TLDR:
Saudi firm unveils smart city project
Heart of Khobar spans 268,000 sqm
Mixed-use plan aims to attract investment
RIYADH (The Thursday Times) — Saudi Arabia’s Tilal Real Estates has unveiled a visionary $1.6 billion plan to build a smart city on the Kingdom’s eastern coast. Known as the ‘Heart of Khobar,’ this extensive development in the port city of Khobar will cover an area of around 268,000 square metres and is designed to integrate residential, commercial, and recreational facilities in a single, cohesive urban landscape. The project is expected to support both Khobar’s economic appeal and Saudi Arabia’s commitment to future-ready infrastructure.
This major development will span 14 sectors, incorporating housing, shopping, leisure, offices, and community spaces. The ‘Heart of Khobar’ aims to become a beacon of innovation, featuring cinemas, parks, a variety of hotels, and substantial car parking capacity to meet the needs of residents and tourists alike. As part of its integrated approach, the project includes over 250 hotel rooms, targeting an elevated standard of living and a seamless lifestyle for residents and visitors. The mixed-use development is expected to enhance Khobar’s image as a liveable and investable city, especially in light of Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on creating sustainable urban hubs.
The Heart of Khobar project underscores Saudi Arabia’s shift towards smart city infrastructure, with a view to creating a lasting impact on lifestyle and business standards in the region. By incorporating advanced digital technology and eco-friendly solutions, the development aims to promote efficient energy use and foster a connected, interactive community. This project is anticipated to provide a balanced approach to urbanisation by blending modern amenities with green spaces.
Burgeoning Saudi real estate
Positioned as a strategic asset in Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning real estate sector, this three-phase project is expected to unfold over the next four years, further solidifying Khobar’s economic status. It marks a significant investment into a sector set for transformative growth, as Saudi Arabia attracts both local and international investors. Through a phased construction process, the development’s expansive plan seeks to address the diverse needs of a population experiencing rapid urbanisation, providing Khobar with state-of-the-art facilities for living, work, and entertainment.
