Diriyah Company, the developer behind the transformation of Diriyah, The City of Earth, has awarded a $202.2 million contract to China Harbour Engineering Company for bulk excavation work in the second phase of the Diriyah project. The Diriyah Company oversees the Diriyah and Wadi Safar masterplans, which include over 40 hotels, arts districts, museums, and sports venues on the outskirts of Riyadh.

The excavation will cover a significant portion of the second phase, which spans approximately 6.3 square kilometers of the total 14 square kilometers of development area. More than 600 heavy machines will be deployed to shape the site, preparing it for world-class developments like the Royal Diriyah Opera House and the 20,000-seat Diriyah Arena.

The Diriyah Company is committed to circular economy principles, reusing materials from the excavation site for road bases, landscaping, and backfill, in line with international sustainability guidelines. The company aims to enhance environmental performance across the community and building levels by integrating innovative technologies and sustainability practices into all projects.

“We are excited to begin bulk excavation works in the second phase of the Diriyah project, marking another key milestone in the development of The City of Earth,” said Jerry Inzerillo, Group CEO of Diriyah Company. “Progressing ahead of schedule, this excavation will enable smooth and efficient development of major cultural assets that will attract millions of visitors annually to Diriyah and inspire the world. As we move forward in creating a premier live-work-play destination, we encourage partners to join us on this journey.”

Yang Zhiyuan, CEO of China Harbour Engineering Company, added, “We are honored to collaborate with Diriyah Company on the execution of the Bulk Excavation Works project. We are confident in the success of this project, integrating the advantages of global resources, technical strength, equipment resources and an experienced management team. We will focus on environmental protection awareness and sustainable development concepts during implementation, ensuring the timely delivery of the project, contributing to the preservation of Diriyah’s heritage, cultural exchange and the development goals of Saudi Vision 2030.”

This contract is the latest awarded by Diriyah Company this year, following a $1.55 billion joint venture for the Qurain Cultural District in November, a $2.08 billion contract for the Northern District in July, and a $2.13 billion contract for luxury hotels and the Royal Diriyah Equestrian & Polo Club in Wadi Safar, also in July.