NEWS AND EVENTS

RUA News

03 Aug 2026

Minister of Culture Appoints Dr. Mohammed Alwan as Acting President of Riyadh University of Arts

Dr. Alwan was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Theater and Performing Arts Commission in November 2024, having previously served as Chief Executive Officer of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission from 2020 to 2024. He holds a PhD in International Business from Carleton University in Canada, an MBA from the University of Portland in the United States, and a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems from King Saud University.

14 May 2026

Riyadh University of Arts Opens Admissions for Four Colleges and Eight Academic Programs

Riyadh University of Arts (RUA) has announced the opening of admissions for its first cohort of students, with applications beginning today, May 14, 2026. Prospective students will be able to apply to eight academic programs across four colleges, with studies commencing in September this year.<br /> This step reflects the university’s commitment to developing national capabilities and talent across the cultural sectors, and to providing specialized academic pathways in artistic and cultural disciplines. The programs aim to prepare a new generation of creatives and practitioners, supporting the continued growth of the Kingdom’s cultural landscape.

03 Apr 2026

Riyadh University of Arts Opens Applications in May, Begins Classes in September

Minister of Culture and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Riyadh University of Arts (RUA) Prince Bader bin Abdullah bin Farhan announced that applications and registration for RUA will open in May, with classes set to begin in September.

30 Jan 2026

Culture Ministry Signs Partnership with the Royal College of Art for the Riyadh University of Arts

The Ministry of Culture has signed today a partnership with the Royal College of Art (RCA) for Riyadh University of Arts (RUA) 's College of Architecture and Design and College of Visual Arts and Photography. The partnership aims to further develop cultural and artistic talent and to drive cultural exchange.

26 Mar 2026

Culture Ministry Signs Partnership with Guildhall School of Music & Drama for Riyadh University of Arts

The Ministry of Culture today signed a partnership with Guildhall School of Music & Drama for Riyadh University of Arts (RUA)’s College of Music. The partnership aims to further develop cultural and artistic talent and drive cultural exchange.

06 Dec 2025

Riyadh University of Arts Signs Agreement with the University of Southern California's School of Cinematic Arts

The Riyadh University of Arts (RUA) affiliated with the Ministry of Culture signed today an agreement with the University of Southern California's (USC) School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) to develop cultural and artistic talent and drive cultural exchange.