Do you know that Saudi Arabia is going on a new journey with its Vision 2030, which aims to strengthen economic and investment activity, enhance non-oil overseas commerce, and promote a softer, more progressive reputation for the nation? 

With this goal in mind, Saudi Arabia announces world’s largest ever downtown named New Murabba in Northwest Riyadh. 

The project is expected to be finished by 2030, adding to the country’s list of 15 planned megaprojects that would revolutionize the country.

About the Project

About the World's Largest Modern Downtown
  • New Murabba Development Company plans to provide citizens in every region of the city access to living, work, and leisure spaces within a 15-minute walking radius, focusing on sustainable neighbourhoods.
  • The world’s largest modern downtown in Riyadh will span 19 square kilometres at the juncture of King Salman and King Khalid highways and will include 104,000 housing units, 9,000 hotel rooms, and 980,000 square meters of commercial space.
  • The overall design is reminiscent of old Saudi riverbank towns, with dense clusters of buildings divided by narrow roadways that buffer residents from the blazing sun’s heat.
  • To elevate the project to iconic status, a new advanced technological structure is being added to New Murabba in Riyadh. The Mukaab, which means “the cube” in Arabic, is planned to be an impressive 400 meters long, wide, and high.

About the Mukaab

The Mukaab is probably the highlight of the world’s largest modern downtown, almost to the point of being compared to the iconic Empire State Building in the USA. It will be an immersive site that merges digital and virtual technologies with the newest holographic and will be inspired by the current Najdi architectural style. Mukaab is also dubbed as the everchanging Immersive world.

Sustainability to the Core

Sustainability to the Core: of world’s largest modern downtown

One of the things that sets the upcoming world’s largest modern downtown in Riyadh apart from other modern downtowns is its commitment to sustainability. The city has implemented a number of green initiatives, such as the use of renewable energy sources, waste management systems, and the promotion of eco-friendly transportation options. 

This commitment to sustainability has helped New Murabba become a leader in sustainable urban development, setting an example for cities around the world.

Why is New Murabba Chosen as the World’s Largest Modern Downtown?

Why is New Murabba Chosen as the World’s Largest Modern Downtown

1. Growing Urbanism

Located in Riyadh, New Murabba is a city that has rapidly grown into a major hub of commerce and culture. It covers an area of over 25 square kilometers and is home to over 15 million people. 

2. Trade and Commerce

The city’s skyline is dominated by towering skyscrapers, and the streets are alive with the sounds of bustling commerce and vibrant cultural activities. It’s no wonder that New Murabba has earned the title of the world’s largest modern downtown.

3. Vision

When you think of modern downtown, images of towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and luxurious shopping might come to mind, right? New Murabba Development Company plans to develop the space exactly that way!

4. Attractions

One of the key attractions of New Murabba- the world’s largest modern downtown is its top-class shopping. The city is home to some of the largest and most luxurious malls in the world, with names like the Murabba Center and the Riyadh Mall drawing in visitors from around the globe. These malls are filled with designer boutiques, luxury brand stores, and high-end restaurants, making them a paradise for shoppers and foodies alike.

5. Culture

But it’s not just the shopping that makes New Murabba so unique. The city is also known for its thriving arts and culture scene. The Riyadh Museum of Modern Art and the New Murabba Cultural Center showcase the work of some of the world’s most talented artists, and offer visitors a chance to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region. 

The city is also home to a number of world-renowned theaters, cinemas, and music venues, making it a cultural destination for tourists and locals alike.

6. Food

Of course, no visit to New Murabba would be complete without sampling the city’s famous cuisine. The streets are lined with a dazzling array of food vendors, offering everything from traditional local dishes to international cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy curries or sweet pastries, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds in New Murabba.

7. Futuristic Architecture

But it’s not just the shopping, culture, and cuisine that make New Murabba such an amazing place to visit. The city is also known for its stunning architecture, with buildings like the Murabba Tower and the Riyadh Financial Center standing as towering examples of modern design. The city’s skyline is a breathtaking sight, and visitors can spend hours wandering the streets, marveling at the sheer scale and beauty of the buildings around them.

8. History

New Murabba is not just a city of the present, but also one with a rich history. The city has been inhabited for centuries and has been influenced by a variety of cultures and traditions. Visitors can explore the city’s historic landmarks, such as the Al Murabba Palace, which dates back to the early 20th century, and the Masmak Fort, which was built in the 19th century.

History of Murabba
 bird's eye view of  world’s largest modern downtown
room of world’s largest modern downtown’ in Riyadh
A group of people standing around a giant statue
club area of world’s largest modern downtown’ in Riyadh
A very tall tower sitting in the middle of a forest
Saudi Arabia announces world’s largest ever downtown
Building with waterfall in the background

Are You Ready to See the Future of Urbanism?

Saudi Arabia is known to break ground, and The New Murabba, or the world’s largest downtown, will be one of them. Its unique blend of modernity and tradition, its world-class shopping and dining, and its rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. The city’s commitment to sustainability only adds to its appeal, making it a model for other cities to follow.

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