Saudi Arabia inaugurates Black Gold Museum at KAPSARC
- Apr 7
- 1 min read
New museum explores oil’s global impact through modern and contemporary art
RIYADH, April 7, Saudi Arabia Breaking News — Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman bin Abdulaziz and Culture Minister Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan inaugurated the Black Gold Museum at the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center, or KAPSARC, marking a new addition to Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape.
The museum is described as the first permanent institution of its kind dedicated to exploring the history and impact of oil through modern and contemporary art.
Prince Abdulaziz said the project was the result of cooperation between the cultural sector, represented by the Museums Commission, and the energy sector, represented by KAPSARC, with the aim of presenting a comprehensive narrative on oil and its far-reaching effect on societies and everyday life.
Prince Bader said the museum marked an important milestone in the arts sector and global cultural discourse, describing it as a new space for reflection, critical thought and engagement with the role of culture in shaping understanding of the world.
The museum features a permanent collection of more than 350 artworks from over 30 countries by more than 170 Saudi and international artists, alongside large-scale installations, photography and historical documentation examining how oil has shaped economies, societies and daily life.
It is organized into four sections — Encounter, Dreams, Doubts and Visions — and is housed at KAPSARC in a building designed by Zaha Hadid, with interiors by DaeWha Kang Design. The museum is supported by the Quality of Life Program under Saudi Vision 2030.
