Zaha Hadid Architects breaks ground on Asaan Museum in Diriyah, blending Najdi heritage with sustainable, future-facing cultural design. Robbie Hodges reports 

Construction has officially commenced on the Asaan Museum, a new cultural landmark in the historic At-Turaif district of Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the project brings together heritage preservation and contemporary architectural innovation in one of the Kingdom’s most storied locations.

Diriyah, often referred to as the birthplace of Saudi Arabia, is undergoing a significant transformation as part of the ambitious Diriyah Gate development, a masterplan that aims to restore and expand the historic area while promoting walkability, sustainability and cultural tourism. The Asaan Museum will play a central role in this regeneration.

Deriving its name from the Arabic word for “inheritance passed down through generations,” the Asaan Museum is envisioned as a bridge between past and future. The project aims to reflect the character of Diriyah’s ancient mud-brick architecture while providing a new public space for learning, reflection, and cultural exchange.

Located in At-Turaif, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010, the museum is surrounded by more than 600 years of built history. The district is known for its distinct Najdi architecture, a regional style that uses adobe construction, narrow alleyways and shaded courtyards to respond to the hot desert climate.

The Asaan Museum is Zaha Hadid Architects’ first project to incorporate adobe as a primary building material. Constructed from locally sourced clay mud-bricks, the three-storey museum has been designed to harmonise with its surroundings, echoing the scale and materials of the surrounding structures. Thick earthen walls will offer high thermal insulation and help regulate internal temperatures naturally, reducing the need for artificial cooling in the arid climate.

In addition to its architectural significance, the museum will house a wide-ranging cultural programme. Supported by the Misk Foundation (a non-profit organisation focused on education, culture and youth development) the museum will offer interactive exhibitions, immersive displays, educational workshops and cultural events.

Integrated conservation labs will allow for the ongoing restoration of archaeological finds, enabling the site to function not just as a display space, but as an active centre for heritage preservation.

The Asaan Museum forms part of a wider push to diversify Saudi Arabia’s tourism offerings and preserve national heritage as part of Vision 2030, the country’s strategic plan to reduce its reliance on oil and position itself as a global cultural destination. 

While the museum will undoubtedly draw attention for its architectural pedigree, its deeper value lies in its commitment to cultural sustainability. “Asaan underscores its role in connecting past and present,” say the architects, who have integrated traditional craftsmanship with modern planning throughout the build.

There is no confirmed opening date yet, but construction is now underway. Once complete, the Asaan Museum is expected to become a key attraction in Diriyah, offering visitors a tangible link to the past and a bold statement of future intent.