ROSHN Breaks Ground on ALMANAR in Makkah

ROSHN Group, Saudi Arabia’s leading multi-asset class real estate developer and a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, has officially broken ground on ALMANAR, its first fully integrated residential community in Makkah, under the patronage of Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Governor of Makkah Region Prince Khalid Al-Faisal. The ceremony, held at the project site and reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), marks a significant step in the Kingdom’s efforts to expand high-quality urban development in its holiest city. The event was attended by Mayor of Makkah Musad Aldaood, CEO of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites Eng. Saleh Al-Rasheed, CEO of the General Real Estate Authority Eng. Abdullah Al-Hammad, and Acting CEO of ROSHN Group Dr. Khalid Johar, alongside other prominent figures from the public and private sectors.

Attendees toured the show villas and explored the diverse residential typologies that ALMANAR will offer, underscoring the project’s role in ROSHN’s broader mission to transform urban development and enhance quality of life across the Kingdom. But what does this groundbreaking really signal for Makkah and for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 ambitions? The ALMANAR project, spanning 21 million square meters and comprising over 33,000 residential units, is designed to be people-centric, prioritizing residents’ needs with sustainable and vibrant living spaces integrated with nature and expansive green areas. It promises seamless access to essential facilities, including schools, mosques, shopping centers, and healthcare services, while vibrant streets, open spaces, and recreational areas aim to foster social connections and a deep sense of belonging.

Context and Background

Why has ROSHN chosen Makkah for its next landmark community? Makkah holds a unique place in the Islamic world as the site of Al-Masjid Al-Haram, drawing millions of pilgrims annually and serving as a spiritual anchor for over a billion Muslims. The city’s population continues to grow, and demand for modern housing and infrastructure has risen accordingly. ROSHN, established in 2020 as a PIF-backed national developer, has been tasked with delivering integrated communities that meet international standards while respecting local heritage. ALMANAR is its first project in the Holy City, following successful launches in Riyadh, Jeddah, and other regions.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held under the patronage of Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, reflects the high-level attention given to urban development in Makkah. The presence of senior officials such as Mayor Musad Aldaood, Eng. Saleh Al-Rasheed of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites, and Eng. Abdullah Al-Hammad of the General Real Estate Authority underscores the collaborative approach between government entities and the private sector. This alignment is central to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy, improve public services, and raise the quality of life for citizens and residents alike.

ROSHN’s portfolio is designed to address a range of housing needs, from affordable options to premium residences, and ALMANAR will contribute significantly to the Kingdom’s target of increasing homeownership rates. The project’s scale—21 million square meters—makes it one of the largest residential developments in the region, and its location within the boundaries of Al-Masjid Al-Haram positions it as a strategically important addition to Makkah’s urban fabric. How will this development balance the city’s spiritual significance with the demands of modern living? The answer lies in its design philosophy, which draws inspiration from traditional architecture while incorporating contemporary materials and sustainable practices.

Key Details of the ALMANAR Community

What exactly will ALMANAR offer to future residents and visitors? The community is planned to include more than 33,000 residential units, ranging from apartments to villas, catering to different family sizes and lifestyles. The master plan emphasizes walkability, green spaces, and community facilities. Schools, mosques, shopping centers, and healthcare services will be integrated within the neighborhood, reducing the need for long commutes and fostering a self-sufficient environment. The show villas unveiled at the ceremony gave attendees a glimpse of the architectural quality and attention to detail that ROSHN intends to deliver.

Strategically, ALMANAR is located just 20 minutes from Al-Masjid Al-Haram, less than an hour from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, and two minutes from Makkah Gate. This connectivity is expected to benefit both residents and the millions of pilgrims who visit the city each year. The design incorporates wide streets, open spaces, and recreational areas that encourage social interaction and a sense of community. ROSHN has stated that the project will prioritize sustainability, with energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures, and extensive landscaping that integrates with the natural environment.

Acting CEO of ROSHN Group Dr. Khalid Johar commented: “The ALMANAR community in Makkah represents a major milestone in ROSHN’s journey, embodying our ambitious vision to develop integrated and sustainable destinations and communities while honoring the privilege of contributing to the Holy City. At ROSHN, we are proud to introduce a community that meets the aspirations of Makkah’s residents and its visitors, offering a harmonious blend of tranquility and modern living near Al-Masjid Al-Haram while enriching the overall quality of life in this blessed city.” His words highlight the dual focus on modernity and reverence for Makkah’s spiritual status. How will ROSHN ensure that the development respects the sanctity of the Holy City while providing all the amenities of contemporary life? The company’s track record in other cities suggests a careful approach to planning and community engagement.

International and Regional Impact

What does ALMANAR mean for the broader region and for international observers? Makkah is not only a religious destination but also a growing urban center that welcomes millions of international visitors annually. The development of high-quality residential communities like ALMANAR can enhance the city’s capacity to host pilgrims and residents, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s efforts to improve the pilgrimage experience under Vision 2030. The project also signals to global investors that the Kingdom’s real estate sector is vibrant and open to partnerships, particularly in strategic locations.

Regionally, ALMANAR is part of a wave of giga-projects and urban developments across Saudi Arabia, from NEOM in the northwest to the Red Sea Project on the west coast. These initiatives are reshaping the Kingdom’s economic landscape and creating new opportunities for tourism, hospitality, and services. For Makkah, the arrival of a ROSHN community could spur further investment in infrastructure, retail, and healthcare, benefiting local businesses and residents. International audiences may view ALMANAR as a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s modernization drive, demonstrating that the country can undertake large-scale, complex projects while honoring its cultural and religious heritage.

Economic and Strategic Significance

Why is ALMANAR economically significant for Saudi Arabia? The construction and eventual occupation of 33,000 residential units will generate demand for materials, labor, and professional services, creating jobs and stimulating local supply chains. ROSHN, as a PIF company, is expected to contribute to the Fund’s objective of growing non-oil GDP and diversifying revenue streams. The project also aligns with the government’s goal of increasing homeownership among Saudi citizens, a key indicator of social stability and economic well-being.

Strategically, ALMANAR strengthens Makkah’s position as a year-round destination, not just for Hajj and Umrah but also for business and leisure. By offering modern housing and amenities, the community can attract professionals and families who wish to live near the Holy City, thereby supporting the local economy beyond the pilgrimage seasons. The proximity to Jeddah and the Haramain High-Speed Railway further enhances connectivity, making Makkah an increasingly attractive place to live and work. How will this project influence future developments in the city? It sets a benchmark for quality and sustainability that other developers may follow, raising the overall standard of urban living in the region.

Vision 2030 Alignment

How does ALMANAR fit into Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030? The Vision, launched in 2016, aims to transform the Kingdom into a diversified, innovation-driven economy with a high quality of life for all citizens. Housing is a core component, with targets to increase homeownership and improve urban infrastructure. ROSHN was created precisely to accelerate these goals by developing integrated communities that offer more than just homes—they provide schools, healthcare, recreation, and green spaces, all designed to foster community cohesion and well-being.

ALMANAR exemplifies several Vision 2030 themes: sustainability, quality of life, and economic diversification. Its focus on green areas and sustainable design supports environmental goals, while its mixed-use nature encourages local commerce and social interaction. The project also reflects the Vision’s emphasis on preserving cultural heritage, as its architecture draws from traditional Makkah styles. By contributing to the Holy City’s development, ROSHN is helping to ensure that Makkah remains a welcoming and vibrant place for residents and pilgrims alike, now and for generations to come. As Saudi Arabia continues its journey of transformation, projects like ALMANAR will be vital in turning Vision 2030’s aspirations into reality.

20 Questions

Q1. What is ALMANAR and who is developing it?

A1. ALMANAR is a fully integrated residential community in Makkah developed by ROSHN Group, Saudi Arabia’s leading multi-asset class real estate developer and a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company.

Q2. Where is ALMANAR located?

A2. ALMANAR is strategically located within the boundaries of Al-Masjid Al-Haram, just 20 minutes from the Holy Mosque, less than an hour from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, and two minutes from Makkah Gate.

Q3. How large is the ALMANAR project?

A3. The community spans 21 million square meters and includes over 33,000 residential units, making it one of the largest residential developments in the region.

Q4. Who attended the groundbreaking ceremony?

A4. The ceremony was attended by Mayor of Makkah Musad Aldaood, CEO of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites Eng. Saleh Al-Rasheed, CEO of the General Real Estate Authority Eng. Abdullah Al-Hammad, and Acting CEO of ROSHN Group Dr. Khalid Johar.

Q5. What did Dr. Khalid Johar say about the project?

A5. Dr. Khalid Johar stated that ALMANAR represents a major milestone in ROSHN’s journey, embodying the vision to develop integrated and sustainable communities while honoring the privilege of contributing to the Holy City.

Q6. What amenities will ALMANAR offer?

A6. The community will feature schools, mosques, shopping centers, healthcare services, vibrant streets, open spaces, and recreational areas designed to foster social connections and community bonds.

Q7. How does ALMANAR reflect Saudi Vision 2030?

A7. ALMANAR aligns with Vision 2030 by enhancing quality of life, promoting sustainable urban development, increasing homeownership, and supporting economic diversification through PIF-backed projects.

Q8. What is the significance of ALMANAR’s location in Makkah?

A8. Its location near Al-Masjid Al-Haram makes it ideal for residents and pilgrims, offering easy access to the Holy Mosque while providing modern living amenities in a spiritually significant city.

Q9. How does ALMANAR incorporate sustainability?

A9. The project prioritizes sustainable design with expansive green areas, energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures, and landscaping that integrates with the natural environment.

Q10. What architectural style does ALMANAR use?

A10. ALMANAR’s design draws inspiration from the region’s traditional architecture while incorporating modern materials, creating a distinctive destination that respects local heritage.

Q11. How will ALMANAR benefit the local economy?

A11. The construction and occupation of 33,000 units will create jobs, stimulate local supply chains, and attract investment in retail, healthcare, and services, boosting Makkah’s economy beyond pilgrimage seasons.

Q12. What is ROSHN Group’s role in Saudi Arabia?

A12. ROSHN Group is a PIF-owned national developer tasked with delivering integrated, high-quality communities across the Kingdom, supporting Vision 2030 goals for housing and urban development.

Q13. How does ALMANAR improve quality of life?

A13. By offering modern housing, green spaces, and essential facilities within a walkable community, ALMANAR enhances residents’ well-being, fosters social interaction, and provides a tranquil yet connected lifestyle.

Q14. What is the expected timeline for ALMANAR’s completion?

A14. While specific completion dates have not been announced, the groundbreaking marks the start of construction, with units expected to be delivered in phases over the coming years.

Q15. How does ALMANAR support pilgrimage infrastructure?

A15. ALMANAR adds high-quality residential capacity near the Holy Mosque, which can accommodate residents and visitors, indirectly supporting the pilgrimage experience by easing housing demand.

Q16. What makes ALMANAR different from other developments in Makkah?

A16. ALMANAR is ROSHN’s first fully integrated community in Makkah, combining scale, sustainability, and modern amenities while respecting the city’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Q17. How does ALMANAR contribute to homeownership goals?

A17. By providing over 33,000 residential units of various typologies, ALMANAR helps increase homeownership rates among Saudi citizens, a key Vision 2030 target.

Q18. What transportation links serve ALMANAR?

A18. ALMANAR is two minutes from Makkah Gate, 20 minutes from Al-Masjid Al-Haram, and less than an hour from Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport, with access to the Haramain High-Speed Railway.

Q19. How does ALMANAR reflect Saudi Arabia’s modernization?

A19. ALMANAR showcases the Kingdom’s ability to undertake large-scale, sustainable urban projects that blend modern design with cultural sensitivity, signaling progress under Vision 2030.

Q20. What is the long-term vision for ALMANAR?

A20. ALMANAR aims to become a vibrant, self-sufficient community that enhances Makkah’s urban landscape, supports economic growth, and provides a high quality of life for residents and visitors for generations.

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