Green Urbanism: Saudi Arabia Rendezvous with 2034 FIFA World Cup

Ahmad El-Assasy November 1, 2023

2 minutes read

Green Urbanism: Saudi Arabia’s Rendezvous with 2034 FIFA World Cup

As the countdown for the 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia begins, the Kingdom is gearing up to showcase a new era of urban development. A plethora of infrastructure and greenery projects are being rolled out to not only accommodate the world’s premier football event but also to redefine urban living in the Kingdom. This article elucidates the major projects and initiatives that are set to change the facade of Saudi cities before the 2034 World Cup.

Table of Contents

Saudi Arabia Investment in Infrastructure:

Saudi Arabia has pledged a significant investment of 40 billion riyals ($10.6 billion) towards local infrastructure projects across 11 cities. This investment is part of a broader initiative where the Kingdom announced a trillion-dollar pipeline of infrastructure projects aimed at diversifying its economy beyond oil and aligning with its Vision 2030 to become a global hub for investment and logistics.

Major Projects Underway in Saudi Arabia:

Some of the mega projects include:

1. Neom:

A high-tech city with an investment of US$500 billion, embodying the futuristic vision of Saudi Arabia.

2. Riyadh Metro:

A mammoth urban transport project is expected to ferry 400,000 passengers daily using driverless trains.

3. Makkah Public Transport Programme:

A comprehensive transport network including a four-line metro and integrated bus networks.

4. Al Widyan:

A mixed-use city within a city, highlighting a sustainable urban living model in Saudi Arabia.

5. Jabal Omar:

A major development in Makkah comprising hotels and residential buildings to host thousands of guests annually.

6. Diriyah Gate Project:

A mixed-use cultural and historical heritage city with 18,500 units.

Saudi Arabia Green Initiatives:

Although the detailed greenery projects specific to the 2034 World Cup preparations are not outlined, the emphasis on sustainable urban living in projects like Neom and Al Widyan indicates a paradigm shift towards greener urban landscapes. The mixed-use developments and transport programs also hint at a concerted effort to reduce carbon emissions and promote eco-friendly living.

A Changed Urban Landscape:

The amalgamation of these projects and green initiatives is bound to alter the urban landscapes of Saudi cities drastically. The inclusion of vast green spaces, efficient transport systems, and sustainable urban living models are steps towards a modern, eco-friendly urban milieu.

The preparatory stride towards the 2034 FIFA World Cup is much more than just hosting a global sporting event. It’s about showcasing a modern, sustainable, and culturally rich Kingdom to the world. The Kingdom is not only building stadiums but is reshaping its cities to epitomize modern urbanism blended with rich cultural heritage.