Saudi Arabia architecture news 2024, KSA building projects, Red Sea construction design, Giga project property images

Saudi Arabia Architecture News

Architectural Developments in the Middle East – KSA Built Environment Updates

post updated 20 November 2024

Saudi Arabia Architecture Designs – chronological list

20 November 2024
King Salman Stadium Masterplan, Riyadh
Design: Populous

image : Populous
Trojena Ski Village
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City and the Ministry of Sports have unveiled the Populous-designed King Salman Stadium and Masterplan, a groundbreaking project set to transform Saudi Arabia’s sports and cultural landscape. Poised to become the largest-capacity stadium in the Kingdom and one of the world’s premier sports venues, the stadium is slated for completion in late 2029.

Shebara Red Sea luxury hotel brand

Luxury Wellness Resort AMAALA, Red Sea

25 June 2024

Knight Frank: Saudi Arabia’s construction awards hit US$ 142 billion

Riyadh | 24 June 2024: Saudi Arabia is experiencing a significant surge in its construction activities, with the construction output value for the residential, institutional, infrastructure, industrial, energy & utilities and commercial sectors reaching US$ 141.5bn, up by 4.3% compared to last year, according to the latest analysis by global property consultancy Knight Frank’s Construction Landscape Review report for Saudi Arabia.

Mohamed Nabil – Regional Partner, Head of Project & Development Services, MENA, says: “We are currently witnessing a historical transformation unfolding in Saudi Arabia with construction projects standing out in their design scale and value. Given the scale of development pipeline, the government is hoping to attract over US$ 3 trillion in investments by 2030, a figure recently confirmed the Minister of investment during the inaugural Sino-Gulf Cooperation for Industries and Investments Forum in China last month.”

This substantial investment in transforming the Kingdom is at the heart of Vision 2030 and will also strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a global hub for tourism, commerce and trade.

Knight Frank says that since the launch of Saudi Arabia’s National Transformation Plan in 2016, the total budgeted value of real estate and infrastructure projects has surpassed US$ 1.25 trillion. This transformation is evident across the entire urban landscape, driven by Vision 2030, which aims to deliver over 660,000 residential units, more than 320,000 hotel keys, over 5.3 million sqm of retail space, and more than 6.1 million sqm of new office space by the end of the decade.

Nabil continued, “Notably, 38% of the existing contract award value accounts for Riyadh Province, equating to US$ 54bn, followed by Mecca and Tabuk Provinces at US$ 28.7bn and US$ 28.5bn, respectively. While construction sector contract awards account for 61% of the total value, the transportation sector follows in second place at 33%, highlighting the significant investment being made in bolstering the capital’s transportation infrastructure as the population swells to a projected 10 million by 2030.”

The residential sector primarily dominates Saudi Arabia’s construction output value, accounting for 31% (US$ 43.5bn) of the total output value in 2023 and projected to reach US$ 56.9bn by 2028, according to Knight Frank’s analysis. The energy and utilities sector follows closely in second place, with a value of US$ 35.1bn, which is forecast to increase to US$ 46.5bn by 2028.

By the end of 2028, the Kingdom’s construction output value for all sectors is forecast to reach US$ 181.5bn, making Saudi Arabia the largest world’s largest construction market, according to Knight Frank.

Residential construction cost benchmark

Knight Frank has also published an analysis of residential construction costs across Saudi Arabia which outlines the range of building construction and fixed fit-out costs across different residential categories, including different tiers of villas, and the same for apartment buildings.

Having analysed construction rates per square metre for various residential projects in Kingdom, Knight Frank’s data reveals that the variance in construction costs is primarily attributed to the unique differences in the scale, quality and type of construction projects, ranging from SAR 3800-10,000 psm. Using the lower end of this range as well as the data on average dwelling size, Knight Frank’s analysis suggests that the cost to deliver the Kingdom’s planned 660,000 homes by 2030 will cost at least US$ 175bn.

Giga Projects

By far the most visible impact of Vision 2030 has been the emergence of new super-cities, mainly Giga projects around the Kingdom, particularly in the Western part of the country.

Amar Hussain – Associate Partner, Research, ME, added: “With a value of over SAR 1.25 trillion launched but not yet delivered, Giga Projects are undoubtedly transforming the Kingdom’s urban landscape. Arguably one of, if not the most expansive, real estate development programs ever seen in the world is gathering pace in Saudi Arabia as the 2030 deadline nears to realise Vision 2030.

“Nationally, the planned volume of residential units has risen to 660,000 units, an increase of 30% in the last 12 months. Meanwhile, the office pipeline is steady at 6 million square meters. In the commercial market, plans are currently underway for 5.3 million square meters of retail space and an additional 320,000 hotel rooms, which will contribute to Saudi Arabia’s objective of growing the population to 40 million and accommodating 150 million visitors by 2030. This figure has increased from approximately 106 million visitors last year, including 27 million international visitors, a 62% increase from the previous year”.

According to Knight Frank’s analysis, there are currently 25 Giga projects that are at various phases of construction around the Kingdom, with Western Saudi Arabia remain a focus of development with plans valued at US$ 692 billion, accounting for 55% of the total US$ 1.25 trillion development plan. The region is expected to see extensive growth in luxury residential supply and hotel accommodation, as well as retail, and office space.

About Knight Frank

Knight Frank LLP is the leading independent global property consultancy. Headquartered in London, the Knight Frank network has 487 offices across 53 territories and more than 20,000 people The Group advises clients ranging from individual owners and buyers to major developers, investors, and corporate tenants. For further information about the Firm, please visit www.knightfrank.com.

In the MENA region, we have strategically positioned offices in key countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, and Egypt. For the past 13 years, we have been offering integrated residential and commercial real estate services, including transactional support, consultancy, and management.

Understanding the unique intricacies of local markets is at the core of what we do, we blend this understanding with our global resources to provide you with tailored solutions that meet your specific needs. At Knight Frank, excellence, innovation, and a genuine focus on our clients drive everything we do. We are not just consultants; we are trusted partners in property ready to support you on your real estate journey, no matter the scale of your endeavour.

Previously on e-architect:

Saudi Arabia Architecture News 2024

13 March 2024
Trojena Ski Village
Architects: Aedas

image courtesy of architects practice
Trojena Ski Village
Futuristic resort envisioned by Aedas in Saudi will be the world’s first “vertical ski village” and snow destination in the GCC with year-round adventure sports. History is in the making as Saudi Arabia gears up to host the 10th Asian Winter Games in 2029 in Trojena, the Gulf Region’s first ever outdoor ski resort.

26 January 2024
The Garage KAUST Building, main campus of King Abdulaziz University for Sciences and Technology, Riyadh
Design: STUFISH

photo : Tim Franco
The Garage KAUST Building
London-based architecture and design studio STUFISH, have transformed a former multi-storey carpark in the heart of Riyadh into the Middle East’s largest start-up incubator. With an area of 28,000 sqm, The Garage aspires to be the ultimate destination for tech startups that encompasses incubation, acceleration, and a myriad of support services.

22 January 2024
Norlana, Gulf of Aqaba
Architects: 10 Design

image courtesy of NEOM
Norlana Luxury Homes on the Gulf of Aqaba
NEOM has recently announced Norlana, an ultra-modern active lifestyle community, as the latest addition to the evolving regional development in northwest Saudi Arabia, created by 10 Design. Situated on the Gulf of Aqaba’s coastline, Norlana creates a unique environment where an exclusive community of 3,000 residents will enjoy contemporary luxury fused with advanced technology, setting a pioneering standard for sustainable modern living.

15 January 2024
Assila Headquarters, Riyadh
Design: Peter Ruge Architekten

photo : Laurian Ghinitoiue
Assila HQ, Saudi Arabia
Riyadh is Saudi Arabia’s capital and the largest city in the country with a population of 7.7 million. It belongs to the historical region of Najd / Al-Yamama and is in the centre of a large plateau in the Arabian Peninsula.

15 Jan 2024
Design Space AlUla, AlJadidah Arts District, Alula
Design: Giò Forma Studio

photo : RCU / Nicholas Jackson Photography
Design Space AlUla
February 2024 will mark the opening of Design Space AlUla, a focal point for showcasing AlUla’s wide ranging design initiatives contributing to the vision for AlUla. This new Saudi building provides exhibition, workshop and archive space, and is designed to foster collaboration among design professionals, students, and design enthusiasts, whilst strengthening AlUla’s legacy across the cultural sphere as a catalyst for creative inspiration and design.

Saudi Arabia Architecture News 2023

15 December 2023
Epicon, Gulf of Aqaba
Architects: 10 Design

image courtesy of NEOM
Epicon Luxury Resort on the Gulf of Aqaba
The Board of Directors of NEOM, the sustainable regional development taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia, today announced Epicon, its latest luxury coastal tourism destination, including a residential offering.

AlUla Dune Hotel
AlUla Dune Hotel, Saudi Arabia building

6 November 2023
Shebara, Sheybarah Island, Red Sea, western Saudi Arabia
Design: Killa Design architects

image courtesy of architects practice
Shebara Red Sea luxury hotel brand
Red Sea Global (RSG), the multi-project developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations, The Red Sea and Amaala, has announced it will operate its own luxury hotel brand at The Red Sea destination, named Shebara. The resort buildings are designed by Dubai’s Killa Design at this ambitious KSA regenerative tourism destination on Sheybarah Island in the Al Wajh Lagoon.

1 August 2023
Red Sea phase one construction

image courtesy of architects practice
Red Sea phase one construction update
Red Sea Global (RSG), the multi-project developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations, Amaala and The Red Sea, has released a comprehensive update on construction progress across phase one of The Red Sea destination.

14 June 2023
Tabuk Camel Contest Buildings

Designlab Experience Builds Groundbreaking Setting for Tabuk Camel Contest in Saudi Arabia
June 15- June 30, 2023

Beginning tomorrow, June 15, 2023 through June 30, Designlab Experience, a creative studio leader in temporary and immersive architecture, will debut an architectural complex for the Tabuk Camel Contest, a touring festival celebrating the beauty of Saudi Arabia’s beloved cultural icon.

Sponsored by The Camel Club, the 35,000-square-meters arena uses sustainable technologies and recyclable materials that do not disrupt the terrain. After the Tabuk debut, all the minimalist structures will be carefully dismantled and reconstructed at the next location using the original materials and setup.

The site will include a Royal Area created exclusively for VIP guests, a Heritage Village erected for the thousands of fans attending, a media center, judges’ quarters, stables, and a Kids Village featuring a stage, a playground, and several interactive stations. The camel parade route will stretch between the Royal Area and the Heritage Village.

During the two-week festival, camels, wearing makeup and elaborate costumes, will be judged in multiple categories, including Best in Show.

Renderings and Masterplans: Courtesy of Designlab Experience

14 April 2023
Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City, Misk City, Riyadh
Design: RMJM Architects

image courtesy of architects practice
Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City offices
Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City announces the launch of the first group of office buildings next to Al Mishraq Zone. The cluster of 3 four-story buildings are designed to provide a readily adaptive workplace offering a collaborative environment.

17 Apr 2023
Konoz Box of Jewels, Riyadh
Design: Benoy

images courtesy of architects practice
Konoz Box of Jewels, Riyadh
The global architecture firm Benoy has unveiled its design plans for ‘Konoz’, a cutting-edge entertainment city in the heart of Riyadh. This new KSA property development will include an entertainment city, a luxury hotel and residential offerings, in addition to commercial, F&B and retail outlets.

11 March 2023
Jayasom health resort, Amaala, Triple Bay, Red Sea, western Saudi Arabia

images courtesy of architects practice
Jayasom Wellness Resort, Amaala
Destination wellness resort operator Jayasom has revealed plans to deliver an integrative multigenerational health offering for Amaala, one of the world’s most ambitious tourism destinations developed by Red Sea Global (RSG). With a planned total of 153 keys and 24 branded residences it will comprise of a family wellness product alongside an adults-only zone, as well as residences for sale to private owners.

26 January 2023
Islamic Biennale, Jeddah, western Saudi Arabia
Design: OMA

photograph by Marco Cappelletti, Courtesy of OMA
Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah
With a scenography designed by OMA / Iyad Alsaka and Kaveh Dabiri, the first edition of the Islamic Biennale has opened in Jeddah, hosted by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation. Artworks are displayed over 120,000 square meters of exhibition spaces, taking over the Western Hajj Terminal, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) and winner of the Aga Khan Award in 1983.

24 Jan 2023
Layali Diriyah, Riyadh
Design: Designlab Experience

photo : Roberto Conte
Layali Diriyah, Riyadh
Designlab Experience’s latest architecture project Layali Diriyah, lights up the Saudi Nights with an eclectic fusion of design, contemporary art and cuisine nestled in a palm grove on the outskirts of Riyadh, a multisensory world of wonder celebrates the Diriyah Season January 1st- February 22nd.

Saudi Arabia Building News

KSA Architectural News + Key New Middle East Property Designs, chronological:

4 Dec 2022
Jeddah Rose, Jeddah
Design: PARALX, Los Angeles / Beirut

image courtesy of PARALX
Jeddah Rose Building
The Los Angeles and Beirut-based architecture firm PARALX announced that Jeddah Rose, a ten-story mixed-use commercial and hospitality building, has topped out. Located along the edge of the future New Jeddah Downtown, the building plays a critical role in connecting the historic city with the 570 ha (1,409 ac) urban growth plan overlooking the Red Sea in a strategic area near Al Salam Palace.

30 Nov 2022
King Salman International Airport, Riyadh
Design: Foster + Partners, architects

images courtesy of architects practice
King Salman International Airport, Riyadh
Foster + Partners has won a competition to design the masterplan for King Salman International Airport which will boost Riyadh’s position as a global logistics hub, stimulate transport, trade and tourism, and act as a bridge linking the East with the West.

25 Oct 2022

Red Sea Global sets sights on becoming world’s most responsible developer

• Saudi developer behind some of the world’s most ambitious projects evolves into Red Sea Global, with ambition to set new global standards in responsible development and lead the category globally

• Group reveals multiple new projects underway in the Kingdom and subsidiary brands set to be launched.

(Riyadh, 25 October 2022): The developer behind two of the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects has confirmed its transformation into Red Sea Global (RSG) on the sidelines of the sixth Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh.

The responsible developer, formerly known as The Red Sea Development Company, is currently overseeing the creation of two luxury tourism destinations in the Kingdom. THE RED SEA and AMAALA prioritize delivering a positive impact for people and planet and are on track to place Saudi Arabia firmly on the global tourism map.

Following the successful delivery of critical milestones, and with THE RED SEA destination on track to welcome first visitors in 2023, RSG’s mandate has expanded to oversee upwards of a dozen projects stretching the length of the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, with the potential to expand beyond the Kingdom in the future.

“With THE RED SEA and AMAALA we’ve proven our ability to realize mega-scale responsible developments that positively shape the futures of both the people who we welcome and employ, and the places in which we operate,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global.

“The announcement today marks the start of our evolution into a truly global developer that can lead the category towards a new archetype for development. We are powered by extraordinary people from the Kingdom and beyond, and have the skills, knowledge, and experience required to succeed on the world stage.

“We are not only expanding our footprint to help create massive economic opportunities – valued at hundreds of billions worth of riyals – for the people of Saudi Arabia. We also want to set new global standards in development and inspire the industry to do better.”

RSG has a growing portfolio of projects stretching along the Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia, with more than five additional projects already under feasibility study, entering masterplan competition phase, or at which construction has already started.

The expanded mandate also includes the establishment of a series of subsidiary businesses to drive an uplift in the Saudi tourism sector and associated industries. Such RSG-owned businesses allow the organization to maintain its stringent sustainability standards in development and operational phases, and span the creation of a seaplane company, through to hospitality and guest experience brands.

The global multi-project developer’s existing two giga projects under delivery are projected to contribute some 33 billion riyals annually to the Kingdom’s economy on completion, evidencing the economic boon that RSG can deliver as it expands. RSG’s projects also focus on enhancing the wellbeing of communities, including comprehensive training programs for the next generation of Saudi talent.

To date, across the two live projects, the company has awarded more than 1300 contracts worth nearly 32 billion riyals ($8.5 bn), with some 70 percent of the total value awarded to Saudi companies reflective of the organization’s ambition to positively impact the local economy.

Over the last five years, the company has successfully launched programs geared towards the upskilling and training of young Saudis. Such efforts support the creation of a pool of talent, which will power the delivery of the Group’s portfolio of projects and the wider growth of the tourism sector in the Kingdom.

Initiatives include the Elite Graduate Program, which has brought in more than 120 fresh graduates to the organization for on-the-job training over the last four years, with the next batch of graduates set to join in early 2023. An additional 1,500 vocational training places have also been provided and students who successfully complete the program will be employed by RSG or one of its partners.

A partnership with the University of Prince Mugrin provided 220 scholarships so far with 50 more set to be provided in 2023. The undergraduate studies, leading to a Bachelor of Science Degree in International Hospitality Management, is accredited by the prestigious Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne (EHL).

RSG’s groundbreaking approach toward responsible development has seen the company explore and, in some cases, implement experimental technologies and pilot programs to help solve some of the world’s most complex and pressing challenges, such as off-site manufacturing and modular construction methods at scale, green concrete to limit emissions, destination-wide clean mobility strategies, and even sustainable food production through new farming approaches.

The announcement today also revealed a stunning new logo concept and brand, inspired by the Red Sea, home of the organization’s flagship projects, and the global aspirations of the company to have a positive impact on development worldwide.

About Red Sea Global

Red Sea Global (RSG – www.redseaglobal.com) is a closed joint-stock company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia.

RSG is a global multi-project developer, seeking to lead the world towards a more sustainable future, showing how responsible and regenerative development can uplift communities, drive economies, and enhance the environment. The protection of natural capital is central to all development decisions, as the organization seeks to create a better future for all.

A cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambition to diversify its economy, RSG is playing a key role in transforming the nation, by creating exciting opportunities for young Saudi talent and the private sector, as it develops built assets and destinations across multiple sectors that make a positive impact for people and planet.

RSG is the visionary company behind some of the world’s most ambitious development ventures, including luxury regenerative tourism destinations such as The Red Sea and AMAALA.

Across its portfolio, RSG leverages the most innovative concepts, strategies, and technologies to deliver projects that actively enhance the wellbeing of customers, communities, and environments.

6 Oct 2022
Safar art collection at AlUla’s International Airport

image courtesy of Arts AlUla
Safar art collection at AlUla International Airport
Safar is a major new collection of over 64 artworks by 24 Saudi and international artists at AlUla’s International Airport. Spanning both the Executive Terminal and the Commercial Terminal, Safar highlights and celebrates AlUla’s cultural legacy, natural wonders and community and includes works by artisans of AlUla’s Madrasat Addeera Art and Design Centre, opened by Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) to train and upskill the next generation of creatives.

26 Sep 2022
Marine Life Institute, AMAALA Triple Bay, western Saudi Arabia
Design: Foster + Partners

image courtesy of architects practice
Marine Life Institute AMAALA Triple Bay
Designed by leading architect Foster + Partners, the marine life institute on the Red Sea coast combines futuristic lab spaces with unmatched underwater expeditions. The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC), the developer behind the world’s most ambitious regenerative tourism projects, The Red Sea and AMAALA, has revealed design plans for its state-of-the-art marine life institute.

6 Sep 2022
MO, a bakehouse / espresso bar, Khobar, Eastern Province
Design Architects: Masquespacio

image Courtesy architecture office
Bakehouse Espresso Bar MO, Khobar
When RightGrain, an experience-based company, contacted this architects office it was immediately clear that they were looking to get away from the traditional and create a project that would stand-out from the product and the communication, till the interior design representing the concept of the project, a community driven, highly engaging brand and elevating the overall experience.

23 Aug 2022
KAPSARC Sets New Record in Saudi Arabia With Five LEED EBOM Platinum Certifications
Design: Zaha Hadid Architects – ZHA

photo : Hufton+Crow
KAPSARC King Abdullah Petroleum Studies & Research Centre
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) awarded King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC) in Saudi Arabia five Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certificates under the Existing Building: Operation and Maintenance (EBOM) rating system with a rating of over 80 points. KAPSARC’s facilities are the only buildings in the Kingdom to have achieved LEED-EBOM Platinum certification.

10 Aug 2022
B_FIT, Jeddah
Design: SHED

Photos: SHED
B FIT smart gym, Jeddah
B_FIT is a new standard of smart gym in Saudi Arabia, designed by London-based Shed. Opening its first site in Jeddah, this is the first of many B_FIT gyms planned in KSA and nearby GCC territories bringing a premium yet accessible smart gym experience to the masses using artificial intelligence, virtual reality, Amazon Alexa and IoT innovations.

21 Jun 2022
Misk Foundation Headquarters
Architects: Conrad Gargett

render : Doug & Wolf
Misk Foundation Headquarters
Conrad Gargett wins international competition to design Misk Foundation Headquarters for the world’s first non-profit city. The Australian architecture firm, has won an international competition to design the Misk Foundation Headquarters in Saudi Arabia, which is set to become an iconic centrepiece for the world’s first non-profit city.

20 Apr 2022
Meydan office park, Riyadh
Design: RMJM architects

image courtesy of architects practice
Meydan office park Riyadh
RMJM Dubai was appointed as a lead architect for the Meydan project – an interconnected office park located in an upcoming area of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Following the client’s directions and ambitious vision, RMJM focused on creating a venue to attract top talent and become a popular entrepreneurial hub.

7 Apr 2022
Kingdom Centre – new photos

photo © Alex Balasa

Kingdom Centre s a 41-story, 302.3 m (992 ft) skyscraper in Riyadh. When completed in 2002, it overtook the 267-meter (876 ft) Faisaliyah Tower as the tallest tower in Saudi Arabia.

photos © Alex Balasa

It has since been surpassed and, as of 2021, is the fifth-tallest skyscraper in the country, whose tallest two buildings are the Abraj Al Bait Towers and the Capital Market Authority Tower. It is the world’s third-tallest building with a hole after the Shanghai World Financial Center and the 85 Sky Tower in Taiwan.

The tower was developed by Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal. The iconic building is designed by the team of Ellerbe Becket and Omrania, who were selected through an international design competition.

13 January 2022
Life Lines, Khobar, Eastern Province of KSA
Design Architects: Veronika Supruniuk, Denis Shulginov

image courtesy of architects practice
Alsahil Buildings in Khobar, KSA
Alsahil Buildings in Khobar, Saudi Arabia: old buildings are located at an angle of 45, so the architects preserve this feature by placing an angled grid of columns, thereby linking history and the future through lines.

More contemporary Saudi Arabia Architecture News on e-architect soon

Saudi Arabia Architecture News 2021

23 Dec 2021
Dayira, Riyadh
Design: KOHLERSTRAUMANN

image courtesy of architects practice
Dayira, Riyadh Province
A round plane figure whose boundary (the circumference) consists of points equidistant from a fixed point in the centre. The design by KOHLERSTRAUMANN features elements that are suitable to the desert climate and lifestyle, including large walls of concrete and glass that showcase views of the natural landscape and open up to outdoor living spaces and materials that hold up well in the harsh heat and insulate the interiors from warm outdoor temperatures.

22 Dec 2021
JAX 01, Al Diriyah Al Jadidah, Riyadh
Architect: HWKN

image courtesy of architects practice
JAX 01 Exhibition Space, Saudi Arabia
JAX 01, the innovative exhibition space anchoring Saudi Arabia’s debut art biennial featuring works by 60+ participating artists, through March 11, 2022. Designed by New York-based global architecture firm HWKN with Q Design and Craft as the executive architect, the 7,000-square-meter warehouse-turned-exhibition space of free-flowing interiors and exteriors behind a dynamic facade, promises to become a showpiece of its own.

Riyadh Dream Villas Competition, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh Dream Villas Competition
YAC – Young Architects Competitions launch a new competition inviting architects to write a new chapter of living at the edge of Riyadh’s desert by designing two immeasurably valuable architectural interventions. The cash prize of € 25, 000 will be distributed to the winning proposals selected by an international jury panel composed of some of the most world-renowned architects: Sou Fujimoto, Ben Van Berkel and Benedetta Tagliabue.

3 Nov 2021
Thakher Gardens, Thakher city, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
Design: RMJM Architects

image courtesy of architects office
Thakher Gardens Makkah Buildings
RMJM Dubai’s Thakher Gardens won the Best Future Project of the Year by Design Middle East Awards 2021. The Design Middle East Awards aim at recognising the creative excellence of both individuals and companies, and their core strengths.

26 Oct 2021
Sipside Café, Jeddah Flagship Store

9 June 2021
Shurayrah Bridge, KSA
Design: Archirodon

image courtesy of architects practice
Shurayrah Bridge, Red Sea Development
The Red Sea Development Company appoints ARCHIRODON to design and build bridge to main hub island Shurayrah. Shurayrah bridge will act as a gateway between the mainland and the luxury tourism destination’s picturesque archipelago

9 May 2021
S Squares, Dammam City
Design: O Cifra

image courtesy of architects practice
S Squares Dammam City
O Cifra’s concept for S Squares is based on a circle as an ideal shape that forms the number 7 (like 7 wonders of the world) and S the name of showrooms.

17 Feb 2021
Ummahat Al Shayk Island Resort
Design: Kengo Kuma and Associates

image courtesy of architects practice
Ummahat Al Shayk Island Resort

More current Saudi Arabia Architecture News online here at e-architect soon

Saudi Arabia Architecture News 2020

5 Dec 2020
KAPSARC, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Design: Zaha Hadid Architects – ZHA

photo : Hufton+Crow
King Abdullah Petroleum Studies & Research Centre
King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Centre is a non-profit institution for independent research into policies that contribute to the most effective use of energy to provide social wellbeing across the globe.

5 Nov 2020
Prototype X Villa
Architect: Aala Qahtani Architects
Prototype X Villa
The Ministry of Housing in Saudi Arabia launched an initiative to support the design dreamers in the industry. They were offering high-quality designs and architecture prototypes by well-known architectural local firms, some valued at almost 10,000 Riyals, to introduce innovation in the sector.

3 Nov 2020
AlUla Resort
Architect: Jean Nouvel

image courtesy of architecture office
AlUla Resort, Sharaan Nature Reserve
Located deep within the Sharaan Nature Reserve, the designs draw on the nearby Nabataean wonders of Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. In a world-first, this 2,000-year-old architectural legacy is being revived by Jean Nouvel for potentially the first time since the Nabataeans carved into the region’s millions-of-years-old sandstone rock.

26 Oct 2020
King Fahad National Library, Riyadh
Design: Professor Eckhard Gerber – Gerber Architekten

photograph : Christian Richter
King Fahad National Library Riyadh
The King Fahad National Library, one of the most important cultural buildings in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was completed and went into use for its intended purpose in 2015. This project sees Professor Eckhard Gerber and his Gerber Architekten team accomplishing one of the most important urban development and cultural projects in the capital, Riyadh.

10 Aug 2020
Maraya AlUla concert venue, north west Saudi Arabia – ‘The largest mirrored building in the world’
Design: Florian Boje of Gio Forma, Milan

image courtesy of architects
Maraya AlUla concert venue
Maraya, a multi-purpose concert and entertainment venue in AlUla, Northwest Saudi Arabia, has been named a winner in one of the world’s biggest architecture awards.

6 July 2020
Riyadh Architecture Office News
LWK + PARTNERS opens 12th studio in Riyadh

17 Mar 2020
Triple Bay and The Coastal Development, Prince Mohammed bin Salman Nature Reserve, north west Saudi Arabia, the Middle East
Master Planners: HKS Architects

Triple Bay at AMAALA
Triple Bay & Coastal Development
AMAALA, the ultra-luxury destination located along Saudi Arabia’s northwestern coastline, has announced the appointment of international design firm HKS Architects as Master Planner for Triple Bay and The Coastal Development.

More new Saudi Arabia Architecture News online soon

KSA Architectural Updates 2019

16 Dec 2019
Home of Innovation, HOI, Riyadh Techno Valley, King Saud University, Riyadh
Design: Zuhair Fayez Partnership Consultants

image courtesy of SABIC Home of Innovation
SABIC Home of Innovation Riyadh
This green building project is the design of SABIC’s Home of Innovation in Riyadh.

10 Dec 2019
Gharfa at Diriyah Oasis, Diriyah Oasis, Riyadh
Design: Studio Studio Studio

photograph : Roberto Conte
Gharfa Pavilion Installation Riyadh
The new interdisciplinary lab founded by Edoardo Tresoldi, presents Gharfa: an experiential pavilion installation within the temporary creative project “Diriyah Oasis”, designed and curated by Dubai-based studio Designlab Experience, and located in the Saudi Arabian capital of Riyadh.

2 Dec 2019
Fogon Riyadh
Design: Hitzig Militello Architects

photography : Esteban Lobo
Fogon European Restaurant Riyadh
The idea for Fogon was a typical traditional London tavern, pub aesthetics was the premise of the client.

3 July 2019
Saudi Arabian Architecture Competition, Madinah
Design: Rafael de La-Hoz, Spain

image courtesy of architects office
The Noble Quran Oasis in Madinah, Landmark in KSA
The proposal is to highlight a striking Islamic Landmark to remain in the memory of the city’s visitors.

23 Feb 2019
The vision of Al-Ula:
Film on YouTube

The Royal Commission for Al Ula announced its vision to responsibly develop Al Ula as a world heritage destination centered around conservation and collaboration with the local community.

The Royal Commission broke ground on the site for the just-announced Sharaan Resort, a responsibly-designed development and summit center designed by iconic French architect Jean Nouvel.

More contemporary Saudi Arabia Architecture News on e-architect soon

Saudi Arabia Architecture News 2017

1 Sep + 9 Jun 2017
AlJabri Mosque Building, Ha’il – Iconic Awards 2017 – Winner
Design: Schiattarella Associati

image courtesy of architects
AlJabri Mosque in Ha’il
The European competition of the Iconic Awards under the aegis of the German Design Council, is the first neutral international competition embracing the whole world of architecture and design, including communication, construction sector and industry. Well known are the Media Partners of the 2017 edition: Atrium, Dezeen, World-architects.com.

31 Jan 2017
Jabal Omar Hotel Development, Mecca
Architects: Foster + Partners

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Jabal Omar Hotel Development in Mecca
Foster + Partners’ competition winning scheme for a new luxury hotel and serviced apartments in the heart of Makkah has been revealed. Inspired by traditional Arab architecture, it’s design reinterprets the traditional dense building clusters, creating a new contemporary vernacular that respects its sacred location.

More new Saudi Arabia Architecture News welcome for submission on e-architect

KSA Building Construction Updates 2016

16 Dec 2016
King Fahd International Stadium, Riyadh, KSA
Design: Schiattarella Associati, Architects

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King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh
Schiattarella Associati, in competition with other 5 internationally known architectural firms, prevailed for the planning quality of its proposal. The Rome-based architecture firm will sign the project for the modification of King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh commissioned by the General Sport Authority (GSA) and consisting of refurbishing most part of the Stadium able to guest almost 50,000 spectators.

page updated 28 Oct 2016 ; 26 Jan 2016
Jeddah Tower, Kingdom City, Jeddah
Date built: 2013-19
Architect: Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture with SWA, landscape architecture

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Jeddah Tower Saudi Arabia Skyscraper
At 1,000+ meters the Kingdom Tower to be the world’s tallest building, with a planned height of 1,008m / 3,307 ft and 167 floors. This new Saudi Arabian skyscraper appears in the CTBUH Top Company Rankings: The World’s 100 Tallest Buildings released today, October 28th, 2016.

24 Oct 2016
Urban Heritage Administration Centre, Diriyah, Addirriyah, north-western outskirts of the Saudi capital, Riyadh
Design: Zaha Hadid Architects, London

render : Methanoia
Urban Heritage Administration Centre in Diriyah
Zaha Hadid Architects has been awarded first prize in the design competition for the Urban Heritage Administration Centre in Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. The 8,780m² head office of the Heritage Museum is integral to the on-going works to preserve Diriyah’s historic UNESCO world heritage listed site, continuing the restoration programmes throughout the 120km Wadi Hanifah valley that also includes the re-establishment of its natural environments.

19 + 18 Oct 2016
Addiriyah Contemporary Art Center
Design: Schiattarella Associati, Architects

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Addiriyah Contemporary Art Center KSA
Schiattarella Associati awarded twice for Addiriyah Contemporary Art Center project in Saudi Arabia: ‘Concept Winner’ at this year’s ICONIC AWARDS and Honorable Mention at the American Architecture Prize 2016.

16 Sep 2016
The Piazza Multiple Residence, Jeddah
Design: Badih and Kantar Architects

image courtesy of architecture office
The Piazza Residence Jeddah
The Piazza is an intimate residential area. It draws its inspiration from the way Mediterranean cities have evolved over time to become places of character, and reinterprets the resulting communal feeling into a modern neighborhood.

13 Sep 2016
Al Zahraa Multiple Residence, Jeddah
Design: Badih and Kantar Architects

image courtesy of architect firm
Al Zahraa Residence in Jeddah, KSA
Divided into two main plots, long strips of narrowly attached residential units create a non-repetitive composition of positive and negative blocks of solid sheets providing privacy and front buffering gardens, thus protecting the houses from being exposed to the main traffic.

5 Aug 2016
Abraj Kudai Hotel, Mecca
Design: Dar Al Handasah

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Abraj Kudai Hotel in Mecca
Abraj Kudai is to become the world’s largest hotel located in Makkah, KSA and upon completion, will offer 10,000 rooms in 12 separate towers.

12 May 2016
Abdul Latif Jameel’s Corporate Headquarters Jeddah
Design: Andrew Bromberg of Aedas

image © AsymmetricA
Abdul Latif Jameel’s Corporate Headquarters, Jeddah
Currently in construction, this building will provide a centralised facility for 2,500 associates. This regional diversified business interests encompass automotive distribution, auto parts manufacturing, financial services, renewable energy, environmental services, land and real estate development, logistics, electronics retailing and media services.

28 Mar 2016
Ring House & Atelier, Riyadh
Design: Marwan Zgheib, MZ Architects

image from architect practice
The Ring House & Atelier in Riyadh, KSA