5 residential projects transforming Riyadh ahead of Expo 2030
Saudi Arabia’s construction sector is not simply expanding, it’s redefining global benchmarks for scale, ambition, and innovation. With nearly US$1.4 trillion in active projects, US$108 billion in contractor awards secured in 2024 alone, and a quarterly GDP contribution exceeding US$11 billion, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a global construction powerhouse.
At the heart of this transformation is Riyadh, a capital city undergoing one of the largest urban expansions in the world. Already a regional hub for government, commerce, and culture, Riyadh is now central to Vision 2030’s mission of economic diversification and quality-of-life enhancement. Plans to grow the population to over 15 million by 2030 are supported by a bold infrastructure and real estate strategy that is reshaping the city’s skyline.
A rising focus on residential development
Among all construction segments, the building sector continues to lead the charge. Residential development in particular is witnessing accelerated growth, fueled by rising homeownership demand, innovative housing programs, and a surge of foreign investment. In the first half of 2024 alone, 184 international companies moved their regional HQs to Saudi Arabia, while 4,000 new investor visas were issued, further strengthening the need for high-quality, livable urban spaces.
These dynamics are setting the stage for Riyadh to become a model of smart, sustainable, and human-centric city living. As the city prepares to host Expo 2030, several residential projects are emerging as iconic symbols of progress. Below, we highlight five standout developments that are helping define the future of urban life in Riyadh.
Sedra by ROSHN
Sedra is a landmark residential project developed by ROSHN, the PIF-backed real estate powerhouse tasked with redefining housing across Saudi Arabia.
Spanning over 20 million square meters, Sedra is designed as a fully integrated community offering a mix of villas, apartments, retail outlets, schools, and mosques.
New Murabba and the Mukaab
The New Murabba project is a transformative downtown development spanning 19 square kilometers, making it one of the most ambitious urban projects ever launched in the Kingdom.
At its core is The Mukaab, a 400-meter-tall cube-shaped skyscraper and immersive urban landmark set to become the largest building in the world by volume.
Diriyah Gate Residential District
The Diriyah Gate project is a cultural masterplan centered on the restoration of Al-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Alongside museums, galleries, and traditional souks, the development will feature 20,000+ residential units designed in the Najdi architectural style to reflect Saudi Arabia’s deep cultural roots.
King Salman Park Residential Clusters
When complete, King Salman Park will be the largest urban park in the world, covering 16.6 square kilometers.
The park is also set to become a residential destination featuring 12,000 housing units and a range of hospitality developments.
Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City (MiSK City)
Announced as the world’s first nonprofit city, MiSK City reflects the growing importance of knowledge, innovation, and youth development in the Kingdom’s future.
The 3.4 square kilometer development will host educational institutions, R&D hubs, art spaces, and residential neighborhoods tailored to students, researchers, and families.
Looking ahead to Expo 2030
With Riyadh set to host Expo 2030, these developments are more than just housing, they’re milestones in Saudi Arabia’s journey toward becoming one of the world’s most advanced, livable, and inclusive urban centers. Residential communities are being reimagined not just for the present, but for the generations to come.
From cultural authenticity to technological integration, from sustainability to inclusivity, Riyadh’s real estate landscape is now a reflection of the country’s broader transformation. These five projects exemplify how residential infrastructure is not just keeping pace with national growth, but actively shaping its direction.
Explore more about Riyadh’s real estate evolution and discover investment opportunities at Scavo.
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