Knowledge Economic City Madinah Growth

Knowledge Economic City (KEC) is taking center stage at RLC Global Forum 2026 in Riyadh, highlighting its transformative role in advancing retail-led mixed-use destination development in Madinah. The publicly listed developer is positioning itself as a catalyst for lifestyle, commercial, and retail growth in one of Saudi Arabia’s fastest-evolving urban markets.

Operating under the supervision of the Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority (ECZA), KEC is delivering an ambitious 6.8 million square meter masterplan designed to serve over 200,000 residents and welcome millions of visitors annually. By integrating retail with hospitality, mobility, culture, and community infrastructure, the development is enabling long-term investment opportunities and sustainable growth in the Holy City.

Flagship Projects Reshaping Madinah’s Retail Landscape

At the core of Knowledge Economic City’s strategy are three key developments that will redefine shopping, dining, and lifestyle experiences in Madinah:

Multaqa Almadinah represents Madinah’s first lifestyle mall, featuring a Gross Leasable Area (GLA) of 71,000 square meters. Directly connected to the boulevard, Hilton Hotel, and Hilton Residences, this integrated destination will offer a curated mix of international and regional retailers, entertainment venues, and lifestyle experiences. With a projected investment of SAR 2.2 billion, Multaqa Almadinah is set to become a magnet for both local and regional tourism.

Madinah Gate stands as the Kingdom’s first Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), seamlessly integrated with the Haramain High-Speed Railway Station. Phase one delivers 22,750 square meters of retail, dining, and leisure space, complemented by a DoubleTree by Hilton and dedicated bus and taxi terminals. This SAR 600 million investment activates transit-led economic activity and enhances connectivity.

Islamic World District spans 980,000 square meters and captures the spiritual and historic richness of Madinah. The district targets over 14,000 hotel rooms across 3- to 5-star categories, attracting leading global operators including Hilton, Marriott, Radisson, and Aston. The architecture reflects the diversity of the Islamic World, creating a unique cultural destination.

Ambitious Hospitality Expansion Plans

Knowledge Economic City plans to deliver more than 11,000 hotel keys in upcoming phases, with a long-term ambition to reach 20,000 keys by 2030. This diversified hospitality portfolio will support tourism growth, enhance quality of life, and expand investment opportunities in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.

“Knowledge Economic City represents a new generation of urban development in Saudi Arabia, where long-term economic ambition is closely linked to livability, investment, and cultural relevance. As the Kingdom continues to advance new models of urban and economic development, our partnership with Knowledge Economic City is focused on how large-scale destinations can support long-term growth, attract investment, and remain relevant to future generations.”
Panos Linardos, Chairman of the RLC Global Forum

Strategic Vision for Madinah’s Transformation

“Through our flagship projects, Multaqa Almadinah and Madinah Gate, we are attracting world-class experiences, enhancing quality of life, and reinforcing Madinah’s role as both a spiritual and economic hub.”
Hazem Elbanna, Acting CEO of Knowledge Economic City

During RLC Global Forum 2026, KEC is participating in the session “Mixed Use Developments of the Two Holy Cities,” examining how retail, hospitality, mobility, and services can form a seamless ecosystem that enhances the pilgrim and visitor experience while unlocking long-term value for investors and operators.

Investment Opportunities and Future Outlook

Strategically located near the Prophet’s Mosque, the Haramain High-Speed Rail station, and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, KEC plays a vital role in supporting Saudi Vision 2030. The development aligns with key national programs including the Pilgrim Experience Program, Quality of Life, Housing, and Human Capability Development initiatives.

With leasing opportunities now available, Knowledge Economic City welcomes retail brands and partners to participate in this new era of Madinah’s urban and commercial development. The integrated destinations connect people, commerce, and culture while creating sustainable value for all stakeholders in one of the Kingdom’s most significant transformation projects.