RIYADH: Officials behind a major Saudi urban development have been holding progress meetings with members of the local community. The Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) staged the information briefings over two days in an effort to bring local people up to date with the latest projects and activities. A range of economic, heritage, and cultural schemes aim to transform the “Kingdom’s Jewel” into a global tourist destination and regional gathering place. The meetings, which concluded on Thursday, highlighted development, infrastructure, and design projects that respect original Najdi architectural standards, as well as heritage and environmental sites in historic Diriyah.HIGHLIGHT The Diriyah Gate Development Authority staged the information briefings over two days in an effort to bring local people up to date with the latest projects. Specialists pointed out the development’s objectives designed to raise quality of living standards for residents of the region while preserving its historical identity and they also hailed the authority’s efforts to preserve the natural environmental features of the city. An introductory tour of the DGDA’s headquarters was organized for attendees following each meeting during which a full explanation was given on the various projects by reviewing the master plan for development activities and officials also fielded questions from residents about the development. The DGDA launched the urban code more than two months ago to raise the quality of architectural designs, urban planning regulations, building organization, and land use. The authority also aims to create a distinctive and sustainable environment to serve Diriyah’s community, meet local aspirations, and enhance its historical importance.