Saudi Arabia launches ARDARA and lifestyle destination AlWadi in Abha region

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has launched ARDARA with its flagship destination AlWadi in the Aseer region.

The aim is to position it as the first-of- its-kind urban lifestyle destination for local and international tourists.

AlWadi has been developed in line with the PIF’s strategy to develop distinctive experiences across the kingdom, in line with Vision 2030.

Highlights of ARDARA and AlWadi

The AlWadi destination, spanning 2.5 million square metres, will adopt architectural styles and character inspired by the heritage and landscape of the Aseer region.

The destination will adhere to global sustainability standards and promote dynamic lifestyles by dedicating over 30 per cent of the project’s area as green and open spaces, offering 16 kilometres of waterfront, 17 kilometres of walking and cycling tracks, as well as cultural activities and community gatherings. AlWadi will feature five districts, consisting of 2,000 residence options, ranging from luxury apartments to modern villas, a selection of premium hotel properties, commercial spaces and high-quality office areas.

ARDARA aims to provide investment and partnership opportunities for local and international investors in sectors such as hospitality, arts, culture, food and agriculture, retail and entertainment.

AlWadi is set to contribute more than SAR19bn to the kingdom’s non-oil GDP by the year 2030 and will create thousands of jobs for the area’s residents.

It also aligns with the objectives of the Aseer Development Strategy, ‘The Arabian Highland’, announced by the Crown Prince in 2021.

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