RCU reveals design for first neighbourhood in AlUla

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) has revealed a design for its first model neighbourhood, which has been created as part of efforts to sustainably develop AlUla County for residents.

The AlUla region in north-west Saudi Arabia is known for its natural and cultural significance and by officially launching designs for homes in the neighbourhood complex, RCU seeks to achieve comprehensive sustainable development within the framework of AlUla County’s urban development ambitions, a statement said.

As part of this vision, RCU will provide more than 700 units to create a destination for residents and visitors in a harmonious environment that ‘connects people with nature and heritage while supplying the vital services and facilities of daily life’, it added.

Moataz Kurdi, Chief of County Operations, RCU, said: "Making AlUla a great place to live, work, and do business is at the core of RCU's Urban Development Plan for sustainable growth, which oversees the construction of green spaces, landscaped areas, retail zones as well as schools, medical centres and family homes that benefit the whole community. 

“Lush green spaces and places to exercise and play are a key part of our Urban Development Plan as we transform AlUla, enhance its liveability and help to connect residents and visitors with the stunning natural surroundings,” he continued.

The designs for the new, integrated, model neighbourhood reflect the surrounding natural and cultural environment and creates a community lifestyle through the use of available spaces between buildings, providing pedestrian paths, creating public areas, and increasing green spaces across interconnected sites, Kurdi explained.

Building in line with the Kingdom’s Vision

RCU said property owners who obtain building permits can access the AlUla Design Studio, which provides a range of new community services that will have a fundamental role in the urban development scheme. The studio will provide models of architectural designs, enabling residents to choose the most appropriate for them as they build their properties in line with AlUla’s history, heritage, and aesthetics.

The commission pointed out that it continues to achieve its vision for AlUla in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. Comprehensive sustainable development in a unique cultural and natural environment is being promoted, with the aim of transforming the region into a leading global destination as well as a great place to live and work.

In recent weeks, RCU said that it has started to receive applications for building permits, as part of its ongoing sustainable urban development scheme in AlUla’s Sadr and AlUla Central. 

To date, the scheme is active in AlMahash and AlManshiah – two key visitor hubs in AlUla.