SAUDI ARABIA: Construction starts on Jeddah Central

Jeddah Central Development Co has signed a contract to start construction work on the $20 billion Jeddah Central Project, previously known as New Jeddah Downtown.

The plan was launched by Jeddah Central’s chairman, HRH Prince Mohammed bi Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, in 2021 as a bid to create a world-class destination overlooking the Red Sea in the heart of Jeddah.

In addition to many landmarks, e.g. opera house, museum, sports stadium and oceanarium, it will have an extensive residential and hotel component as well as top class marina, beach resorts, restaurants and diverse shopping options.

The project contributes to achieving the objectives of Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative. It will be a smart destination and designed in line with global sustainability programmes to support the environment and the economy.

The waterfront component of the project is 9.5km (6mi) long and will feature a promenade, a marina for local and international vessels and a 2.1km (1.3mi) beach. Open spaces and public services make up 40% of the project area.

Jeddah Central Development Company was established in 2019 by the Public Investment Fund.