Diriyah Biennale Foundation Shortlists Four Studios for AlMusalla Prize 2027
- 4 days ago
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RIYADH, June 3 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — The Diriyah Biennale Foundation announced four architecture studios shortlisted for the AlMusalla Prize 2027, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The prize, launched in 2024, invites architects to reimagine spaces of worship through the design of an adaptable musalla for prayer and contemplation.
The shortlisted studios are Al-Jawad Pike from the United Kingdom, Civil Architecture from Bahrain and Kuwait, MILLIØNS from the United States, and NEW SOUTH from France.
The winning musalla will be built at the Islamic Arts Biennale site at the Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, before being relocated permanently to JAX District in Diriyah.
The third edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale is scheduled to open on November 1, 2027.
Diriyah Biennale Foundation CEO Aya Al-Bakree said the prize reflected growing international interest in places of contemplation that honor heritage while addressing contemporary needs.
The final evaluation will be conducted by a specialized jury chaired by Prince Nawaf bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, CEO of the Architecture and Design Commission at the Saudi Ministry of Culture.
Prince Nawaf said the jury would look for a proposal with material innovation, architectural integrity and a clear understanding of the sanctity of prayer space.
The structure must meet prayer requirements, remain within a maximum footprint of 20 by 20 meters and not exceed 12 meters in height.
The winning design will be announced in March 2027.
