This SR six billion mixed-use project is set to energise Jeddah and will serve as the centre of the city’s new downtown. Cityscape magazine reveals more.
The creators of Jeddah Gate say it will offer luxury at affordable levels and will appeal to customers who are looking for a world-class residential development offering various lifestyle amenities. The modern residential complex is being developed by Emaar Middle East (EME) – a subsidiary of global property developer Emaar Properties PJSC – and it’s set to include 6,000 residential units, 75,000 sq metres retail space and Abraj Al Hilal, three high-rise residential buildings. The multi-billion dollar project won the “best residential project (future)” and “best urban design and master planning” at Cityscape Jeddah last year. According to engineer Ahmed Al Kulli, general manager, Emaar Middle East, the response to the development has so far been strong from investors and particularly end-users who Ahmed Al Kulli says consider Jeddah Gate as an ‘affordable and quality residential offering.’
EME is a joint venture between Emaar Properties and Al Oula Real Estate Development Company. Recently EME, has embarked on a number of high value projects in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The rapid growth of the real estate sector has allowed the company to expand its portfolio into multiple business activities of diversified nature from master planning and development of mixed-use developments, to property investment and facilities management and maintenance.
Ahmed Al Kulli says Jeddah Gate will ‘energise the city’ by creating a new downtown destination that offers all lifestyle amenities including hotels, community centres, commercial offices and retail centres.
“It will create new jobs for Saudis and also support ancillary industries in all core growth sectors – from education to retail, trade, and hospitality. It will also contribute to addressing the demand for world-class homes in the city contributing to creating a sustainable and prosperous living environment for Jeddah.”
In close proximity to the railroad link between Jeddah and the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madina, Jeddah Gate features several residential units; office space and 75,000 sq m of gross leasable area for retailers.
The community includes schools, mosques, community centres, outdoor plazas, pedestrian walkways, gardens and waterscapes, swimming pools, fitness centers, children’s play areas, day care centers and recreational areas. Top-end retailers and several food and beverage outlets will function in close proximity to the towers.
This master-plan development will have two main sites. The first will be located along King Abdullah Road and has an area of 413,0000 sq m. The second is located along Abdullah Al Suleiman Street and spread over 140,000 sq m. It is in close proximity to the main railroad linking the two Holy Cities. The project will have residential and serviced apartments, office space and leasable areas for retailers. Envisaged as a ‘Smart City’ it will have an advanced telecom infrastructure that uses modern fibre optics technology. The project’s overall architectural philosophy conforms to Arabesque traditions while blending most-modern facilities to ensure a unique, relaxed lifestyle. The project is crossed by a boulevard which connects the existing part of Jeddah.
Ahmed Al Kulli says: “Emaar Middle East has launched the sale of Abraj Al Hilal, a cluster of three high-rise residential towers within Jeddah Gate, in Saudi Arabia to strong response from customers, and the next cluster of three residential towers is currently under design.
“The first homes in Jeddah Gate will be handed over to customers in 2011. Additionally three office buildings are also being undertaken, which will complement the initial phase of the Jeddah Gate development.”
Part of the vision of Jeddah Municipality is to develop the Old Airport area in the centre of Jeddah, Jeddah Gate offers community living marked by local heritage and is strategically located close to the Jeddah business centre. It is only 40 minutes from the Holy City of Makkah by car, and will be even more accessible once the high-speed train service is completed in 2013. Lifestyle amenities include swimming pools for men and women, health club, squash courts, and a common podium with a roof garden. The first few residential towers are currently in final stages of completion, and will be handed over to customers in the coming months.
Al Khobar Lakes is a luxury lakefront development featuring picturesque and serene water bodies. It is one of the premier lakefront developments and the largest integrated community in Eastern Province. The Al Nada and Al Ghadeer residential villages have been launched to overwhelming home buyer and investor response. The first batch of villas is nearing completion and will be handed over shortly to customers. The community offers the superior location advantage of being near to three key cities in the Eastern Province, only 30 minutes away from the airport and close proximity to King Fahd causeway which leads to Bahrain. Away from the bustle of the city, Al Khobar Lakes offer a safe and secure lifestyle environment with abundant greenery and lifestyle amenities such as community centres, a health club and a large retail centre.
In Saudi Arabia, Emaar Middle East is also developing Emaar Residences at the Fairmont Makkah, located directly on the Haram Plaza. The serviced residences are offered on a leasehold basis and range in size from 40 sq m for a thoughtfully designed studio to 160 sq m for a comfortable three-bedroom residence.