Central Riyadh

Client: N/A
Services Provided: Planning & Urban Design
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Built-up Area: NA

Challenge:

The central area of Riyadh has long been characterized by its permeable, walkable street structure, but this connectivity has been compromised by the introduction of urban motorways, severely affecting pedestrian mobility. This severance limits access to important commercial, social, and cultural activities within the city. The challenge was to repair these broken connections and improve pedestrian accessibility, while fostering a city center that supports both human interaction and vibrant economic growth.

Approach:
An evidence-based methodology was employed in two stages to guide the design and development process:

  • Stage 1 (Diagnostic Phase): A comprehensive analysis of Riyadh’s spatial accessibility was conducted to understand patterns of movement, connectivity, and the impact of urban motorways.
  • Stage 2 (Urban Design Strategy): Insights from the analysis were used to identify opportunities and constraints for pedestrian movement. Urban design strategies were developed to enhance connectivity, walkability, and accessibility, focusing on creating a continuous and legible street network.

The approach prioritized reconnecting fragmented areas of the city, fostering a pedestrian-centric environment that encourages natural interactions between people and activities.

 

Impact:

The proposed masterplan transforms central Riyadh into a more connected, walkable, and vibrant city. Key outcomes include:

  • Living Heritage: Preserving and integrating heritage assets into daily life and cultural landmarks.
  • Community Hubs: Mixed-use spaces fostering inclusivity and a sense of community.
  • Enhanced Connectivity: A seamless and navigable urban layout promoting social interaction.
  • Cultural and Economic Growth: Supporting creative industries and leveraging assets for economic opportunities.
  • Sustainability: Encouraging walking, cycling, and public transport for a greener, healthier environment.

This regeneration program positions Riyadh as an inclusive, sustainable, and culturally rich global city that respects its heritage while embracing innovation.

 

The Morphological Narrative

The masterplan of this project aimed at developing the boulevards of the Justice Palace District, while keeping the existing shops in addition to the introduction of new ones ensuring diversity of options for retail, coffeeshops, and restaurants to include different segments in each zone on both sides of the road. This also included the enhancement of walkability, introduction of cycling lanes and ensuring connectivity and integration with the surrounding areas and the rest of the city (on both the macro and micro levels). The project also incorporated a tourism strategy linking all of the assets, a plan to improve the standards of services and neighborhoods, and design options for celebrating the memory the Old Riyadh city wall. The major aspect of this project was the development and improvement of the Architectural and urban environment of the Justice Palace district while preserving the Najdi identity and introducing the Salmani Architectural language where necessary.

“Successful stories always begin with a vision, and the most successful visions are those built on the basis of strengths.”