King Salman District

Location: Central Riyadh, Riyadh Region, KSA
Client: Riyadh Region Municipality
Area: 6.6 kM2
Buildings scope: 24  buildings & 21 Façade renovations
Approximate Construction Cost: 1.39 Billion SR
Completion Date: 28/04/2024
Services Provided: Architectural Design | Engineering Design | Infrastructure Engineering | Landscape Architecture | Planning & Urban Design

 

CHALLENGE

The Al-Waha and Salah Al-Din neighborhoods, despite their strategic location near King Salman Park, the Sports Boulevard, and the Riyadh Metro, suffered from fragmented mobility, outdated infrastructure, and underutilized public spaces. The challenge was to transform these existing districts into a cohesive, human-centric environment while aligning with Salmani architectural principles and Riyadh’s future vision

APPROACH

Dar Al Omran – Rasem Badran (DAO) developed an integrated masterplan based on detailed site analysis, mobility studies, and urban assessments. The strategy prioritized walkability, connectivity, and a clear urban structure, while embedding Salmani principles to ensure cultural identity.

Key interventions included traffic calming, enhanced pedestrian and cycling networks, infrastructure upgrades, and the creation of shaded, activated public spaces. Continuous coordination with stakeholders ensured alignment and implementation feasibility.

IMPACT

The project transforms the districts into vibrant, accessible, and human-centered neighborhoods, significantly enhancing quality of life and urban performance. It establishes a unified identity, improves connectivity, and supports sustainable growth.

With an estimated value of SAR 1.5 billion, the project demonstrates DAO’s ability to deliver large-scale urban regeneration aligned with both cultural context and modern urban needs.

Humanizing the District

At its heart, the district prioritizes the human dimension, focusing on creating spaces where residents can thrive in a healthy, vibrant environment. This is achieved by addressing existing urban challenges such as congestion, disconnected infrastructure, and a lack of pedestrian-friendly spaces. Through a series of planned interventions, the district is transformed into a walkable, community-centered space, encouraging a more active, outdoor lifestyle. The emphasis on pedestrian infrastructure fosters accessibility and inclusivity, offering safe, well-designed pathways, cycling lanes, and public plazas that encourage social interaction and connectivity.

Activating Public Spaces

By elevating the urban environment through green spaces, cultural landmarks, and advanced technology, the King Salman District positions Riyadh as a city of the future, where people and technology coexist in harmony. The district’s transformation serves as a model for urban living, fostering a sense of community, enhancing mobility, and enriching the everyday experiences of its residents. Ultimately, it not only improves the quality of life for local neighborhoods but also contributes to Riyadh’s position as a global leader in urban innovation and quality of life standard