Riyadh University of Arts Will Open Its Doors to Creatives in 2026

The Riyadh University of Arts (RUA), the MENA region's first cultural university, is scheduled to open in 2026 in Riyadh’s Irqah district. Designed as a hub for cultural education, research, and creative training, the institution is part of ongoing efforts to expand the Kingdom’s cultural sector under Vision 2030.

The university will eventually comprise 13 colleges across disciplines, including theatre, music, film, architecture, fashion, culinary arts, literature, visual arts, cultural management, and heritage studies. The first to admit students will be the College of Theatre and Performing Arts, the College of Music, and the College of Film.

Academic offerings will range from short courses and diplomas to bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with curricula and research developed in collaboration with international partners. Scholarships will also be available for outstanding cultural talent.

Projections indicate that by 2040, RUA could graduate up to 30,000 students and train 1,500 teachers, supporting a sector expected to grow by 7% annually and generate 300,000 jobs by 2030. The university also aims to be ranked among the top 50 global arts and culture institutions.