In a landmark move, the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) of Saudi Arabia has inked a partnership with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to initiate the training of 15 Saudi professionals, marking a significant step in bolstering local heritage preservation skills and knowledge within the built environment sector.
This collaboration is encapsulated in a memorandum of understanding that paves the way for DGDA employees to obtain RICS accreditations in areas such as facilities management, real estate advisory, and construction procurement, as disclosed in a recent announcement.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with RICS to bring the immense benefits of their programmes to our employees and projects by adopting global standards in training and development,” expressed DGDA’s Group CEO Jerry Inzerillo. “It is a significant step towards enhancing our professional capabilities and ensuring the preservation of Diriyah’s rich heritage.”
The memorandum aligns with the kingdom’s ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, which is geared towards economic diversification and emphasizes consolidating efforts, simplifying processes, empowering entities, and promoting local talent and job creation.
“Our collaboration with the Diriyah Company underscores our commitment to promoting cultural, economic, and professional growth within Saudi Arabia,” noted Justin Young, Global CEO of RICS. “By supporting Diriyah Company, we aim to highlight the roots of this ancient city and its history across various fields, including culture, arts, and knowledge.”
Depending on demand from the region, which is leading initiatives to develop the nation’s historical capital and the cradle of the first Saudi state, the program is poised for potential expansion.