Riyadh Shortlisted for World Design Capital 2026

After a heated battle among global capitals, Riyadh has been shortlisted for the World Design Capital (WDC) 2026 designation, according to state news agency SPA.

The World Design Organisation is scheduled to make its final decision in September and will include Riyadh among the two finalists.

Every two years, the WDC is established to highlight the best urban design strategies for raising quality of life.

“Riyadh’s bid for the WDC aims to consolidate its global reputation as a pioneering hub for design, creativity, and innovation to attract tourism and investment and showcase the city’s achievements worldwide,” read the SPA report.

“It also seeks to expand communication with an international network of expertise in design and employing innovation to boost economic, social, cultural, and environmental development,” it added.