KAPSARC Introduction - FTR International

The King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and
Research Center (KAPSARC) is an iconic symbol of Saudi Arabia’s insight into future world energy needs and will foster an in depth and forward thinking attitude towards global environmental energy management.  The research center will focus on four primary concerns: (1) Oil price drivers and movements. (2) Solar energy market incentives for Kingdom wide adoption with policy perspectives. (3) Review of national energy efficiency initiatives. (4) The framework for carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) program in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  The project is designed by world renowned architect Zaha Hadid who brings a new and fresh design approach using a cellular structure of crystalline forms.  A network of three dimensional, six sided cells with many junctions and bonds, its design is based on the concept of connection.  The modular, adaptive building will be made up of a series of shaded outdoor spaces, courtyards, entrances, meeting areas, indoor gardens, corridors, underground tunnels and roof terraces.

Drake and Scull is received a Notice to Proceed from Saudi Aramco in the beginning of December, 2010 with a scheduled completion on August 31, 2012.  KAPSARC will be the largest LEED Platinum project built in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.  The site is located in the northwest section of Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and it covers a land area of approximately 139 acres or 56.3 hectares.  The project has an area of 473,537 gross square feet or 43,992 gross square meters and includes a unique canopy and tunnel system that connects the five (5) major buildings together. The canopy unifies the major building sand develops an outdoor environment with water features and filtered light that is spectacular at night.  The development will also include a complete infrastructure system with ten (10) ancillary/accessory structures, access roads, parking, landscape and hardscape.

We all had the opportunity to work on this project with FTR International who is working closely with Drake and Scull on this project.


We do not have any personal pictures from this site due to its policy of no photography.

If you have not already, please check out this video of the project and some of its details.