitality, leisure and entertainment assets in our development plans, we’re hoping to attract millions of tourists who will fall in love with Diriyah, as there is only one Diriyah,” Inzerillo added.

DGDA will start work on the mega development next month, following the approval of three detailed plans for the development of Diriyah by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

It will oversee the restoration of Diriyah and develop a number of major new historical and tourism assets including museums, academic institutions and edutainment facilities, as well as resorts, restaurants, wellness facilities and high-end retail outlets, he concluded.