Saudi Arabia is undergoing an extraordinary transformation, stepping boldly into a future shaped by innovation, creativity, and opportunity. Guided by Vision 2030, the Kingdom is diversifying its economy beyond oil, with significant investments in tourism, culture, technology, and sustainability. This national evolution is redefining Saudi Arabia's identity on the global stage, blending modern progress with deep-rooted heritage.
Across the country, ambitious initiatives are revitalizing cities and landscapes, honoring the past while embracing the future. Historic sites are being preserved, new urban developments are emerging, and cultural projects are flourishing—all working together to create a contemporary Saudi Arabia that is both forward-thinking and proud of its traditions. As the Kingdom grows into a global hub for art and creativity, it provides new platforms for artists, architects, and designers to contribute to its evolving landscape.
As part of Saudi Arabia's broader cultural transformation, the Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge, organized by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative (an initiative by Al Fozan Social Foundation), provides a platform for architects and artists to shape the Kingdom's evolving public spaces. Since its launch in 2018, this prestigious competition has welcomed creative minds from around the world to design sculptures that reflect Saudi Arabia's culture, heritage, and aspirations. These works of art are envisioned as meaningful additions to the urban landscape, enhancing public spaces and celebrating the Kingdom's identity.
This year's theme, "The Inspiration Around You," challenges participants to reflect on their environment and create sculptures that embody Saudi Arabia's unique story. Designers will choose from two distinct sites:
• Abu Hadriyah Road – A major transportation corridor in the Eastern Province, stretching from the UAE border in the south to Kuwait in the north. It plays a crucial role in connecting Saudi Arabia with neighboring Gulf nations and serves as a primary entrance to Dammam, symbolizing movement, connectivity, and regional significance. This highly visible site offers an opportunity to create a landmark sculpture that reflects themes of progress and exchange.
• Tharwa Sea Front – Located in the Tharwa District of Al-Khobar, this vibrant urban waterfront merges modern city planning with the natural beauty of the Arabian Gulf. The Tharwa Corniche is a scenic promenade attracting both residents and visitors, offering a rich setting for public engagement and artistic expression. Sculptures here will interact with the coastal environment, enhancing the district's identity as a destination for leisure, culture, and community gathering.
Both locations offer unique opportunities to create sculptures that will enhance their surroundings while standing as enduring symbols of Saudi Arabia's cultural and artistic evolution. Participants are encouraged to push creative boundaries, designing works that resonate with the people, reflect the identity of the chosen site, and contribute to the Kingdom's growing public art landscape.
PRIZES
Two sites. Two sets of winners. The total prize fund for the Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is 50,000 €, which will be divided equally between the two competition sites. Each site will award a total of 25,000 € to its winning proposals, distributed as follows:
1st Prize - 12,000 €
2nd Prize - 8,000 €
3rd Prize - 5,000 €
COMPETITION SCHEDULE
Early Bird Registration: February 20 – March 20
Advance Registration: March 21 – May 8
Last Minute Registration: May 9 – July 24
Final registration deadline: July 24, 2025
Closing date for submission: August 27, 2025 ( 23:59 London Time)
Announcement of the winners: October 1, 2025
More: https://architecturecompetitions.com/mujassamwatan/
Title
Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture ChallengeType
Competition Announcement (Ideas)Website
Organizers
Registration Deadline
July 24, 2025 10:07 AMSubmission Deadline
August 27, 2025 10:06 AMPrice
90 € - 110 €