Downe House Riyadh has opened Diwan Al-Ḍād, a new Arabic Centre of Excellence designed to help students deepen their understanding of the Arabic language, Saudi culture and national heritage. The centre will also create opportunities for educators and schools in Riyadh to share ideas and strengthen Arabic education.
Diwan Al-Ḍād Brings Arabic Language and Culture to Life
Opened on 15 October 2026, Diwan Al-Ḍād gives students a dedicated space to explore Arabic beyond the classroom. The initiative reflects Downe House Riyadh’s approach to combining British education with a strong connection to Saudi identity and heritage.
Through the centre, students can explore the relationship between language, literature, the arts and contemporary society. This broader approach can help young people understand Arabic not only as a subject, but also as an important part of their cultural identity.
The centre will host exhibitions celebrating Arabic literature and heritage, alongside poetry, storytelling and performing arts. In addition, speakers, workshops and discussions will explore Arabic’s role in fields such as diplomacy, media, business and innovation.
These activities aim to make Arabic learning more engaging and relevant to students’ lives and future aspirations.
Supporting Saudi Identity Through Education
H.E. Faisal bin Abdulrahman bin Muaammar, Chairman of the Board of Downe House Riyadh said,
“Arabic is central to our identity and carries a rich intellectual and cultural legacy. Through Diwan Al-Ḍād, we are creating a space that celebrates this heritage and supports a generation of young women who are proud of their roots and confident in the contribution they can make to the future of the Kingdom. It is also a space where British and Saudi educational traditions meet with confidence and mutual respect, with language and culture acting as bridges between our communities.”
For students and families, the initiative highlights how an international education can support academic ambitions while maintaining a strong connection to local culture.
Furthermore, the centre aims to give young women opportunities to develop confidence in their language, identity and place in Saudi society. This approach reflects the importance of helping students engage with the wider world without losing sight of their cultural roots.
Arabic Education Opportunities for Riyadh Schools
Diwan Al-Ḍād will also extend its activities beyond the school community. Downe House Riyadh plans to bring together students, teachers and other schools for professional learning, collaborative events and knowledge exchange.
As a result, the centre could provide opportunities for educators to discuss teaching practices and share ideas about Arabic language education. These connections may also help schools explore new ways to make language learning more engaging for students.
Ms Deborah Sharifi, Principal of Downe House Riyadh said,
“Diwan Al-Ḍād is more than a new space within our school; it is a statement of intent. At Downe House Riyadh, we believe our girls should never have to choose between international ambition and pride in their Saudi language, culture and identity. Through Diwan Al-Ḍād, we want them to embrace the strength of both and grow into confident young women ready to help shape the future of the Kingdom.”
The initiative also highlights the role schools can play in building connections between different educational traditions.
Dr Alice Burt, Deputy Ambassador at the British Embassy Riyadh said,
“Diwan Al-Ḍād is a wonderful example of how education can build meaningful connections between cultures while strengthening young people’s sense of identity. It is encouraging to see Downe House Riyadh, a British school in Riyadh placing Arabic language and Saudi heritage so prominently within its educational community.”
Connecting Arabic Learning With Saudi Vision 2030
The opening of Diwan Al-Ḍād aligns with the wider ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, which include strengthening national identity and preserving the Kingdom’s cultural heritage.
For parents considering international education, the initiative offers an example of how a school can combine an international curriculum with opportunities to engage with Saudi language and traditions.
Meanwhile, its planned activities for educators and schools could help extend the benefits beyond the classroom. By connecting language learning with literature, the arts and contemporary life, Diwan Al-Ḍād aims to give students a deeper appreciation of Arabic and its continuing relevance.
As part of the Cognita global schools group, Downe House Riyadh combines its British educational heritage with access to a wider international school community. Through Diwan Al-Ḍād, the school aims to place Arabic language and Saudi culture at the heart of that experience, supporting young women as they prepare for their future in the Kingdom and beyond.
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Further Reading
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