Author: APAB-China Institute For Economics And Policy
As Saudi Arabia undertakes a large-scale economic transformation, many large-scale projects have sprung up. In this wave of development, Chinese construction engineering companies and building materials manufacturers are seizing business opportunities and deeply participating in the construction of real estate and related fields in Saudi Arabia by virtue of their outstanding strength and keen business sense.
Saudi Real Estate Refinance Corporation and Alrajhi Bank recently extended a deal worth $2.9 billion, a move that not only breathes new life into the Saudi real estate market, but also provides a broader scope for Chinese construction and engineering companies to work together. At the same time, the 24 large-scale development projects in Saudi Arabia are in the pipeline, which has built an excellent platform for Chinese companies to demonstrate their strength and expand their business.
These large-scale projects cover a wide range of sectors, including infrastructure development, residential development, and commercial complexes, each of which carries an important mission for Saudi Arabia to diversify its economy and enhance its international status. For Chinese construction and engineering companies, this means huge market demand and cooperation opportunities. With rich construction experience, advanced technology and efficient project management capabilities, they have won a good reputation and wide recognition in the Saudi market.
And in this construction boom, Chinese building materials manufacturers also play an indispensable role. They provided high-quality building materials and equipment for the Saudi project, which not only ensured the smooth progress of the project, but also established a good image for the Chinese brand in the international market. Through close cooperation with local and government departments in Saudi Arabia, Chinese building materials manufacturers have successfully entered the Saudi market and achieved rapid business growth.
In the construction of large-scale projects in Saudi Arabia, Chinese construction engineering companies and building materials manufacturers will actively participate in them with an unprecedented attitude. With their excellent strength and keen market insight, they stand out in the fierce market competition and contribute China’s wisdom and strength to Saudi Arabia’s large-scale transformation.
This article is the 81st article in the series of “Saudi Business Experience” of the Arab-Chinese Industrial Research Institute, which provides an in-depth introduction to the industrial policies, laws and regulations, industrial trends, market demand, competitive landscape and potential transaction opportunities in the fields of investment, trade and engineering construction between China and the Arab States.
We will list some of the larger projects below:
1、The Line: Saudi Arabia’s dream of a vertical city
In NEOM, a mega-urban development project in northwestern Saudi Arabia, a linear urban project called The Line is quietly emerging. The vertical city, which stretches for more than 170 kilometers, is conceived as a carbon-neutral city of the future and aims to revolutionize the perception of the city through its densely walkable design.
The Line will contain all the essentials of city living: homes, schools, workplaces and parks. These places are easily accessible to residents on foot, by public transport, or by the high-speed rail network. The city’s design philosophy is to integrate nature and green spaces to maximize resource efficiency while providing a high quality of life for the projected 9 million residents.
The Line’s vertical design is one of its most striking features. This design is designed to minimise land and energy use while keeping residents close together through social spaces. The towering 500-metre-tall building will feature modular, mixed-use pods that are organized in a way that promotes ongoing social interaction and outdoor activities, allowing residents to feel the warmth of community while enjoying the conveniences of the city.
Cutting-edge technology will be everywhere in the city. The introduction of technologies such as autonomous transportation will further improve the quality of life of residents and promote the sustainable development of cities. As part of Saudi Vision 2030, The Line’s opening promises to fundamentally transform urban design and connectivity, while reducing Saudi Arabia’s environmental footprint and contributing to the country’s goal of diversifying its economy.
Overall, The Line is a bold attempt at the city of the future in Saudi Arabia. With its unique design concept, efficient use of resources and cutting-edge technology applications, the city has demonstrated to the world Saudi Arabia’s ambitions in urban construction and development.
2、Nolana: A model of ultra-modern housing in Saudi Arabia
In the vast expanse of northwestern Saudi Arabia, a brand new residential community called Norlana is quietly emerging. As a shining jewel in NEOM’s grand vision, Norlana attracts global attention with its ultra-modern design and luxurious living experience.
This residential community on the shores of the Gulf of Aqaba consists of 711 well-designed properties. The properties, including mansions, apartments, and beach villas, are artfully blended with the surrounding natural sand dunes to create a harmonious and unique aesthetic. Here, residents can enjoy a luxurious life while also feeling the charm of nature.
Norlana offers a wide variety of lifestyle facilities for its residents. A 120-berth marina, an 18-hole golf course, an equestrian centre, and water sports and sailing facilities are all available to meet residents’ quest for a high quality of life. These facilities not only enhance the overall quality of the community, but also provide residents with more possibilities to enjoy life.
However, Norlana’s real shine lies in its unwavering commitment to sustainability. From design to construction, every step of the process is fully considered for the protection of the coastal and marine environment. This ultimate pursuit of environmental protection is not only reflected in the selection of building materials, but also in the overall planning and operation concept of the community.
At Norlana, residents can enjoy ultra-luxury living while dive deeper into the beauty and culture of the area. Whether you’re immersed in sports, health or passion, you’ll find your own way of life. This unique living experience has made Norlana one of the most storied residential communities in Saudi Arabia and around the world.
Overall, Norlana is not only a residential community that offers luxury living, but also an eco-friendly example of a commitment to sustainability. Its emergence not only injects new vitality into the Saudi real estate market, but also provides valuable experience and inspiration for the construction of sustainable communities around the world. As an important part of NEOM’s regional development plan, the future of Norlana is full of possibilities and expectations.
3、Utamo: Saudi Arabia’s new immersive arts and entertainment landmark
On the coastline of the Gulf of Aqaba in northwestern Saudi Arabia, a new arts and entertainment destination is on the rise of Utamo. As part of NEOM’s ambitious project, Utamo has been in the global spotlight with its unique immersive experience and unparalleled architectural design.
Nestled in a mountain cocoon, Utamo is a building known for its harmony with its natural environment. The designers have cleverly exploited the surrounding natural beauty, integrating the architecture with the landscape to create a paradise for visitors.
As a venue dedicated to music, art and cultural events, Utamo offers visitors the ultimate sensory experience through a state-of-the-art audiovisual system. Here, the world’s greatest artists will showcase their talents in an exclusive performance space, while audiences can indulge in a feast of art in the VIP lounge and specialty restaurants.
Utamo’s sustainability philosophy is evident throughout the project. From design to construction, cutting-edge eco-friendly technologies are used at every step to minimize environmental impact. This unwavering commitment to sustainability extends not only to the building itself, but also to the operation and management of the project.
Visitors can reach Utamo via the landscaped garden trail, which is flanked by a variety of plants and provides a peaceful and beautiful environment for visitors. The 64-metre-high entrance hall welcomes every visitor with its grandeur.
The emergence of Utamo has injected new vitality into Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry. It complements other sustainable tourism destinations along the recently announced Gulf of Aqaba coastline, such as Leyja, Epicon and Siranna, and forms an integral part of NEOM’s regional development plan. With these projects progressing, there is reason to believe that Saudi Arabia will become a tourist destination in the global spotlight.
4、Silana: Saudi Arabia’s new landmark for luxury and sustainable tourism
On the coastline of the Gulf of Aqaba in northwestern Saudi Arabia, a new exclusive tourist destination is on the rise, Siranna. As part of NEOM’s mega-project, Siranna is in the global spotlight for its luxurious accommodations and unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Siranna will consist of a 65-room luxury hotel and 35 high-end residential properties that will provide visitors with unobstructed views of the Red Sea. The unique design of the hexagonal pillar architecture blends perfectly with the rugged mountains and abundant flora, creating a modern and natural retreat for visitors.
Visitors to Siranna will arrive at this secluded bay by boat and pass through natural rock formations to a fascinating entrance. Here, they can relax and think outside the box at beach clubs, spas, wellness facilities and great dining options.
Sustainability has been a central focus in the development of Siranna. The project team employs advanced technology to preserve the surrounding landscape and heritage, ensuring that a luxurious experience is provided while minimising the impact on the environment. In addition, trails that connect ocean, mountain, and wadi ecosystems provide visitors with abundant opportunities to explore and immerse themselves in the beauty of this natural wonder.
In line with NEOM’s regional vision, Siranna will provide visitors with an ultra-luxury hospitality experience while supporting sustainable living in the future. This goal complements other tourist destinations recently announced in the Gulf of Aqaba with a shared commitment to creating space in nature, fostering creativity through conservation-focused development.
With Siranna up and running, there is reason to believe that it will become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia and around the world.
5、Epicon: Saudi’s new landmark for coastal luxury
In Saudi Arabia’s grand blueprint NEOM, a new luxury coastal destination called Epicon is on the rise. Located in the Gulf of Aqaba, this striking project features two towers up to 275 meters tall and houses an ultra-exclusive hotel and luxury residences with a total of 41 rooms.
In addition to the towers, Epicon will include a 120-room resort and 45 beachfront villas. Luxuriously designed, these residences and villas incorporate cutting-edge innovations and world-class services and facilities designed to create an iconic living experience for residents and visitors alike.
At Epicon, visitors and residents can indulge in amenities such as beach clubs, spas, water sports, and destination restaurants overlooking the stunning coastline. These facilities not only provide a comfortable environment for relaxation, but also provide the opportunity to indulge in luxury living in a spectacular bay landscape.
As part of NEOM, Epicon strives to be a benchmark destination that allows visitors and residents to escape the daily stresses and enjoy tranquility and luxury by offering state-of-the-art facilities in a spectacular bay landscape.
At the same time, in line with the goal of strengthening NEOM’s ecotourism sector, another sustainable tourism development project called Leyja was also announced for development in a natural valley environment. Together, Epicon and Leyja will enrich the experience of NEOM and the wider Saudi tourism industry, aligning with the Kingdom’s vision.
Overall, Epicon is not only a luxury new landmark in Saudi Arabia’s coastal region, but also an important part of NEOM’s grand plan. Its emergence will inject new vitality into the Saudi tourism industry and provide new options for the global luxury travel market.
6、Leia: A tourist destination in Saudi Arabia where nature and luxury are perfectly blended
In NEOM, the grand blueprint for the northwest corner of Saudi Arabia, a new tourist destination – Leyja – is quietly emerging. Centered on a natural valley and surrounded by 400-metre-high mountains, this stunning place is located on the shores of the Gulf of Aqaba, and its presence will breathe new life into Saudi tourism.
What makes Leyja unique is its ultimate respect for and protection of nature. The project plans to dedicate 95% of the land to nature conservation, offering exquisite accommodation in only three beautifully designed hotels. Each of the three 40-room hotels has its own unique theme and style, catering to the different needs of visitors for adventure, relaxation and wellness.
In Leyja, visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences around sustainability and nature. There will be fine dining options prepared by world-renowned chefs, allowing visitors to enjoy the food while feeling the gift of nature. In addition, wellness facilities such as infinity pools and guided activities such as hiking trails and rock climbing will allow visitors to experience the charm of nature while enjoying the stunning mountain views.
Leyja’s goal is not only to develop eco-friendly tourism, but also to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan. By preserving the natural environment of the unique valley environment, Leyja aims to create a luxury and eco-friendly destination for Saudi Arabia that will attract the attention of tourists from all over the world.
Overall, Leyja is a shining jewel in Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry. Its appearance not only enriches the tourism resources of Saudi Arabia, but also provides a unique experience for tourists from all over the world to experience the perfect combination of nature and luxury.
