#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #Jacobs #AECOM #The Mukaab

Redefining Urban Experience in Riyadh: The Mukaab

In a landmark initiative under Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, Jacobs, in collaboration with AECOM, has officially embarked on the design journey for The Mukaab, a monumental project located in Riyadh's New Murabba development. The Mukaab is poised to become an iconic centerpiece that combines cutting-edge technology and cultural inspiration, reshaping the way urban life is experienced in this vibrant city.

Covering an impressive 247 acres (100 hectares), The Mukaab aims to anchor a new modern downtown complex that gets integrated with residential, retail, hospitality, and cultural spaces, all while honoring the architectural heritage from Najdi tradition. This innovative project is expected to redefine urban living aesthetics, offering a blend of traditional values and futuristic advancements.

A Visionary Design Process

The project design aims to seamlessly integrate various elements essential for a thriving urban center. Jacobs and AECOM's role extends beyond mere architectural outlines; they are responsible for creating comprehensive design solutions that include infrastructure, road tunnels, the Mukaab Core, and surrounding podium environments. Jacobs is pivotal in this partnership, as it leverages years of expertise to deliver sustainable outcomes while facilitating human-centered experiences.

Jacobs’ Chief Executive Officer, Bob Pragada, shared his excitement about the project, noting, "Contributing to The Mukaab represents an extraordinary opportunity to redefine the urban experience at the heart of Riyadh." He emphasized the focus on innovation and technology as crucial elements to create places that resonate with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 ambitions. Along with creating aesthetically pleasing structures, the design emphasizes sustainability—an essential aspect of modern urban development.

Cultural Identity Meets Modern Technology

The Mukaab epitomizes a daring vision for urban design, intertwining Saudi cultural identity with advanced technologies and sustainable philosophies. Zaher Abu Hijleh, Senior Vice President at Jacobs Middle East, remarked that the project not only marks an architectural endeavor but also requires intensive collaboration to weave together both local and international expertise. The concept is to craft an immersive environment that elevates daily life and fosters community interactions in Riyadh's ever-expanding urban fabric.

Moreover, the development looks to incorporate digital and immersive experiences, setting a new standard for future urban complexes. This creates an opportunity for global visitors and residents alike to interact with the city in novel ways, making each visit to The Mukaab a unique experience, rich with the vibrancy of culture blended with modernity.

Jacobs’ Pioneering Role in Urban Development

Jacobs continues to play a significant role in transforming urban landscapes across the Middle East. Alongside The Mukaab, the company is involved in colossal projects such as Diriyah's Wadi Safar and King Salman International Airport, contributing substantially towards making Saudi Vision 2030 a reality. Their approach focuses not only on engineering and design but also on providing solutions that address and contend with the complex challenges of sustainable urban development.

The ambition behind projects like The Mukaab stretches far beyond architecture; it aims to enhance the quality of life for residents through thoughtfully designed urban spaces. With revenues peaking at around $12 billion annually and a workforce of nearly 45,000, Jacobs is committed to creating a well-connected and sustainable world through comprehensive management strategies across multiple sectors like advanced manufacturing, environmental solutions, urban planning, and infrastructure development.

Conclusion

As Jacobs and AECOM set forth on this transformative journey, The Mukaab stands as a testament to a new era in urban design, integrating sustainability, culture, and cutting-edge technology. It reflects a bold step into the future of living and working in Riyadh, aiming not just to house people but to enrich their lives through thoughtful, intentional urban planning. The collaboration marks a pivotal shift in how communities can thrive within dynamic environments that honor both tradition and innovation, turning The Mukaab into an architectural and cultural landmark.

For further updates on this exciting project, visit Jacobs' official website.