JCDC awards masterplan design contract for $20bn Jeddah Central Project
The project will be implemented in a 5.7mn sqm strategic area in central Jeddah and will feature a 9.5km shoreline
Dar Al-Handasah Consultants has been awarded a contract by the Jeddah Central Development Company (JCDC) for the design of the master plan for the first phase of the $20bn Jeddah Central Project (JCP). Public Investment Fund (PIF) owned JCDC said Dar Al Handasah will be responsible for the design and technical consultation, which will pave the way for the construction work to commence.
JCDC said the contract also stipulates that Dar Al Handasah will provide the designs of the masterplan including all four main architectural landmarks and the development of assets on both the horizontal and vertical levels.
The design process will be led by local and international experts from Jeddah, in line with the company’s comprehensive strategy that aims to create a global destination at the heart of Jeddah city, said a statement from JCDC. Upon completion, the Jeddah Central Project will start receiving Jeddah’s residents, together with visitors from within the Kingdom and abroad.
The first phase of the project is expected to include three main architectural landmarks; an Opera House, Stadium, and Oceanarium and Coral Farms, said Engineer Ahmed bin Abdul Aziz Al Sulaim, the CEO of Jeddah Central Development Company, after signing the deal with Said Alhayek, Founding Partner of Dar Al Handasah.
On its collaboration with Dar Al Handasah, Al Sulaim said the Saudi group will be providing the design and technical consultation for this mega development. The project will be implemented in a 5.7mn sqm strategic area in central Jeddah and features a waterfront location with 9.5km of shoreline.
“It will boast a world-class marina to accommodate local and international yachts in addition to 2.1km of sandy beaches. The project will contribute to the development of quality projects in promising sectors such as tourism, sports, culture, entertainment, commercial, and residential. It is set to boost the standard of living for residents by providing global entertainment options and generating more job opportunities. Its contemporary designs draw inspiration from Jeddah’s authentic cultural identity, highlighting the city’s traditional architecture with modern urban design elements,” Al Sulaim explained.
He concluded, “JCDC’s aim is to develop high-quality projects in vital sectors, while enhancing the cultural and social identity of the city of Jeddah.”
In December 2021, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud first outlined the main features of the Jeddah Central Project. In February, JCP CEO said 85% of the company’s staff are Saudis and, in April, JCDC signed a land deal for Phase One of the project.
