< PreviousCRAFTED CONCEPTS 40SEPTEMBER 2024 Left: Prince Faisal bin Fahad Sports City Stadium; Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium Right: Jeddah Central Development Stadium; ROSHN Stadium; King Khalid University Stadium KING FAHAD SPORTS CITY STADIUM Refurbishment work has already started on this existing stadium and is expected to be completed in 2026. The stadium is currently home to the national football team and has hosted a number of sports and entertainment events. It currently seats over 58,000 spectators, which will be increased to 70,000 plus by the end of refurbishment. PRINCE MOHAMMED BIN SALMAN STADIUM A planned new stadium, this venue—located 35 kilometres southwest of Riyadh—will be owned and operated by Qiddiya Investment Company. The stadium is expected to be completed in 2029. Once completed, it will have capacity for over 46,000 fans. The design features a retractable roof and a unique arrangement that allows views of the Tuwaiq cliff s. NEW MURABBA STADIUM This 45,000-seat multipurpose venue will be owned and operated by the New Murabba Development Company. Work will begin in 2027 and is expected to be completed in fi ve years. The design of this stadium is inspired by the multi-layered bark of an acacia tree. ROSHN STADIUM Work on this planned stadium is set to last from 2028 to 2032. Owned and operated by ROSHN, the venue will be located in southwest Riyadh. It will be able to host over 45,000 spectators and will transform into a community stadium after the tournament. The saddle-shaped seating bowl and envelope and diff erent stand heights will CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 40CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 4027/08/2024 19:2127/08/2024 19:21CRAFTED CONCEPTS 41SEPTEMBER 2024 enable shading and cross-ventilation. PRINCE FAISAL BIN FAHAD SPORTS CITY STADIUM Located in Riyadh, this new stadium designed by Populous is currently under construction and expected to be completed in 2027. It can seat around 46,000 fans and will be home to a professional football club later. The stadium design draws inspiration from the “culturally contextualised modernism” principles of Salmani architecture. The stadium will be constructed using locally produced materials and will utilise energy- effi cient systems including extensive solar panels on the roof. SOUTH RIYADH STADIUM This planned new stadium is expected to start construction in 2029 and be completed by 2032. It will be located in southwest Riyadh, connected to the Wadi Namar and its future development as part of the Green Riyadh Project. It has a seating capacity of over 45,000. Its design is inspired by local Salmani architecture and incorporates a rainwater harvesting system as well as solar power generation. KING SAUD UNIVERSITY STADIUM Refurbishment for this existing venue at a university campus in Riyadh is set to begin in 2030 and fi nish in 2032. It is the current home of Al Nassr club—which Cristiano Ronaldo captains—and is owned by King Saud University, while Saudi Media Company handles operations. It has a current capacity of 27,000, which will be increased to around 46,000 for the FIFA World Cup. The refurbished stadium will include an elliptical lightweight spoke wheel roof and placement of amenities that ensure accessibility and adherence to FIFA guidelines. KING ABDULLAH SPORTS CITY STADIUM The refurbishment of this existing stadium CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 41CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 4126/08/2024 17:5126/08/2024 17:51CRAFTED CONCEPTS 42SEPTEMBER 2024 to bring it in line with FIFA requirements will begin in 2030 in time for a 2032 fi nish. It was built in 2014 and is home to the Al Ahli and Al Ittihad clubs. It’s also the second-largest stadium in the kingdom with a capacity for 57,000 spectators. The stadium is located to the north of central Jeddah. QIDDIYA COAST STADIUM This planned new 46,000-seat stadium is set to start construction in 2029 and be completed in 2032. Owned and operated by Qiddiya Investment Company, it will be located in northern Jeddah’s Qiddiya Coast Development on the Red Sea shore. Its design is inspired by the ripple eff ect of a Mexican wave, undulating and colourful. The football pitch itself and the upper tier of the stadium will be removable to allow for a reduced capacity as well as use the venue for other purposes. JEDDAH CENTRAL DEVELOPMENT STADIUM The Jeddah Central Development Stadium began construction this year and is expected to be completed in three years. It has a capacity of over 45,000, with its three- tier design blending into the surrounding architectural style of Jeddah’s Al Balad district. It features a fully covered semi- translucent roof above a retractable inner roof and a 360° LED screen. It is located within the Jeddah Central Development at Al Andalus, and is owned and operated by the developer. KING ABDULLAH ECONOMIC CITY STADIUM Construction on this new 45,000-seat stadium is expected to begin in 2027 and complete in 2032. Owned and operated by the Ministry of Sport, this venue will be located in the emerging King Abdullah Economic City area on the Red Sea Coast north of Jeddah. The design is inspired by local coral reefs, and includes a precinct of additional facilities outside of the stadium, such as three hotels, mixed-use areas and a sports clinic. ARAMCO STADIUM This new stadium is being built in conjunction with ROSHN Group and oil giant Saudi Left: King Abdullah Sports City Stadium; New Murabba Stadium; King Salman International Stadium Right: Qiddiya Coast Stadium; NEOM Stadium; South Riyadh Stadium CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 42CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 4227/08/2024 19:2527/08/2024 19:25CRAFTED CONCEPTS 43SEPTEMBER 2024 Aramco near the Corniche in Al Khobar on the east coast. Construction is underway and is expected to be completed in 2026. The venue has a capacity of around 45,000 and will be used for the AFC Asian Cup in 2027 in addition to the World Cup. The exterior design features overlapping sails and waves that mimic the whirlpool phenomenon known as dawwam, which occurs off the coastline during the summer months. The site will also include training facilities, and commercial and retail spaces. KING KHALID UNIVERSITY STADIUM Refurbishment on this existing stadium southeast of Abha City is set to begin in 2030, with completion planned for 2030. King Khalid University owns the stadium, which is currently in use, while the operator is A.S. Al Sayed & Partners Contracting Co. Ltd. The venue will see a temporary expansion to increase its capacity to accommodate 45,000 spectators as well as modernising the infrastructure as part of the refurbishment. Upgrades include a permanent new west stand and technological additions. The area surrounding the stadium will also see infrastructure and amenities upgrades. NEOM STADIUM This planned new stadium will begin construction in 2027 in time for a 2032 fi nish, and will be owned and operated by NEOM. Reportedly, the stadium will be designed by BIG, which is also designing the fi rst section of THE LINE and the OXAGON fl oating port city. According to the bid book, the 45,000- seat stadium will be ‘the most unique in the world’. The pitch will be situated 350 metres above ground level with a roof created from the city itself, located in a new sports-centred neighbourhood adjacent to the Health and Wellbeing District and the University, which can be accessed from multiple levels in THE LINE. The stadium will run on renewable energy and the connecting. CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 43CWPME_Sep2024_38-43_Crafted Concepts_13371119.indd 4326/08/2024 17:5126/08/2024 17:5144SEPTEMBER 202444SEPTEMBER 2024 CWPME_Sep2024_44-45_Homescape Horizons Opener_13364522.indd 44CWPME_Sep2024_44-45_Homescape Horizons Opener_13364522.indd 4423/08/2024 14:4123/08/2024 14:4145SEPTEMBER 2024 HOMESCAPE HORIZONS Redefining the concept of modern living through smart home solutions, contemporary interiors, and elite amenities 45SEPTEMBER 2024 CWPME_Sep2024_44-45_Homescape Horizons Opener_13364522.indd 45CWPME_Sep2024_44-45_Homescape Horizons Opener_13364522.indd 4523/08/2024 14:4123/08/2024 14:41HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 46SEPTEMBER 2024 CWPME_Sep2024_46-49_Homescape Horizons_13370280.indd 46CWPME_Sep2024_46-49_Homescape Horizons_13370280.indd 4626/08/2024 09:1526/08/2024 09:15HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 47SEPTEMBER 2024 DECODING DUBAI’S PREMIUM PROPERTY PUZZLE Confused between luxury and ultra-luxury homes in Dubai? We break down the key differences, and provide insights for discerning buyers seeking the ultimate living experience Words by Shehzin Shaikh Amina Mistry (35), a working professional has been on the lookout for a new home for the past six months. After conducting an online search recently, she found herself more confused than enlightened. In her own words, “As a fi rst- time home buyer, I am aiming to invest in an apartment in a prestigious area to provide my family with a comfortable living environment. However, while browsing through property listings last weekend, I came to realise that there are two distinct categories within the premium housing segment–luxury homes and ultra-luxury homes. This prompted me to enquire about the key diff erences between the two, but unfortunately, I was unable to fi nd a satisfactory answer.” So, if you are in a similar boat as Mistry, then read on as we have reached out to experts to get clarity on the same. ENJOYING STRONG VALUE GROWTH As per industry experts, the growing wealth and spending power of the population has led to a greater inclination towards extravagant lifestyles. Furthermore, a new Images supplied by: Shutterstock Left: Prices of luxury homes in Dubai valued at $10 million or more experienced rapid growth, outpacing global rates, driven by sustained demand from international buyers for prestigious properties in the emirate CWPME_Sep2024_46-49_Homescape Horizons_13370280.indd 47CWPME_Sep2024_46-49_Homescape Horizons_13370280.indd 4726/08/2024 09:1526/08/2024 09:15HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 48SEPTEMBER 2024 breed of affl uent consumers, distinguished by their discerning tastes and preference for sophistication, are placing more importance on distinctive living experiences, thereby driving up demand for luxury housing. Prices of luxury homes in Dubai valued at $10 million or more experienced rapid growth, outpacing global rates, driven by sustained demand from international buyers for prestigious properties in the emirate. According to a report by property consultancy Knight Frank, Dubai’s prime residential market, encompassing areas like The Palm Jumeirah, Jumeirah Bay Island, and Emirates Hills, witnessed a price surge of over 26% in the past year. The fi rst quarter of this year saw 105 transactions of homes priced above $10 million, marking a 19% increase from the same period last year, with Palm Jumeirah accounting for maximum number of sales. LUXURY VS ULTRA-LUXURY HOMES Luxury properties boast unique characteristics, including exceptional architectural design, high-end materials, and top-notch fi nishes. In contrast, ultra-luxury residential properties exceed these standards, redefi ning luxury with unparalleled opulence. These properties are distinguished by their extravagant nature, exclusivity, and meticulous attention to detail. Ultra-luxury residences epitomise architectural excellence, boasting custom- designed interiors and stunning panoramic vistas. These properties transcend mere amenities, providing bespoke experiences and specialised services tailored to the elite and discerning clientele. The distinction between ultra-luxury and luxury hinges on the level of exclusivity, meticulous attention to detail, and exceptional lifestyle they provide, tailored to the preferences of the buyer. In the current market, luxury properties typically start from around $5 million, while ultra-luxury homes are priced at $20 million and above. In terms of size, luxury apartments typically range between 3,000 to 5,000 square feet, with anything above 5,000 square feet is considered an ultra-luxury unit. ARE DEVELOPERS MEETING BUYERS’ EXPECTATIONS? Today’s real estate developers are attuned Left: Ultra-luxury projects now commonly include top-tier amenities such as private pools, spa and wellness centres, smart home technology, landscaped gardens, etc; Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah are popular with HNWIs Right: Dubai’s prime residential market is thriving, with a 26.3% increase in the last year CWPME_Sep2024_46-49_Homescape Horizons_13370280.indd 48CWPME_Sep2024_46-49_Homescape Horizons_13370280.indd 4826/08/2024 09:1526/08/2024 09:15HOMESCAPE HORIZONS 49SEPTEMBER 2024 to the evolving desires and expectations of affl uent home buyers, striving to exceed their needs. By incorporating sustainable features and eco-friendly designs, developers are creating environmentally conscious residences. This trend is expected to continue, fuelled by a dedication to excellence and a commitment to meeting the evolving preferences of affl uent clientele. According to experts, developers are reassessing design and features to cater to the changing needs of luxury and ultra-luxury clientele. Sustainability and biophilic designs are becoming increasingly signifi cant, ranking high on the priority list for modern buyers. In addition to architectural and design considerations, the planning, development, and maintenance of ultra-luxury residences are now key factors in buyer decision-making. LOOKING AHEAD The luxury real estate market in Dubai is poised for a signifi cant shift, powered by a focus on sustainability, technological advancements, and lifestyle-focused investments. With the city attracting a wide range of affl uent individuals, the need for premium, aesthetically pleasing, and amenity- fi lled properties is likely to remain robust. Areas like Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah will remain attractive to HNWIs, maintaining a robust demand. In addition, upcoming neighbourhoods such as Jumeirah Bay, La Mer, Pearl Jumeirah, Dubai Hills, and Mohammed Bin Rashid City are projected to garner heightened interest. Moreover, home buyers looking for a luxury property will prioritise factors like location, proximity to essential amenities, and quality infrastructure. On the other hand, those in search of an ultra-luxury residence will be focused on extravagance and exclusivity above all else. Privacy will be key, along with expansive living spaces, customisation options, and cutting-edge technology. Additionally, top-tier amenities such as private spas, entertainment areas, and dedicated concierge services will be essential for those seeking a truly extraordinary lifestyle. Given the regulatory changes and continued urban development initiatives in Dubai, the city is poised to further establish itself as a key player in the luxury real estate sector on a global scale. CWPME_Sep2024_46-49_Homescape Horizons_13370280.indd 49CWPME_Sep2024_46-49_Homescape Horizons_13370280.indd 4926/08/2024 09:1526/08/2024 09:15Next >