Transform Spaces. Inspire Minds.

Total prize

50,000 € €

+ realisation

Sculpt the Story.

Sculpt the Nation.

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a profound national transformation—one that is redefining its cities, landscapes, and cultural identity. Guided by Vision 2030, the Kingdom is advancing toward a diversified future shaped by creativity, innovation, and sustainable development. Through strategic investments in culture, tourism, infrastructure, and public space, Saudi Arabia is strengthening its position as a global platform for artistic and architectural expression while remaining deeply rooted in its heritage.

Across the Eastern Province, this transformation is particularly evident. Strategic transportation corridors, evolving urban districts, and revitalized waterfronts are reshaping how people move, gather, and experience the built environment. These spaces are increasingly seen not only as functional infrastructure, but as cultural environments—places where architecture, art, and identity intersect.
Learn more about Saudi culture and heritage through these resources
www.moc.gov.sa www.visitsaudi.com/en heritage.moc.gov.sa darah.gov.sa sgs.gov.sa www.vision2030.gov.sa ncw.gov.sa/magazine/en foundingday.sa
The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge returns this year for its eighth edition, organized by the Mujassam Watan Initiative (an initiative by Al Fozan Social Foundation) in partnership with Buildner, continuing its mission of enriching Saudi Arabia’s public realm through architectural sculpture.

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.

The 8th Competition Edition.

Two Sites.

Two Paths to Inspire.

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.

Site 1

Salwa Road

A major strategic highway connecting Saudi Arabia with the State of Qatar and serving as a key southern gateway to the Dammam Metropolitan Area. Extending from Khobar and Dhahran toward the Salwa Border Crossing, the road plays a vital role in regional connectivity, trade, and logistics. This highly visible setting calls for a bold architectural sculpture that can be perceived at speed—an iconic landmark expressing movement, exchange, progress, and cross-border connection.

Site 2

Tharwa Sea Front

Located in the Tharwa District of Al-Khobar, presents a contrasting urban condition. Positioned between Dammam and Al-Khobar and overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the site forms part of a contemporary waterfront defined by walkability, public life, and visual openness. Architectural sculptures here are expected to engage closely with people and place—enhancing the Corniche experience through interaction, spatial sensitivity, and integration with the coastal environment.

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and artists to shape Saudi Arabia’s evolving public spaces through designs that reflect both its rich heritage and dynamic future. Whether responding to the strategic Salwa Road, a key regional gateway, or the vibrant Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, participants have the opportunity to create architectural sculptures that inspire, connect, and leave a lasting impact. Join the 8th edition of the competition and contribute to the Kingdom’s cultural landscape through creativity and innovation.

Join. Create. Inspire.

Two Sites.

Two Paths to Inspire.

For the Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge, participants were asked to select one of the two sites. Each site had its own set of winners. The jury has decided to award 1st and 2nd Prizes for the Abu Hadriyah Road site, and 1st, 2nd, and two 3rd Prizes for the Tharwa Sea Front site. Below you will find a brief description of the sites.

Site 1

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.

Site 2

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.