HRH the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz has officially unveiled ARDARA, a pioneering initiative set to transform the Aseer region into a vibrant urban lifestyle destination. Anchored by its flagship project, “AlWadi,” ARDARA aspires to redefine international tourism experiences.
Financed by the Public Investment Fund, “AlWadi” will be an expansive 2.5 million sq m destination inspired by the rich heritage and singular character of the Aseer region. The vision for AlWadi marries modernity with tradition while adhering to global sustainability standards.
The project is a testament to a commitment to green living, with over 30% of the area dedicated to lush green spaces, a sprawling 16 km of waterfront, and 17 km of walking and cycling tracks. Moreover, AlWadi will pulse with cultural activities and community gatherings, fostering a dynamic lifestyle for its visitors.
AlWadi is designed as a multifaceted destination, featuring five distinct districts, each offering a unique experience. The development includes an array of residential options, spanning from luxury apartments to modern villas, providing a home for diverse demographics. High-end hotels, commercial spaces, and premium office areas are seamlessly integrated into the region’s landscape, preserving its identity and historical legacy.
ARDARA aims to be an economic powerhouse, opening doors to both local and international investors in diverse sectors, including hospitality, arts, culture, food and agriculture, retail, and entertainment. The initiative is set to propel the economic diversification drive of the Kingdom and bolster promising economic sectors.
The launch of ARDARA aligns with PIF’s strategy, aimed at supporting promising economic sectors and diversifying income sources within the Kingdom. AlWadi, as the flagship project, is projected to contribute more than 19 billion Saudi riyals to the Kingdom’s non-oil GDP by 2030, underscoring its significance in driving economic growth. Moreover, the development of AlWadi is poised to create thousands of jobs, providing employment opportunities to the region’s residents and empowering the local workforce.
AlWadi is an integral part of the Aseer Development Strategy, known as “The Arabian Highland,” which was introduced by the Crown Prince in 2021. This strategy aims to unlock the full potential of the Aseer region, enhancing its economic, cultural, and social fabric.
ARDARA and AlWadi represent a major step towards achieving these goals, breathing life into the aspirations of Vision 2030.
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