Ahead of Expo 2030, Riyadh makes infrastructure investments

Anticipated over the next seven years, Riyadh is poised to undergo a remarkable doubling in size, fuelled by an ambitious investment of $1 trillion in projects across the Saudi capital. This expansive initiative, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aims to fortify Riyadh's infrastructure and accommodate the projected twofold increase in its population in the years to come. This significant development was unveiled a month ahead of the Cityscape Global Expo. The announcement by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has set in motion a construction wave in the Saudi capital, resulting in the awarding of contracts valued at approximately $12.2 billion. Notably, an additional $18 billion in projects is currently in the pipeline, undergoing bidding and evaluation, with plans to allocate an extra $170 billion shortly. Among the approved ventures is the groundbreaking construction of the world's largest new passenger terminal at King Salman International Airport.

Riyadh's aspirations were further underscored by its bid to host Expo 2030, embodying a transformative master plan with an investment of $7.8 billion. This strategic move aims to propel Riyadh into a global hub for health, education, research, and business. Currently contributing approximately 50 per cent to the country's non-oil-based economy, Riyadh envisions joining the ranks of the world's top ten cities by 2030. The Cityscape Global Expo organizers disclosed that extensive citywide infrastructure plans in Riyadh have garnered support from Saudi Arabian authorities. These projects, alongside initiatives such as NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and Qiddya, will take centre stage at the event, with additional undisclosed projects slated for revelation. The collective efforts reflect Riyadh's commitment to emerge as a world-class hub in various domains, marking a significant chapter in the city's evolution.