HRH Princess Sara bint Mashhour Announces Asaan: Saudi Arabia’s Future Cultural Landmark
RIYADH, February 17, 2025 (SAUDI ARABIA BREAKING NEWS) – HRH Princess Sara bint Mashhour bin Abdulaziz, spouse of HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, has officially announced the launch of programming for the Misk Heritage Museum, "Asaan", a groundbreaking cultural initiative set to open in historical Diriyah in the coming years.
Backed by the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk), the museum is envisioned as a global hub for Saudi heritage, dedicated to preserving and celebrating both tangible and intangible cultural treasures. Asaan will play a crucial role in cultural sustainability, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives to safeguard and promote the Kingdom’s identity.
A Vision for Cultural Legacy
Speaking at the announcement, HRH Princess Sara, Chairperson of Asaan, emphasized the museum’s mission:
"Our goal is to cultivate a generation that takes pride in its heritage and actively works to preserve and revitalize it. Asaan will showcase the Kingdom’s rich legacy, including artifacts, customs, and societal values. This commitment reflects our national identity, connects our past with the present, and ensures that our heritage is sustained for future generations."
Spanning over 40,000 square meters, Asaan will feature a visionary design by Zaha Hadid Architects, seamlessly blending traditional Najdi architecture with modern aesthetics. The museum will house thousands of artifacts and collectibles, offering visitors interactive exhibitions and immersive storytelling experiences that bring Saudi history to life.
A Hub for Cultural Engagement and Learning
Beyond its exhibitions, Asaan will host a variety of dynamic cultural spaces, including:
Permanent exhibitions and art galleries showcasing Saudi Arabia’s artistic and historical evolution.
An arts courtyard that fosters creativity and engagement with Saudi heritage.
"Asaan’s Majlis", a dedicated space for dialogue, workshops, and heritage-focused discussions.
Conservation labs and interactive learning programs, enabling hands-on exploration of the Kingdom’s rich cultural past.
Through its partnership with the Misk Foundation, Asaan will leverage global expertise and collaborate with leading cultural institutions to ensure a world-class standard in heritage preservation.
Asaan’s Role in Saudi Vision 2030
Asaan represents a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s broader cultural transformation, reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a leader in heritage conservation and global cultural exchange. The initiative aligns with Princess Sara’s longstanding commitment to empowering individuals, particularly youth and people with disabilities, by enhancing educational and professional skills within the creative and cultural sectors.
By establishing Asaan as a center for cultural knowledge, artistic expression, and historical preservation, Saudi Arabia continues to solidify its position as a regional and global leader in heritage innovation.