A true destination for dining, mixing and socialising, Al Mamlaka Social Dining has established a new standard for food hall development in Riyadh and beyond.

After early-stage discussions with stakeholders about the venue’s overarching goals, TGP set out to transform the underutilised top floor of the iconic Kingdom Centre’s mall complex into a premier dining destination.

At its core, the brief was to establish a dynamic social hub that transcended conventional Saudi dining norms, long characterised by exclusive restaurants and fine dining venues. As such, ‘social dining’ emerged as a central pillar during concept development.

Today, Al Mamlaka Social Dining features 21 distinct dining experiences and spans 2,400 square metres, showcasing a blend of open-kitchen layouts, eight new-to-market brands; established and emerging local talents; and, the involvement of five award-winning global chefs.

Curating a unified customer experience while celebrating the unique identity of each F&B concept, Al Mamlaka Social Dining envelops the space with its sophisticated blend of rustic elegance and modern flair, tying everything together with an overarching message of inclusivity, diversity, and community.

A pivotal aspect of the design was the integration of an open kitchen approach, drawing diners’ attention to the culinary excitement and energy. This design strategy aimed to create a theatrical ambiance, enhancing the overall dining experience and showcasing a unique style of entertainment for an audience that increasingly demands social and inclusive dining experiences.

Overlooking the gardens outside, we felt it important to create an indoor-outdoor narrative and usher in natural greenery, which would flow throughout the interior design plan through soothing natural colour pallets, shades of green, curated materials, indoor plants and textures like rattan and wood. When opened, the 8m bi-folding door would give way to an outdoor terrace where a 27m fascia seamlessly integrates the two spaces and establishes an alfresco dining experience and a harmonious blend of authentic nature and interior design.

Meanwhile, a diverse seating experience, including low banquette seats, traditional table set-ups and counter options, creates a playful yet sophisticated atmosphere. This flexibility is complemented by the sheer variety of food offerings, from fine dining style plate options to indulgent deserts and delicatessen offerings, with interior design elements also changing throughout the venue to match the space’s four major zones: Coffee and Breakfast, The International Collection, Deli Dining, and Destination Restaurants.

We envisioned a space that captures the crisp freshness of mornings and the revitalising charm of afternoons, seamlessly transitioning into an atmosphere of refined elegance as evening unfolds. This is enhanced by the warm glow of rustic lighting and the inviting allure of deep, rich tones.