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New Downtown Jeddah

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

2021 - Ongoing
DowntownLarge Urban ProjectTouristicWaterfront

Project Description

Approach Words: Sustainability, Urban Livability, Vibrant City

Public Policy Instruments: Organization, Physical Intervention, Planning

The New Downtown Jeddah Project, also known as the Jeddah Central Development Project, is a transformative urban redevelopment initiative in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.1 This development project aims to create a vibrant, modern city center that blends cultural, recreational, and urban elements while preserving Jeddah’s rich heritage.2

Launched in 2019, the project is strategically located along the Red Sea.3 It is envisioned as “a vibrant destination, offering diverse investment opportunities and enhancing the quality of life in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030”.4 5
Its key objectives include revitalizing Jeddah by introducing world-class cultural and recreational attractions and enhancing urban sustainability as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy.6 7 8

Title: Aerial View of the New Downtown Jeddah Master Plan.

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Title: New Downtown Jeddah Master Plan Phase 1.

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Title: New Downtown Jeddah Master Plan Phase 2.

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Title: New Downtown Jeddah Master Plan Phase 3.

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Spanning 5.7 million square meters, the Jeddah Central Development Project incorporates multiple advanced components,9 including:

  • A 9.5-kilometer waterfront with a 2.1-kilometer public beach, offering leisure and recreational spaces.10
  • Four iconic landmarks: an Opera House, a Museum, a Sports Stadium, and an Oceanarium, designed to host world-class events.11
  • Residential and hospitality developments, including 17,000 housing units and 2,700 hotel rooms.12
  • A 500-berth marina, complemented by restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers to enhance the city’s appeal.13

In terms of sustainability, the project integrates eco-friendly practices, smart technologies, and green spaces, inspired by Jeddah’s historic14 Hijazi architecture while embracing modern urban design principles.15 16

The implementation of the Jeddah Central Development Project is driven by a coalition of stakeholders.17 The Jeddah Central Development Company (JCDC), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), serves as the master developer.18 Key collaborators include Modern Building Leaders (MBL), tasked with infrastructure and marine works, and China Railway Construction Corporation and Sama Construction, responsible for building the Sports Stadium.19 20The project is being executed in three phases:

  • Phase 1 [Completion by 2027]: Encompasses 45% of the project, including the Sports Stadium, Oceanarium, Opera House, and public beach.21
  • Phase 2 [Completion by 2030]: Focuses on cultural and educational facilities, such as a museum and library, alongside innovation and wellness districts.22
  • Phase 3 [Post-2030]: Introduces green walkways, an art village, and coral conservation areas to enhance urban sustainability and quality of life.23

Currently under development, this $19.98 billion project is set to redefine Jeddah as a global hub for culture, recreation, and sustainable urban living.24

Project Link, Endnotes and References

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