Leading architectural and engineering consultancy SSH has formed a strategic partnership with the King Abdullah Financial District Development & Management Company (KAFD DMC) in Saudi Arabia. This collaboration aims to deliver multiple packages encompassing architecture, comprehensive multi-disciplinary design, engineering design, and sub-consultancy services. By working with SSH, KAFD DMC enhances its vision of establishing Riyadh as a premier business and lifestyle destination.
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A Transformative Urban Hub
Nestled in the heart of Riyadh, KAFD spans an impressive 1.6 million square meters, featuring cutting-edge office spaces, world-class facilities, and luxurious residences. The development is designed to revolutionize urban living, working, and recreational experiences. Located just 22 kilometers from King Khalid Airport, KAFD is pivotal to Riyadh’s economic aspirations and stands as the world’s largest LEED-certified mixed-use financial district. The area is owned and managed by KAFD DMC, which is committed to fostering a vibrant urban community.
Expanding Entertainment Offerings
SSH has been awarded several key projects within KAFD, focusing on delivering design and multi-disciplinary services for various facilities. These include hotels, branded residences, retail units, dining outlets, parking facilities, and entertainment venues, notably a multiplex cinema.
Commitment to Vision 2030
Matt Squires, CEO of SSH, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “As Saudi Arabia’s flagship business center in the heart of Riyadh, we are thrilled to be a key partner of choice for KAFD. Developments like KAFD allow us to collaborate with our clients, bringing our design and engineering expertise to shape this dynamic global business and leisure hub positively. We believe KAFD will emerge as one of the world’s most notable business and lifestyle districts, and we are committed to supporting KAFD’s and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to enhance economic growth through infrastructure development, real estate, tourism, and hospitality.”
Industry Opportunities and Growth
Saudi Arabia continues to present substantial opportunities for the construction and development sectors. Companies within the Kingdom are expanding their teams and operations, highlighting the importance of this market as a sustainable pillar for their businesses. Over the past five years, SSH has significantly increased its investment and commitment to this key market, positioning itself as a trusted partner. The consultancy is dedicated to helping its clients realize their ambitious projects while playing a vital role in advancing the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
KAFD DMC’s Vision for a Living District
Gautam Sashittal, CEO of KAFD DMC, shared insights on the district’s vision: “From the outset, our goal at KAFD DMC has been to create and operate a vibrant 24/7 living district where tenants, residents, employees, and visitors can seamlessly work, live, and play. We anticipate the district’s workforce and residents to reach 100,000 by the end of 2024. Consequently, we are expanding our mixed-use offerings and are excited to collaborate with SSH to enhance our infrastructure, increasing parking and adding more hospitality, retail, and entertainment options for our community.”
Innovative Connectivity Solutions
KAFD is designed for optimal internal connectivity through its innovative “10-minute city” strategy, which allows easy access to amenities and facilities. The district promotes sustainable transportation options, including electric scooters and ride-sharing solutions that integrate information, technology, infrastructure, and user experiences. This urban environment features over 40 climate-controlled sky bridges, ensuring effortless navigation for residents and visitors alike. Future enhancements will include a monorail service, further integrating the entire district and enriching the overall experience.
Through this partnership and development, KAFD is poised to redefine urban living in Riyadh, offering a unique blend of business, lifestyle, and entertainment that aligns with the Kingdom’s broader economic goals.
