Riyadh Creative District Now Offers Five Bachelor’s and Master’s Programs to Build Skills for the Creative Economy

Five bachelor’s and master’s degree programs are launching at Riyadh Creative District (RCD), an initiative of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), to develop Saudi talent and meet demand for specialist skills across the Kingdom’s creative industries. Offered by Istituto Marangoni at its campus at King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the programs are accepting applications until November 4, 2026. The first cohort will begin classes in January 2027.

The new offering comprises four bachelor’s degrees—Interior Design; Fashion Design & Accessories; Fashion Communication & Image; and Fashion Management, Digital Communication and Media—and a master’s degree in Fashion & Luxury Brand Management. The launch follows approval from the Ministry of Education and the Council of Universities’ Affairs for Istituto Marangoni Riyadh to operate as a branch university offering undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

The institute also hosted a virtual open day, giving prospective students an opportunity to explore its facilities and learn more about the new degree programs.

The expansion builds on RCRC’s strategic partnership with Istituto Marangoni and collaboration with the Ministry of Culture’s Fashion Commission. Since joining the district in 2025, the institution has offered specialized diplomas and professional training. The addition of degree programs strengthens the district’s educational offering and its capacity to prepare talent for careers in the creative industries.

Eng. Khalid AlSultan, Assistant to the CEO of RCRC for Strategic Affairs and Initiatives, said the expansion demonstrates RCRC’s approach to economic and cultural development: attracting leading international institutions and creating the conditions for them to grow. He noted that the district brings education and talent development closer to business and innovation, supporting the creative economy and opening up lasting opportunities for the next generation of creative professionals.

Launched by RCRC’s Board of Directors in February 2025, Riyadh Creative District brings together talent and local and international organizations across media, culture and media technology. Its first phase is based at KAFD. Through collaboration, support for innovation and opportunities for entrepreneurs, the district aims to grow Saudi Arabia’s content production capabilities and increase the creative industries’ contribution to the economy.

Jorge Urteaga, Executive Director of Riyadh Creative District, said education and talent development are central to the district’s vision. He explained that the new programs will strengthen ties between academic institutions, creative businesses and industry professionals, helping students develop the skills employers need and contributing to the long-term growth of Riyadh’s creative industries.

Founded in Milan in 1935, Istituto Marangoni has more than 90 years of experience in fashion, design and luxury management education, with campuses in cities including Paris and London. The institution ranked 45th worldwide for Art & Design in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject. Its Riyadh campus gives Saudi students access to this academic expertise and international industry network within the district’s growing creative community.

Stefania Valenti, Managing Director of Istituto Marangoni, welcomed the milestone and credited RCRC’s support and the district’s creative environment with helping the institution establish and expand its presence in Saudi Arabia. She said the district’s emphasis on connecting education, businesses and talent aligns with Istituto Marangoni’s commitment to preparing the next generation of industry professionals and contributing to Riyadh’s creative landscape.