JCDC inks MoU to design luxury cruise terminal for Jeddah Central project
The marina and cruise terminal are expected to provide Jeddah residents and visitors with new ways to experience the coastal areas
Jeddah Central Project (JCP) master developer Jeddah Central Development Company (JCDC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Cruise Saudi. The deal will see the companies design a new international luxury cruise terminal for the JCP.
Cruise Saudi is said to be a specialist in cruise ecosystem development and is wholly-owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). In addition to working together on the design of the cruise terminal, the two companies will also collaborate on the marina that is taking shape at the JCP.
The collaboration is billed as a major move that will contribute to transforming Jeddah’s coastline and is expected to help foster the growth and development of the Saudi marine tourism industry.
In February 2022, the JCDC inked a deal for land for Phase One of the $20.4bn Jeddah Central project.
“Jeddah’s proximity to the sea has greatly influenced its economic and cultural development over the years. JCDC’s plan is to develop a world-class marina that includes a luxury cruise destination, as a continuation of this rich maritime legacy. Our partnership with Cruise Saudi will help us accelerate our efforts as we work to diversify the Kingdom’s tourism and entertainment industries, which is a key PIF and Saudi Vision 2030 objective,” said JCDC CEO Engineer Ahmed bin Abdul Aziz Al Sulaim.
The marina and cruise terminal are expected to give Jeddah residents and visitors new ways to experience the coastal areas. Additionally, other beachside developments are underway, said JCDC.
The announcement is said to reflect the JCDC’s ambition to strengthen partnerships with leading national developers, and commitment to establishing Jeddah as one of the region’s superyacht and luxury cruise destinations.
In June, the JCDC awarded the masterplan design contract for the JCP to Dar Al-Handasah Consultants.
Cruise Saudi CEO Lars Clasen added, “This memorandum supports the efforts of Cruise Saudi in expanding beyond the scope of cruise services, and we look forward to working with JCDC. Together we will explore the myriad of opportunities the luxury cruise operations will enable within the Jeddah Central project, to provide the finest marine experience.”
He concluded, “This shall assist in both parties realising their aspirations, and reflect positively on the kingdom’s tourist experience.”
Later in June, the JCDC awarded the design contract for the Oceanarium and Coral Farm landmark to SOM, while in July, the master developer announced the design and engineering contracts for the stadium at JCP was won by GMP International and Khatib & Alami respectively.
