Saudi Arabia?s King Salman has launched an ambitious programme of projects in Riyadh worth billions, which is expected to enhance the living standards of residents
The 1,281 development projects in the Saudi capital and surrounding towns will cost about US$22bn.
They aim to enhance crucial infrastructures, such as transportation and housing and improve amenities, the environment and education.
The programme includes 15 housing projects in Riyadh and its governorates, in line with the objectives of Vision 2030 to increase house ownership among citizens; the establishment of the largest Islamic museum in the capital; a huge environmental project for the lakes south of the capital covering an area of 315,000 sq m; sports cities; seven medical cities; 16 educational projects; quality entertainment facilities; the expansion of airports; and the development and upgrading of the road network.
The projects were announced in February by Prince Faisal bin Bandar, governor of Riyadh region, during an official inauguration event at Qasr Al-Hukm, in the presence of King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and other dignitaries. They are part of a wider programme of 2,830 projects planned for Riyadh at a total cost of US$90bn, which are expected to create tens of thousands of job opportunities for young men and women.
