Saudi Arabia's NHC Launches $2bn Riyadh Al Ruba Project

In a significant stride towards advancing its housing infrastructure, the National Housing Company (NHC) has unveiled the Al Ruba project in east Riyadh. Valued at $2.1 billion (7.8 billion SAR), this initiative covers an impressive 5.7 million square metres and is set to provide over 9,000 residential units, along with 800,000 square metres of green space. Announced in August 2025, the Al Ruba project aligns seamlessly with Saudi Vision 2030 and reinforces the NHC's commitment to enhancing the nation's living standards. With the CEO of NHC, Mohammed Al-Batti, at the helm, the Riyadh portfolio now boasts a staggering SAR 146 billion ($39 billion).

Overview of the Al Ruba Project

The Al Ruba project is designed not only to be a sustainable living environment but also a community-driven development. The incorporation of green spaces underscores the project's innovative approach to urban planning. Emphasising eco-friendliness, these green spaces will facilitate an interactive environment for residents, fostering a sense of community while promoting healthy lifestyles.

Concept: A view of the Al Ruba community development showcasing its expansive green spaces.

The 9,000 residential units will cater to a diverse demographic, including families and young professionals, enhancing Riyadh's housing market. The mix of units, ranging from apartments to villas, ensures that various needs are met, positioning Al Ruba as a desirable area for both living and investment.

Strategic Importance of the Location

One of the most attractive aspects of the Al Ruba project is its prime location in east Riyadh, strategically positioned to facilitate easy access to major transportation links and key urban facilities. This factor alone makes it an attractive proposition for investors and contractors.

With construction professionals constantly on the lookout for lucrative opportunities, Al Ruba’s alignment with city development plans places it at the forefront of future urban expansion. The location is expected to witness increased demand, thereby enhancing property values over time.

Aerial view of Riyadh showing potential growth areas near Al Ruba project.

Moreover, the project's proximity to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and shopping centres aligns perfectly with the lifestyle needs of future residents, ensuring that essential services are never too far away.

Supporting Saudi Vision 2030

The Al Ruba project is not just a momentary addition to the Riyadh landscape; it plays a crucial role in supporting Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and improve the quality of life for all citizens. By providing modern housing solutions, the NHC enhances its target of achieving 70% homeownership by 2030.

Through the Al Ruba initiative, construction professionals and investors have a unique opportunity to engage in a project that is not only financially promising but also socially impactful. The combination of high-quality residential units and green space reflects a commitment to sustainable development, a key pillar of the Saudi Vision.

Artistic expression: View of landscaped areas within the Al Ruba project promoting sustainable living.

As we advance towards an era of increased urbanisation, incorporating these fundamentals into housing projects will be critical in meeting the growing demand for contemporary living.

Opportunities for Contractors and Consultants

For contractors and consultants, the Al Ruba project represents a significant opportunity to participate in a high-value project that showcases state-of-the-art construction methods and materials. With a budget of $2.1 billion earmarked for this undertaking, the project is set to generate various contracts across procurement, construction, and design sectors, thereby creating thousands of job opportunities.

Working within such a sizeable framework allows professionals to refine their skills, adopt innovative practices, and establish long-term relationships within the industry. The project will require a diverse range of expertise, including structural engineers, landscape designers, and sustainability consultants, thereby building a collaborative environment for success.

Importance of Green Space in Urban Developments

The emphasis on 800,000 square metres of green space in the Al Ruba project enhances its appeal. Urban developments are increasingly being favoured for their ability to integrate nature into living environments. This not only improves aesthetics but also promotes environmental sustainability.

From a health perspective, green spaces have been proven to reduce stress and enhance the psychological well-being of residents. Landscape architects and urban planners are encouraged to prioritise such considerations in projects, as they directly impact the desirability and overall success of residential developments.

The Future Outlook for Al Ruba and Its Residents

As the Al Ruba project progresses, it is anticipated that it will set a benchmark for future housing projects in Saudi Arabia. By incorporating elements that not only focus on modern living but also sustainability, NHC is leading the change in how housing developments are approached.

The successful launch of the Al Ruba project reflects the NHC's commitment to transforming the architectural landscape of Riyadh and meeting the growing housing needs of its population. For construction professionals, investors, and consultants, this means exciting times ahead as new opportunities unfold.

In closing, informed decision-making backed by data and a solid understanding of the project's implications will be vital for professionals looking to engage with the Al Ruba project. Not only does this initiative represent a collective vision for improved living standards in Saudi Arabia, but it also highlights the potential for significant professional growth within the realm of construction and consultancy.

By keeping abreast of industry developments and valuing sustainable practices, stakeholders can effectively position themselves to take advantage of what promises to be a transformative addition to Riyadh's urban fabric.

In Summary

Developer & Delivery partner

• National Housing Company (NHC) – acting as master developer and EPC employer.

Key stakeholders

• Ministry of Municipal, Rural Affairs & Housing – policy oversight and land allocation.

• Network of local & international co-developers and contractors to be selected through NHC’s partnership programme (names pending).

Project scope

• Capital investment: $2.1 billion (SAR7.8 billion).

• Site area: 5.7 million m² east of Riyadh.

• Product mix: 9,000+ housing units (villas, townhouses, apartments) arranged in walkable neighbourhood clusters.

• Public realm: 800,000 m² of parks & landscaped green corridors, community centres, schools and retail streets.

• Supports Vision 2030 goal of lifting Saudi home-ownership to 70%.

Where to watch for job openings

• LinkedIn Jobs – search “NHC Al-Ruba” or “National Housing Company”, location = Riyadh.

• GulfTalent – filter “Real Estate/Construction”, location = Riyadh.

• Naukrigulf KSA – keywords “NHC housing project”.