The 11km long and 100m wide canal will be the first canal constructed in Saudi Arabia, catering to the transportation and recreational needs of its citizens.
A new development project funded by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia includes an 11km artificial canal, Alarabiya News reported on August 31. The new canal is part of the MARAFY urban development project located north of the capital city, Jeddah, according to the real estate developer Roshn.
The canal will surround the MARAFY urban area. (Image: Roshn).
Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil producer, is seeking to diversify its economy. The country’s ambitious megaprojects such as NEOM and the LINE do not adhere to current construction design standards. Situated in a barren region, Saudi Arabia has yet to construct any canals. Their first canal will be created through the expansion of the Obhur Creek. However, the project is not only aesthetic but also aims to facilitate transportation, connecting homes and communities in the area. Upon completion, the MARAFY project could accommodate approximately 130,000 residents.
With the canal, MARAFY can stand alongside major cities like Chicago, Stockholm, Hamburg, and London, where waterfront areas serve as relaxation and entertainment spots for residents. The MARAFY project will include several districts, each featuring unique characteristics highlighted by local cultural heritage and architecture. The districts and the city of Jeddah will be linked to a multimodal transport system that includes buses, water taxis, metro stations, and a canal connecting to King Abdulaziz International Airport.
“MARAFY will enhance the quality of life and have a significant impact on Jeddah,” said David Grover, CEO of Roshn. “This is one of the iconic projects aimed at creating a vibrant community and a thriving economy.”
Saudi Arabia hopes that these new constructions will attract many residents and tourists from around the world. They view their geographical location as an advantage in becoming a hub of the global economy.
