Firms Submit Bids for Najm Al-Din Al-Ayoubi Road Upgrade, Riyadh’s Main Gate to Growth
- Michael Ghobrial
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
In a season of significant transformation for Saudi Arabia, the Najm al-Din al-Ayoubi Road upgrade represents a pivotal initiative to enhance the infrastructure that connects Riyadh to Mecca and Jeddah. This bold project, part of a larger SAR 13 billion programme under Vision 2030, aims to rejuvenate the city's transport network and plays a critical role in enabling Riyadh to host the upcoming World Expo 2030.
A Crucial Link: The Importance of the Najm al-Din al-Ayoubi Road
The Najm al-Din al-Ayoubi Road serves as one of the primary access points to Riyadh, particularly for traffic flowing from the Mecca-Jeddah road. This route sees heavy use, especially during religious seasons, making its efficiency crucial for both everyday commuters and pilgrims traveling for Hajj and Umrah.
The current state of the road often leads to congestion, which not only affects travel times but also impacts local businesses and overall urban mobility. Upgrading this vital corridor will alleviate traffic bottlenecks and ultimately contribute to a smoother flow into the capital.
Project Overview
• Location: Najm Al-Din Al-Ayoubi Road, southwest Riyadh
• Scope: Road widening, new interchanges, bridges, underpasses, drainage and lighting
• Objectives: Cut congestion, boost connectivity, support safe and efficient movement for commuters and freight
• Impact: Makes the route safer, faster, and better equipped for the city's fast-growing population and urban expansion
Vision 2030: A Framework for Urban Development
Launched in 2016, Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 is a strategic framework designed to reduce the kingdom's dependency on oil and diversify its economy. It places a strong emphasis on improving urban environments and infrastructure in major cities. The Najm al-Din al-Ayoubi Road upgrade is indeed a testament to this transformative approach.
By investing in such large-scale projects, the Saudi government aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and ensure Riyadh is equipped to handle the influx of visitors expected for the World Expo 2030. This comprehensive urban mobility strategy includes new road construction, capacity enhancements, and the addition of crucial structures like bridges.
Delivery Partners & Key
Stakeholders
Client: Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC)
Government partners: Riyadh Municipality, Roads General Authority, Ministry of Transport
Bidders (prequalified): Leading Saudi and international contractors with proven civils experience
Consultants: Local engineering and transport-planning specialists
Funding: Supported within Saudi infrastructure PPP programmes
Stakeholders: Local businesses, neighbourhoods, city planners, logistics firms
A Focus on Sustainable Development
As part of the upgrade, planners are also paying keen attention to sustainable development practices. Each aspect of this project incorporates considerations for pedestrian and cyclist safety, as well as increasing green spaces and afforestation efforts along the upgraded route.
Incorporating these elements not only promotes environmental sustainability but also enriches the urban landscape. Picture lush greenery adjacent to roadways, making the commuting experience not just about transit but connecting people with nature. This holistic approach to urban planning aligns perfectly with global trends focused on creating integrated urban environments.
Construction Details
Main works: Resurfacing, road widening (up to six lanes), bridge and flyover construction, roundabout upgrades, intersection redesign
Utility upgrades: Water, power, telecoms relocated for future growth
Pedestrian and bike facilities: New protected crossings, cycle tracks, green buffers
Traffic management: Smart lighting, ITS traffic flow systems, modern signage for daily safety and emergency response
Timeline
Tender process: Bids submitted September 2025
Award and mobilisation: Late 2025
Main works: 2026-2028
Phased opening: Sections may open as work progresses
Completion: 2028, subject to weather and site logistics
Strategic Importance
Upgrading Najm Al-Din Al-Ayoubi Road is essential for Riyadh as it prepares for continued population growth and major business investment. A smoother, safer, and more modern road unlocks new development sites, improves quality of life, and gives the city a better edge in attracting companies and talent. The project also fits into a bigger plan for Saudi infrastructure and supports long-term market analysis and economic goals.
