Riyadh | BETH – March 14, 2026

A Royal Decree has been issued approving the establishment of the Riyadh University of Arts, under its own regulatory framework, with its headquarters in the city of Riyadh. The university will specialize in fields related to culture and the arts and will operate under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture.

The establishment of the university reflects the leadership’s continued commitment to developing the cultural sector and strengthening specialized education in culture and the arts. It aims to prepare national talents in various creative disciplines and provide an advanced educational environment that supports cultural activity and the growth of cultural and creative industries in the Kingdom.

Independent Institution with Specialized Programs

The Riyadh University of Arts will be an independent educational institution with full legal status and financial and administrative autonomy. It will offer specialized academic programs across a range of cultural and artistic fields.

The university is expected to align with global best practices in arts and cultural education, helping to prepare qualified national professionals capable of contributing to the development of the Kingdom’s cultural and creative sectors in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

Transitional Governance

The Royal Decree also authorized the Minister of Culture to exercise the responsibilities of the university’s Board of Trustees until the board is formally established in accordance with the university’s governing regulations.

This step is intended to ensure the completion of the necessary organizational and administrative procedures required for the university to begin its academic and educational activities.

International Academic Partnerships

The university is expected to build an advanced educational ecosystem based on academic partnerships with leading international educational institutions, enhancing academic exchange and the development of specialized programs.

Such collaborations are anticipated to strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a regional center for culture and creativity.