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KAPSARC

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) in Riyadh is a world-leading research institution focused on energy economics and sustainability. The award-winning campus was designed by the visionary architect Zaha Hadid and officially opened in 2017. Its design is based on a cellular, hexagonal structure that resembles organic forms and allows for modular expansion. This crystalline arrangement is strategically engineered to protect the buildings from the intense desert heat by creating natural shaded courtyards and optimizing air circulation. The complex comprises five main buildings, including an energy research center, a conference venue, and a specialized library. KAPSARC is the first project in Saudi Arabia to achieve LEED Platinum certification, reflecting its commitment to environmental performance. The architecture symbolizes the nation's shift toward a knowledge-based economy and technological innovation. Beyond its research function, the campus serves as a global model for energy-efficient construction in arid climates.

Location: Saudi Arabia
Top sights: Chill place · Nasser bin Muhana Al-Subaie · Grand Mosque
Nearby: Riyadh (16 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	13	16	20	26	31	34	35	35	32	26	20	14
Rain mm	6	3	3	6	1	0	0	0	0	0	7	5

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The KAPSARC building is primarily a research facility, so interior access is usually limited to staff and invited guests. However, the exterior's striking Zaha Hadid architecture can be admired from the public roads and landscaped grounds.

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Typical hours

KAPSARC does not have standard visitor hours because it functions as an active research center. Occasionally, guided tours or open days are offered; check the official website for announcements in advance.

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Photography

Photography of the futuristic exterior is generally allowed and encouraged. Inside the research center, photography is typically prohibited due to security and confidentiality reasons.

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Time needed

A brief visit to admire the architecture from outside takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If you secure a rare interior tour, expect an additional hour.

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Combine with

Combine a visit with the nearby King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center or the diplomatic quarter's modern architecture. The area also features several luxury hotels and shopping malls.

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Getting there

The easiest way to reach KAPSARC is by taxi or ride-sharing service from central Riyadh. The site is located in the Diplomatic Quarter, and parking is available for private vehicles.

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Insider tip

Visit during the golden hour just before sunset for dramatic lighting on the curved white facades. Check the KAPSARC website in advance for any public events or exhibitions.

Geography

Coordinates

24.84220, 46.74190

Facts

The facility was designed by the Pritzker Prize-winning architect Zaha Hadid.
The entire complex covers a total floor area of approximately 70,000 square meters.
KAPSARC officially opened its doors to researchers in 2017.
It was the first project in Saudi Arabia to be awarded LEED Platinum certification.
The buildings utilize passive cooling strategies through innovative wind catchers.
The campus consists of five distinct but interconnected primary structures.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Water Splash Park5 km · WExplore →

Reghin11 km · WExplore →

Riyadh Zoo13 km · WExplore →

Kingdom Centre13 km · SWExplore →

Al Faisaliyah Centre13 km · SWExplore →

Riyadh Dry Port15 km · WExplore →

National Museum Park15 km · WExplore →

Riyadh16 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town KAPSARC (5)

Chill place🏛 museum

An exhibition space located within the futuristic King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC).

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Nasser bin Muhana Al-Subaie📍 landmark

A modern mosque serving the residents and researchers of the KAPSARC campus.

Grand Mosque 📍 landmark

The central grand mosque of the KAPSARC complex, characterized by modern Islamic architecture.

Jamia Sheikh Sulaiman Bin Hamd Al Wahbi Rahimullah ⛪ religious

A congregational mosque in the KAPSARC district, serving as an important religious hub for the community.

Saud Al Tareeqi Mosque📍 landmark

A contemporary place of worship situated within the innovative architecture of the KAPSARC research center.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is KAPSARC?

It is an independent research center for energy issues.

Is it accessible to the public?

No, it is primarily a scientific research institution.

What is the architecture known for?

For the modular, honeycomb-like design by Zaha Hadid.

Where is the center located?

In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Can you view it from the outside?

Yes, the architecture can be admired from the outside.

KAPSARC: where is it located?

KAPSARC is located in Saudi Arabia.

KAPSARC: what is there to see?

Highlights include Chill place, Nasser bin Muhana Al-Subaie, Grand Mosque.

KAPSARC: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.

KAPSARC: why is it worth visiting?

The King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) in Riyadh is a world-leading research institution focused on energy economics and sustainability.

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