ROSHN Launches Waterfront Walkway Revamp in Jeddah

ROSHN Group, Saudi Arabia’s leading national real estate developer, has announced a major revitalization of the ROSHN Waterfront in Jeddah, a destination that welcomes over 55 million visitors annually. The initiative, titled “Renewing and Coloring Your Steps,” aims to promote community engagement, support local talent, and enhance the public landscape. The project will see Saudi artists transform a 3,200-meter-long and 5-meter-wide walkway, with over 200 volunteers from Jeddah painting the promenade by the end of May, covering an area of 16,000 square meters. The refreshed ROSHN Waterfront is set to be unveiled in early June.

Context and Background

The ROSHN Waterfront, originally opened in 2017 and renamed in 2022 following ROSHN’s involvement, has become a beloved recreational spot for Jeddah’s residents and visitors. It features several kilometres of walkways, jogging tracks, and cycle corridors. The area’s transformation is part of ROSHN’s broader commitment to enhancing quality of life in Saudi cities, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. This revamp not only beautifies the space but also fosters a sense of community and cultural pride.

Key Details

The initiative is a collaboration between ROSHN, the “Lenobadir” volunteering initiative, and Jeddah Municipality’s Social Responsibility Charity. A competition was held for Saudi artists to submit concepts for the waterfront, with 38 talented painters and designers showcasing their ideas. The evaluation criteria focused on embodying ROSHN Group’s distinctive elements, highlighting quality of life, and capturing Jeddah’s vibrant atmosphere and unique identity. Ghada AlRumayan, ROSHN Group’s Chief Marketing Officer, stated, “ROSHN Waterfront has become a popular destination in Jeddah, and we wanted to improve the quality of life for all with our support for Saudi artists.” She added that the project will bring the spirit of Jeddah to life through the artwork created by hundreds of volunteers from the local community.

Implications and Impact

This revitalization project is expected to further boost the waterfront’s appeal, drawing even more visitors and enhancing community bonds. By involving local artists and volunteers, ROSHN is nurturing local talent and encouraging civic participation. The initiative also supports Saudi Arabia’s broader goals of increasing tourism and promoting cultural expression. The refreshed space will provide an even more enjoyable environment for walking, jogging, and cycling, contributing to healthier lifestyles and social interaction among Jeddah’s diverse population.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This project exemplifies Saudi Vision 2030’s Quality of Life Program, which aims to create vibrant, sustainable communities and improve the living standards of all citizens and residents. By investing in public spaces and supporting local artists, ROSHN is helping to build a more dynamic and culturally rich society, in line with the Kingdom’s long-term vision for a prosperous future. The ROSHN Waterfront revamp is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering community well-being and cultural heritage.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the ROSHN Waterfront revamp project?

A1. The ROSHN Waterfront revamp is an initiative titled “Renewing and Coloring Your Steps” that aims to beautify the walkway in Jeddah through artwork by Saudi artists and volunteers.

Q2. How long is the walkway being revamped?

A2. The walkway stretches 3,200 meters long and 5 meters wide, covering a total area of 16,000 square meters.

Q3. Who is organizing the revamp?

A3. The project is organized by ROSHN Group in collaboration with the “Lenobadir” volunteering initiative and Jeddah Municipality’s Social Responsibility Charity.

Q4. How many volunteers are participating?

A4. Over 200 volunteers from Jeddah are participating in painting the walkway.

Q5. When will the revamped waterfront be unveiled?

A5. The refreshed ROSHN Waterfront will be unveiled in early June.

Q6. What was the selection process for the artwork?

A6. ROSHN held a competition for Saudi artists to submit their concepts, with 38 artists participating. The ideas were evaluated based on specific criteria.

Q7. What criteria were used to evaluate the artists’ concepts?

A7. The evaluation focused on embodying ROSHN Group’s distinctive elements, highlighting quality of life, and capturing Jeddah’s vibrant atmosphere and unique identity.

Q8. Who is Ghada AlRumayan?

A8. Ghada AlRumayan is the Chief Marketing Officer of ROSHN Group.

Q9. What did Ghada AlRumayan say about the project?

A9. She stated that ROSHN Waterfront has become a popular destination and that the project aims to improve quality of life by supporting Saudi artists and bringing the spirit of Jeddah to life.

Q10. When was the ROSHN Waterfront originally opened?

A10. The area was opened in 2017 and was renamed the ROSHN Waterfront in 2022.

Q11. How many visitors does the waterfront attract annually?

A11. The ROSHN Waterfront attracts over 55 million visitors annually.

Q12. What amenities does the waterfront feature?

A12. It features several kilometres of walkways, jogging tracks, and cycle corridors.

Q13. How does this project support local talent?

A13. By holding a competition for Saudi artists and involving them in the revitalization, ROSHN is providing a platform for local artists to showcase their work and contribute to the community.

Q14. How does the project promote community engagement?

A14. The project encourages community involvement through volunteer participation and collaborative efforts to enhance a shared public space.

Q15. What is the significance of the project for Jeddah?

A15. The project enhances the city’s public landscape, boosts tourism, and fosters a sense of pride and ownership among residents.

Q16. How does the project align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A16. It aligns with the Quality of Life Program by improving public spaces, supporting arts and culture, and enhancing community well-being.

Q17. What is the role of Jeddah Municipality in this project?

A17. Jeddah Municipality’s Social Responsibility Charity is a collaborator, supporting the project’s community-focused objectives.

Q18. What is the “Lenobadir” volunteering initiative?

A18. “Lenobadir” is a volunteering initiative that collaborates on community projects, including the ROSHN Waterfront revamp.

Q19. How will the revamped waterfront benefit the environment?

A19. While not explicitly stated, improved walkways and cycle tracks encourage eco-friendly transportation and outdoor activities, contributing to a healthier environment.

Q20. What future plans does ROSHN have for similar projects?

A20. ROSHN continues to focus on enhancing quality of life through community-centric developments, in line with Vision 2030. Further initiatives are expected.

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