JCDC awards US $3.2bn in contracts
The contracts will support the development of the Jeddah Central project’s key architectural landmarks and infrastructure
Over US $3.2bn in contracts have been awarded by the Jeddah Central Development Company (JCDC) for the construction of three major architectural landmarks (a stadium, an opera house and oceanarium). The contracts also support the development of infrastructure and utilities, as part of Phase One of the JCDC’s Jeddah Central project.
The JCDC said two of the contracts were snapped up by Modern Building Leaders Company for the construction of the Jeddah Central Destination Oceanarium and the Opera House. The oceanarium is billed as a window to the wonders of the Red Sea, and aims to provide an unparalleled experience to visitors, while advocating for marine biodiversity protection.
The Opera House, through its three major halls with international specifications, will be a platform for creativity and inspiration to position Jeddah as a cultural hub. According to JCDC, the contract for the stadium was clinched by a consortium of the Saudi unit of China Railway Construction Corporation and Sama Construction for Contracting.
The stadium, which is said to be designed to unique contemporary architecture and international specs, will have a capacity to accommodate 45,000 fans. The FIFA compliant facility will be hosting major local and international games in the coming years.
JCDC also said it has signed China Harbour Engineering Arabia for the development of infrastructure and utilities works in the first phase. The move is aimed at placing the city of Jeddah on the global tourism map through reviving its heritage and celebrating its contemporary culture, it added.
Located on an area of 5.7m sqm in the centre of Jeddah, the Jeddah Central Project aims to become a world destination boasting a world-class marina and beach resorts, along with a wide range of luxurious local and international hotels, restaurants, and cafes, and diverse shopping options.
According to JCDC, its operational activities will also open the door for the local private sector to participate in developing and operating promising economic sectors, such as tourism, sports, culture, and entertainment, alongside other sectors that include building and developing modern residential areas with more than 25,000 housing units and various hotel projects providing more than 6,500 rooms.
The development comprises several key premium attractions including the Central District; Marina District; Waterfront District; Sports Park District; Cultural and creativity district; Wellness District.
