King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra)

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is a multidimensional cultural and creative destination, an inspiring space for self-discovery, and a catalyst for innovation and creativity. The center also seeks to support the knowledge economy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

It contributes to the development of all cultural and cognitive fronts by opening up to various world cultures, through providing interactive workshops, shows, and activities specifically designed to enrich the community across all age groups. The center opened its doors to visitors in 2018; becoming a platform for creativity, where talents gather to learn and share ideas.

The building was designed by the Norwegian architectural firm "Snøhetta," with the structure taking the form of a collection of stones that symbolize unity when gathered together. The building appears as a stunning assembly of massive rocks.

Its symbolism lies in the temporal aspect of the building's interior design: the floors below ground level represent the authenticity of the past, at ground level we see the renaissance of the present, while the towering Knowledge Tower represents the promising future.