Saudi Arabia is rapidly transforming into a hub of innovation and development, thanks to the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030, spearheaded by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The kingdom is home to some of the world’s most extraordinary megaprojects. These developments are not just reshaping the country but are also positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading destination for tourism, culture, and sustainable living. Let’s take a journey through some of the most exciting projects currently underway.
Neom
Neom is perhaps the most futuristic of all Saudi Arabia’s megaprojects. Spanning a region the size of Belgium, Neom is located north of the Red Sea coastline and aims to redefine urban living. With plans for flying taxis, artificial moons, and glow-in-the-dark beaches, Neom is truly a city straight out of a sci-fi movie. Among its key projects are Oxagon, the world’s largest floating industrial complex, and The Line, a 170 km-long residential complex with zero cars, streets, or carbon emissions. The centerpiece, however, will be the Mirror Line, a skyscraper set to be the world’s longest, stretching 121 km.
Trojena
Located in Neom, Trojena will be a year-round ski resort, complete with outdoor skiing, adventure sports, and wellness retreats. The development will also feature an artificial freshwater lake and a high-tech village. In 2029, Trojena will host the Asian Winter Games, putting it on the global map for winter sports.
The Red Sea Project
The Red Sea Project is one of the most ambitious tourism developments in the world, covering 28,000 kilometers of islands, beaches, deserts, and even volcanoes. This eco-luxury destination will be 100% carbon neutral and feature no waste-to-landfill or single-use plastics. The development is expected to significantly boost Saudi Arabia’s GDP and attract millions of visitors annually.
Amaala
Amaala, positioned between Neom and The Red Sea, is set to become a premier family wellness destination. Spread across 4,155 square kilometers, it will feature a marine life institute, yacht club, and 3,000 hotel rooms. The development is divided into three sub-projects: Triple Bay, The Coastal Development, and The Island. Drawing inspiration from the nearby Red Sea, Amaala aims to offer a luxurious yet eco-friendly retreat.
Diriyah Gate
Diriyah, the original capital of Saudi Arabia, is being transformed into a major cultural and tourist destination. Located just 14 minutes from Riyadh, the project aims to attract 100,000 residents and 25 million visitors annually. The area will feature shops, restaurants, hotels, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Turaif. Diriyah Season, an annual event, will also bring world-class entertainment and sports to the area.
King Salman Park
King Salman Park in Riyadh will be four times the size of New York’s Central Park, covering 13.4 square kilometers. This green oasis will include vertical gardens, outdoor art exhibitions, sports facilities, and a butterfly conservatory. In addition, the area will feature hotels, homes, restaurants, and shops, making it a central hub for leisure and recreation in the capital.
Read more about King Salman Park here.
New Murabba
One of the most expensive megaprojects, New Murabba is an $800 billion project aimed at doubling the size and population of Riyadh. The development will include a museum, technology and design university, immersive theatre, and over 80 cultural and entertainment venues. The project will make Riyadh an even more vibrant cultural hotspot.
Jeddah Central Project
Jeddah, often referred to as the artistic capital of Saudi Arabia, is undergoing a significant transformation with the Jeddah Central Project. This $20 billion development will introduce an opera house, sports stadium, museum, and oceanarium to the city. Expected to be completed by 2027, the project will also include hotels, homes, beach resorts, and a marina, making Jeddah an even more vibrant cultural hub.
Jeddah Economic City
Jeddah Economic City is set to redefine the skyline of Jeddah with the world’s tallest building, Jeddah Tower. Standing at one kilometer tall, this skyscraper will be the centerpiece of a new urban development that includes homes, hotels, offices, and shopping malls. The project, spanning 5.3 million square meters, will also feature the world’s highest observation deck.
Jeddah Waterfront Project
The Jeddah Waterfront Project is part of the broader Jeddah Historical Rejuvenation Project. Aiming to reconnect Al Balad with the Red Sea, this project will transform the historic Al Bunt Port into a modern tourist destination. The development will include a marina for luxury yachts, green spaces, pedestrian overpasses, and public utilities, making it a key attraction in Jeddah.
Marafy
Marafy is Jeddah’s new waterfront destination, featuring an 11-km-long and 100-meter-wide canal. The development will be divided into districts, each with its own unique character inspired by Jeddah’s architectural heritage. An advanced transport system, including water taxis and a dedicated metro station, will connect the districts and ensure seamless movement throughout the city.
The North Pole
The North Pole project is a futuristic city in the north of Riyadh, featuring the world’s tallest building, Rise Tower. This slim, sleek structure will be powered by solar energy and renewable sources. The city will include air taxis, autonomous vehicles, and high-speed underground transport, along with homes, offices, and green spaces.
Konoz Box of Treasures
The Konoz Box of Treasures is an entertainment complex in Riyadh inspired by precious gemstones. The project includes a 20,000-square-meter entertainment city, 50,000 square meters of modern office spaces, retail and F&B outlets, a hotel, serviced apartments, and a residential complex. This development will further enhance Riyadh’s tourism and business offerings.
Qiddiya
One of the most exciting new upcoming mega projects in Saudi Arabia, Qiddiya is set to be the entertainment capital of Saudi Arabia. Located southwest of Riyadh, this family-friendly destination will include theme parks, water parks, sports facilities, and entertainment venues. Highlights include Six Flags Qiddiya, which will feature the world’s tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster.
Find out more about Qiddiya City with our full guide.
Qiddiya City Performing Arts Center
The cultural scene in Saudi Arabia is set for a major boost with the addition of a cutting-edge Performing Arts Centre in Qiddiya City. Located on the Tuwaiq cliffs, this venue will feature a cantilevered amphitheater and a 500-seat theatre suspended above the ground. Hosting over 260 performances annually across three theatres, this center will be a key player in the Kingdom’s cultural evolution.
Aquarabia Water Park
Riyadh will soon boast the largest waterpark in the Middle East, Aquarabia Water Park. Spanning 250,000 square meters, the park will feature 22 rides and attractions, including five record-breaking ones. Highlights include the world’s tallest water coaster, the longest water slide, and an underwater adventure ride with fully submersible cars. Aquarabia promises an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers and families alike.
Read more about Aquarabia Water Park here.
Dragon Ball Z Theme Park
Fans of the beloved anime series Dragon Ball Z will soon have a new destination in Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya City. The world’s first Dragon Ball theme park, spanning 500,000 square meters, will feature seven unique areas inspired by the series. With 30 rides and experiences, including a towering 70-meter Shenron statue, this park will be a dream come true for anime enthusiasts.
Qiddiya City F1 Track
Qiddiya City is set to add a thrilling chapter to its racing legacy with the Speed Park Track, designed for world-class motorsport events. With 21 corners and a 108-meter elevation gain per lap, the track is a true rollercoaster ride for both drivers and spectators. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Tuwaiq Mountains, the Speed Park Track aims to become a premier destination for Formula One and other high-octane events.
Read more about the Qiddiya City F1 Track.
King Abdullah International Gardens
Set to open in Riyadh in Autumn 2025, the King Abdullah International Gardens will be a world-leading center for climate change education. This innovative project will take visitors on a journey through 400 million years of Earth’s history, showcasing the evolution of plant life within expansive biomes. The gardens will serve as a crucial educational tool and a captivating attraction for all who visit..
Sharaan Nature Reserve
Sharaan Nature Reserve is focused on restoring the natural environment in a 925-square-kilometer area. The project will include a luxury retreat hidden within rocks, designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. The reserve aims to bring back native wildlife, including Arabian wolves and red foxes, making it a unique eco-tourism destination.
AlUla Manara Observatory
The AlUla Manara Observatory is designed to be a premier destination for stargazing and space exploration. This observatory, a collaboration between the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) and the SETI Institute, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including a Laser SETI instrument and advanced telescopes. Located just an hour from AlUla’s center, it will offer visitors unparalleled views of the cosmos, making it a hub for space research, education, and astro-tourism.
Find out more about AlUla Manara Observatory here.
Aramco Stadium
In Al Khobar, the new Aramco Stadium is under construction and is set to become a major sports venue in Saudi Arabia. With a seating capacity of 47,000, this architectural marvel draws inspiration from its coastal surroundings, mimicking the shape of a whirlpool. Backed by ROSHN and Aramco, the stadium will offer state-of-the-art amenities for spectators and players, ensuring a top-notch experience for all.
Neom Stadium
Neom, the Kingdom’s most ambitious megaproject, will soon be home to the Neom Stadium, a symbol of innovation and grandeur. Situated within The Line, this stadium will soar 350 meters above the ground, offering breathtaking views of the Red Sea and the desert. With a seating capacity of over 45,000, the stadium will provide a unique viewing experience, combining world-class sports with the beauty of nature.
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