Riyadh's Creative District Set to Shine with Italy's Istituto Marangoni
Global fashion institute prepares to launch programs in Saudi capital
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) has secured a strategic partnership with the prestigious Istituto Marangoni, marking the renowned Italian fashion and design institution's expansion into the Saudi Creative District.
This collaborative effort not only positions Riyadh as an emerging epicenter of global creativity and innovation but also highlights the city's evolving role in the fashion industry.
The agreement, supported by the Fashion Commission under the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Investment, sets the stage for Istituto Marangoni's operations to commence in August 2025.Founded in 1935, Istituto Marangoni boasts a rich legacy as one of the world’s leading institutions for fashion, design, and luxury brand management.
Its presence in Riyadh will introduce advanced academic programs specifically tailored to meet the needs of both Saudi and international fashion sectors, effectively blending local cultural influences with global creative standards.The establishment of this institute in Riyadh follows meticulous market research into national and international demands within the fashion education sphere.
The primary objective is to cultivate a new wave of Saudi designers equipped with the technical proficiency and creative acumen necessary for competing on an international platform.
Through an immersive, interactive educational approach that draws upon Riyadh's burgeoning creative landscape, students will have access to comprehensive learning opportunities.Eng.
Mazen Ahmed Tammar, Acting Vice President of City Marketing and Investment Promotion at RCRC, emphasizes Riyadh’s transformation ambitions into a leading hub for culture, creativity, and innovation, with Istituto Marangoni playing a pivotal role in this evolution.
The Italian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Carlo Baldocci, views the agreement as a significant milestone in fostering creative exchanges between Italy and the Kingdom.Stefania Valenti, Group Managing Director of Istituto Marangoni, expresses gratitude towards the support from Saudi partners, reiterating the institute's commitment to nurturing Saudi talent and contributing to a vibrant fashion ecosystem.
As part of its launch, the institute will offer a three-year diploma program for local students, including 50 partial scholarships aimed at high school graduates or equivalent, selected via a competitive selection process initiated earlier in the year.This initiative aligns with the Creative District's broader vision unveiled by RCRC’s Board of Directors in February.
The initial phase, located within the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), focuses on attracting global talent in media, performing and visual arts, and creative technologies, laying down a foundation for future growth and development.