Riyadh: The official signing marking the arrival of the Alliance Fran§aise at Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City (Misk City) took place on March 5, in the presence of Ambassador of France to Saudi Arabia Patrick Maisonnave; CEO of Misk City Eng. Samy Al Jasser; President of the Alliance Fran§aise of Saudi Arabia Zaher Al Munajjed.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Misk City is enriching its cultural and educational ecosystem with the arrival of the Alliance Fran§aise of Saudi Arabia, a language and cultural center dedicated to the French language, which will soon open a new space within the city following the signing of a lease agreement.
Founded in 1884, the Alliance Fran§aise is today an international network of more than 800 centers worldwide. Present in Saudi Arabia for over 25 years, it operates five branches across the Kingdom, including two locations in Riyadh, in addition to Jeddah, Al-Khobar, and AlUla. Each year, it teaches French to more than 2,000 learners and remains the only examination center in the country authorized to issue official French language certificates recognized by the French Ministry of National Education. It also offers a cultural program accessible to all audiences.
This agreement is part of Misk City's broader activation strategy, particularly within the development of Mishraq, the city's central district. Designed as a mixed-use destination, Mishraq brings together Grade A office spaces, a curated retail offering including caf©s and restaurants, as well as residential units, creating a living environment where work, living, and community life intersect throughout the year.
As part of its establishment at Misk City, the Alliance Fran§aise of Saudi Arabia will offer French language courses alongside a cultural program. The new space has been designed as a meeting place, fostering learning, exchange, and community engagement, while bringing internationally recognized educational standards and cultural programming to Misk City.
The arrival of the Alliance Fran§aise reflects Misk City's commitment to welcoming internationally renowned institutions, aligned with its vision of creating an urban environment focused on education, creativity, and cultural dialogue. This partnership strengthens the city's cultural and educational offering while contributing to its activation through experiences and programs.
This new location will provide the public with access to French language learning and certified programs in a central and accessible setting, while also hosting events and activities that promote intercultural dialogue and the strengthening of international cultural exchanges in Riyadh.
This agreement forms part of Misk City's ongoing efforts to activate its ecosystem, reinforcing its role as a platform for learning, cultural exchange, and the development of urban experiences.