JAX District: An Industrial Heritage Site Transformed into a Cultural Hub in Saudi Arabia
The Saudi Ministry of Culture's Heritage Commission has designated JAX District as an Industrial Heritage Site.
This recognition is part of a program to protect and celebrate historically significant industrial locations in Saudi Arabia.
JAX District, known for its unique industrial architecture, is now among other notable sites in the Kingdom.
The designation honors JAX's historical role as a hub for large-scale industrial projects and its transformation into a cultural landmark.
Originally built in the 1970s and named after the company that constructed it, JAX consists of large warehouses that once formed a bustling industrial hub in Riyadh.
In the mid-2000s, the JAX District in Saudi Arabia underwent a transformation as abandoned warehouses were repurposed by graffiti artists and young creators.
This led to the district becoming a vibrant community known for fostering creative production and displaying it publicly.
Today, JAX District is home to various cultural events such as the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, XP MDLBEAST Music Futures, Hia Hub, and Noor Riyadh.
The Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA) is also located in the district, making it a hub for preserving heritage and nurturing modern creativity.