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Transforming Riyadh into a world-class city

25 July 2024

 

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Riyadh is changing fast. As the Saudi capital, it is not only located in the country’s geographical centre, but also at the heart of Vision 2030 and the kingdom’s economic transformation, with a wide range of ambitious development projects.

The city wants to be one of the best in the world. “The strategic vision for Riyadh focuses on transforming it into a world-class city that is sustainable, innovative and culturally rich,” says Fahad AlSolaie, deputy mayor for digital transformation and smart cities at Riyadh Region Municipality. 

“The vision includes improving quality of life for residents, diversifying the economy away from oil dependence, and promoting green and smart urban development.”

Riyadh’s ambitions are driven by population growth and people visiting the city for major global events. “Riyadh is expected to experience significant population growth in the coming years, driven by its economic expansion and global events hosted by the kingdom, such as Expo 2030 and major sports events,” says AlSolaie.

“Additionally, the presence of large-scale unique projects like the King Abdullah Global Gardens, the development of Wadi Al-Sulay, King Salman Park and others contribute to the city’s attractiveness and livability, further boosting population growth. It is targeted for the population of Riyadh to reach 10 million residents, reflecting its rising prominence as a business and cultural hub. This growth will enhance Riyadh’s status as a dynamic urban centre, equipped to meet the evolving needs of its expanding population.”

The vision includes improving quality of life, diversifying the economy, and promoting green and smart urban development
Fahad AlSolaie, Riyadh Region Municipality

Infrastructure projects

Riyadh Region Municipality is playing a key role in the city’s development. “Riyadh municipality is responsible for a wide array of infrastructure projects that are crucial for the city’s development and sustainability. These include paving, asphalting and road stabilisation projects, which are essential for maintaining and improving the city’s road networks,” says AlSolaie.

“The municipality develops public parks, ensuring that the necessary infrastructure is in place to provide recreational spaces. Bridge and tunnel construction and ongoing enhancements are also a significant focus, aimed at improving traffic flow and connectivity across the city. Furthermore, Riyadh is committed to extensive lighting projects and the maintenance of these systems, with the city one of the largest globally in terms of the number of streetlight poles.” 

A key responsibility of the municipality is to maintain the city’s cleanliness and environmental health, adds AlSolaie. “This involves regular street cleaning, waste management and pollution control measures to keep the city clean and environmentally sustainable. These efforts are integral to quality of life, contributing to the vision of making Riyadh a more livable and accessible urban environment.”

Signature schemes

The municipality is also involved in the delivery of a series of signature projects in and around Riyadh. “The King Abdullah Global Gardens project aims to create a vast green space that combines natural landscapes with high-tech interactive exhibits, promoting environmental education and sustainability,” says AlSolaie. 

The Wadi Al-Sulay development, meanwhile, is focused on transforming Wadi Al-Sulay into a recreational and cultural destination, featuring amenities that encourage outdoor activities and community gatherings.

The municipality collaborates extensively with other government agencies and private sector partners to ensure cohesive and integrated development. This includes coordinating efforts on large-scale projects, urban planning and infrastructure improvements to support the city’s growth.

“The municipality ensures alignment with master developers and major projects through regulatory frameworks, strategic planning sessions and collaborative platforms that facilitate integration of infrastructure projects and urban development efforts across the city,” says AlSolaie.

With aspirations to become one of the world’s most advanced cities, digital transformation is helping Riyadh achieve its goals. “Digital transformation is vital for Riyadh Municipality for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it enhances service efficiency by adopting digital technologies, streamlining operations, reducing manual processes, minimising errors and speeding up response times. This not only improves service delivery, but also cuts operational costs, allowing for better resource allocation. 

“Secondly, it improves citizen engagement through digital platforms that enable interactive and responsive communication. Citizens can easily access information, request services and provide feedback, enhancing transparency and building trust.

“Thirdly, digital transformation fosters innovation in urban management using technologies such as the Internet of Things , artificial intelligence and big data analytics to optimise urban functionalities like smart waste monitor manholes and public safety. 

“Additionally, it supports economic diversification by modernising infrastructure and services, thus attracting new businesses, especially in the technology sector, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030,” says AlSolaie.

Online services

Riyadh Region Municipality is moving its services online as part of the digital transformation. “Riyadh municipality is progressively digitising its services by offering e-services platforms where residents can access various municipal services such as mobile applications, geoportal web application and service requests online, thus increasing accessibility and convenience,” says AlSolaie. 

The drive to digitise will enable Riyadh to become a smart city. “By implementing advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence and geographic information systems, Riyadh Municipality is optimising key city functions such as reducing and monitoring visual pollution, enhancing public safety and conducting environmental monitoring,” he says. 

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Colin Foreman

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