Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — The Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) and Golf Saudi on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), confirming their intent to collaborate on the development of a new Greg Norman 27-hole championship golf course in Diriyah, Jewel of the Kingdom.

In 2019, Diriyah Gate Development Authority signed a landmark deal with the Greg Norman Golf Course Design (GNGCD) Company, the world’s premier signature golf course design firm, at the Open Hearts, Open Doors event on Sept. 27 that introduced the splendors of Diriyah to the world.

The 27-hole Golf Course is being designed as part of an exclusive new residential district (developed by DGDA) which will be known as Wadi Safar in a valley in the north-west of the center of Riyadh, in Diriyah.

The MoU, which was signed in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) in the presence of Yasir Al-Rumayyan, chairman of Golf Saudi and Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of DGDA, took place during the Golf Saudi Summit; an innovative, global golf business event, created by the Saudi Golf Federation and Golf Saudi, bringing together leaders of the industry and key stakeholders.

The memorandum outlined Golf Saudi’s intent to work alongside DGDA in the development of the signature Greg Norman championship golf course, providing technical and management services as an expert in the field. The two entities will form a joint working team, comprising of specialists from both sides to activate areas of collaboration as envisioned in the memorandum.

Under this framework, DGDA and Golf Saudi have signed a memorandum of understanding with the aim to reinforce sports and increase leisure and tourism activities for Saudi citizens, residents, and tourists.

“Diriyah is set to become a global cultural icon and one of the world’s greatest gathering places. A mixed-use traditional urban community which celebrates the rich cultural history of Saudi Arabia. Diriyah, Riyadh’s new global cultural and lifestyle destination, will be home to leading luxury and lifestyle retail brands as well as over 100 cafes and restaurants and world-class events.

With Saudi Arabia swiftly establishing itself as one of the world’s most dynamic golf markets, we are incredibly excited about our partnership which fits into our mission to make Diriyah a global icon and a must-visit destination,” said CEO of Diriyah Gate Development Authority.

Al-Rumayyan said: “This partnership demonstrates the ambition of the Kingdom to become a global destination of interest attracting international visitors and we are delighted to be part of it through our partnership with Diriyah Gate Development Authority to bring this sport to life.”

The Kingdom’s impressive Vision 2030 recognizes the importance of encouraging physical and social well-being and a healthy lifestyle in reinforcing the nation’s ambition of creating a vibrant society with fulfilling lives. Saudi Arabia is making huge strides in the promotion of sports and athleticism in recent years with world-class events including the 2020 Dakar Rally and the Spanish Super Cup.

DGDA’s role in fueling the Kingdom’s distinction in sport includes hosting the 2018 and 2019 Formula E auto racing events and the heavyweight title boxing match between Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz Jr. in December 2019.