Riyadh is home to an impressive collection of academies and creative spaces where curiosity takes center stage. These unique learning experiences invite residents of all ages to discover new passions, develop practical skills, and connect with like-minded communities.
GORDON RAMSEY ACADEMY
Riyadh’s culinary landscape reached a new milestone in 2026 with the opening of the Gordon Ramsay Academy, the renowned chef’s first training academy outside the United Kingdom. Established through a collaboration between Gordon Ramsay Restaurants Global and Al Khaleej Training & Education, the academy reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing focus on developing world-class hospitality and culinary talent in line with its expanding food and tourism sectors.
Located in Narjis View Mall in northern Riyadh, the academy is designed for cooks of all levels. Whether you’re a home cook looking to sharpen your skills or an aspiring chef pursuing a culinary career, its hands-on courses provide an opportunity to learn professional techniques in a welcoming, state-of-the-art environment.
The Academy offers qualification classes, cooking classes, and online courses. Learn key kitchen skills in their 6-week Essential Cookery Skill course with hands-on training perfect for aspiring junior chefs, future private chefs, culinary content creators and food entrepreneurs in the early stages.
Full-day courses include Taste of Southeast Asia, Ultimate Pasta, Ultimate Curries and more for SAR 1000 per session per person.
Half-day courses include Let’s Bake: Gluten-Free, Taste of Spain, Afternoon Tea, Beef Wellington Masterclass, and more for SAR 600 to SAR 700. Families can also enjoy 2-hour cooking classes for SAR 390.
BREAD AHEAD BAKERY AND SCHOOL
Bread Ahead School brings one of London’s most celebrated baking institutions to Riyadh, offering aspiring bakers and food enthusiasts the chance to learn from a globally recognized brand without leaving the Kingdom. Known for its artisan breads, doughnuts, pastries, and hands-on teaching approach, the school has earned an international reputation for making professional baking techniques accessible to everyone.
Located in north Riyadh, the school offers a variety of workshops suitable for all skill levels. Participants can choose from classes in sourdough bread, croissants, doughnuts, pizza, artisan baking, and classic pastries, with each session emphasizing practical, hands-on learning in a professional kitchen environment.
More than just a place to learn recipes, Bread Ahead School encourages students to understand the fundamentals of baking, helping them build confidence and master techniques they can recreate at home. Whether you’re looking to develop a new hobby, improve your baking skills, or simply enjoy a unique culinary experience, it’s an inspiring destination for anyone with a passion for good bread and pastries.
Full Day Workshops include Patisserie, English Baking, Complete Sourdough, Frech Pastry and Cakes, Italian Baking and more. Half day Workshops (4 hours) include Introduction to Baking, Afternoon Tea, Asian Breads, Cheesecakes, Donuts, and more. Starts from SAR 600 per session.
https://www.breadahead.com/sa/en/
https://maps.app.goo.gl/3cpPd427XL4TPrcP6 (Tahlia)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/yZ8u3rJLcZdj83KK8 (Granada Center)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/yZ8u3rJLcZdj83KK8 (Riyadh Gallery)
THE ROYAL INSTITUE FOR TRADITIONAL ARTS (WRTH)
The Royal Institute of Traditional Arts (Wrth) is Saudi Arabia’s premier institution for preserving and promoting the Kingdom’s rich artistic heritage. Established in 2021 under the Ministry of Culture as part of Vision 2030, the Riyadh-based institute blends traditional craftsmanship with modern education to ensure centuries-old arts continue to flourish.
Wrth offers a range of learning opportunities, from short courses and apprenticeships to diploma and degree programs, for hobbyists and aspiring professionals alike. Students can explore disciplines including Arabic calligraphy, Al Sadu weaving, pottery, woodwork, jewelry making, traditional architecture, and heritage conservation, all guided by skilled artisans.
With its hands-on approach, participants learn by creating, gaining a deeper appreciation for the history and cultural significance behind each craft. Whether you’re looking to develop a new skill or immerse yourself in Saudi culture, Wrth offers a meaningful and inspiring introduction to the Kingdom’s living artistic traditions.
Higher education programs are divided into colleges: Visual Arts, Cultural Heritage and Museology, and Performing Arts. They also offer short courses and training programs such as Leather Crafts, Plaster Carving, Embroidery, Heritage Site Management, Craft Entrepreseurship and more. Apprenticeships to various programs are also offered to equip participants with the knowledge, skills, and artistry require to practice traditional arts and crafts today. Most of the programs are in Arabic and open to Saudi nationals free of charge.
RIYADH UNIVERSITY OF ARTS (RUA)
Opened in 2026, the Riyadh University of Arts (RUA) is Saudi Arabia’s first university dedicated exclusively to the arts and creative industries, and the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa. Established by the Ministry of Culture under Vision 2030, it reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to developing creative talent and advancing its cultural sector.
The university offers a wide range of educational pathways, including short courses, diploma programs, and undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. Its first four colleges focus on Film, Music, Theatre and Performing Arts, and Cultural Management, with plans to expand into 13 specialized colleges by 2030, creating one of the region’s most comprehensive arts education institutions.
Courses include BA in Acting for Theater and Film, BA in Music Education, BA in Music, MFA in Arts Management, MFA in Screenwriting, and more. Other colleges and courses are being launched in phases.
Combining academic learning with hands-on, industry-focused training and international partnerships, RUA prepares students for careers in the creative industries. Tuition fees vary by program, with diploma and bachelor’s degrees starting from SAR 90,000 and master’s programs from SAR 198,000. The school is open to international students. Classes will begin in September.
