Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman, has unveiled plans for the King Salman Gate project in Makkah, a major mixed-use development near the Grand Mosque. The initiative, part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme, is set to transform the city’s infrastructure and urban environment.
A Vision for Makkah’s Future
Covering an area of 12 million square metres, King Salman Gate will feature residential, cultural, and service facilities designed to enhance the experience of worshippers and visitors. Strategically located near the Grand Mosque, the development aims to accommodate up to 900,000 worshippers in its indoor and outdoor prayer areas. This expansion will support the growing number of pilgrims and visitors coming to Makkah each year.
The project is part of the Pilgrim Experience Programme, an initiative under Saudi Vision 2030 that focuses on improving the pilgrimage experience. It combines Makkah’s rich architectural heritage with modern urban design, ensuring the preservation of the city’s historical and cultural identity while introducing new services and amenities.
Heritage and Cultural Integration
Around 19,000 square metres of heritage and cultural zones will be revitalised as part of the development. This integration of cultural elements will enhance the spiritual journey of visitors, providing a deeper connection to the city’s religious and historical significance. In addition, the King Salman Gate project will be well-connected to public transport networks, making access to the Grand Mosque easier for pilgrims.
Economic Impact
King Salman Gate is expected to generate over 300,000 jobs by 2036, significantly contributing to the Kingdom’s economic diversification efforts. The development is not only a religious and cultural landmark but also a major employment generator. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of Vision 2030, which seeks to reduce Saudi Arabia’s reliance on oil revenue and foster growth in new sectors such as tourism and hospitality.
Rou’a Al-Haram Al-Makki Company, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund, is leading the development. The company is focused on integrating sustainable resource management and innovative urban solutions, with the aim of improving the quality of life for residents and visitors while meeting global sustainability and real estate standards.
A Sign of Progress
This announcement is part of a series of mega-projects launched under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan. These initiatives are positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for tourism and hospitality. According to Knight Frank’s fourth annual Saudi Arabia Giga Projects Report, contract awards for Saudi Arabia’s giga projects have reached $196 billion in 2025, marking a 20 per cent increase from the previous year.
As the Kingdom moves forward with such ambitious projects, the King Salman Gate development stands out as a testament to its commitment to modernising its infrastructure while preserving its cultural and religious heritage.
