Aramco Expats reported that the development of an iconic cultural landmark passed a major milestone earlier this month as the first concrete foundations were poured for the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture.

Saudi Oger the main construction contractor for the unique project began the foundations after several months of site excavation and preparation work. Also this month an advanced technology contract was awarded on August 23 to Korea based global technology leader Samsung with a scope covering design of integrated applications, a data center, intelligent building management system and technology intensive exhibits to be designed with Atelier Bruckner of Germany.

The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture generally referred to as the Center is a forward looking Saudi Aramco initiative scheduled to be completed by year end 2012. The Center will consist of several institutions under one roof including a 21st Century library, museum, children’s museum, archive, theater, multimedia theater, youth creativity center, a great hall for international traveling exhibits, a lifelong learning facility and an environmental garden.

The Center was designed by Snohetta, the world renowned Norwegian architectural firm which was awarded the design work after winning an international competition that included top tier Saudi and international design firms.

(Sourced from Aramco Expats)