Saudi Arabia is entering a period of rapid change, reshaping itself into a destination where modern living and cultural richness coexist. Ambitious projects, community-centered planning, and lifestyle-driven policies are bringing new choices for residents. Those exploring property for sale in Saudi Arabia will find opportunities that combine convenience, heritage, and contemporary amenities in ways not seen before.
Vision 2030 and the Quality of Life Program
One of the strongest drivers of this transformation is Vision 2030. At its core is the Quality of Life Program, a multibillion-dollar initiative designed to enhance leisure, culture, and wellness. This program opened Saudi’s first cinemas, expanded public entertainment, and created large-scale cultural festivals such as Riyadh Season—a city-wide event featuring concerts, exhibitions, and international dining.
For residents, this means access to experiences that were previously unavailable at home. Neighborhoods now benefit from public parks, cultural centers, and improved transport links that make everyday life more engaging and accessible.
Cities Reimagined for Living
Saudi Arabia’s urban centers are evolving into lifestyle hubs.
- Riyadh is at the heart of the New Murabba Project, planned as the world’s largest downtown district. It will include museums, theaters, green boulevards, and wellness facilities, all integrated into residential neighborhoods.
- Jeddah Central is a $20 billion redevelopment along the Red Sea coast. Scheduled for its first phase by 2027, it will introduce 17,000 residential units, an opera house, art museums, and a vibrant marina.
- Madinah’s Rua Al Madinah Project focuses on hospitality and culture, aiming to welcome 30 million visitors by 2030 while creating urban spaces that combine tradition with modern convenience.
Coastal Lifestyle on the Red Sea
The western shoreline is being developed into a new hub for leisure and resort-style living. The Red Sea Project already includes resorts such as Six Senses Southern Dunes and The St. Regis Red Sea Resort. Alongside tourism, residential options are emerging for those who want to make coastal living part of their everyday lifestyle. White beaches, coral reefs, and sailing facilities are complemented by eco-conscious planning, ensuring residents can enjoy natural surroundings without sacrificing comfort.
(Mountain Retreats in Asir
Not all developments are urban or coastal. In the highlands of Asir, Soudah Peaks is designed as a year-round mountain retreat. Villas and chalets will be integrated with hiking routes, cable cars, and cultural centers, offering a cooler climate and slower pace of life. For families and professionals seeking balance, this represents a lifestyle choice rooted in nature and outdoor recreation.
Everyday Comforts and Lifestyle Amenities
Communities across Saudi Arabia are also introducing features that shape daily life.
- In Riyadh, Al Narjis Park has become a favorite spot for families, offering shaded walkways and playgrounds.
- The King Fahd Cultural Center hosts concerts and exhibitions, creating cultural touchpoints close to home.
- Gated compounds such as Al Nakhla Residential Resort combine luxury residences with swimming pools, co-working spaces, fitness clubs, and international schools.
Market Trends and Prices
The shift toward lifestyle-focused real estate is also reflected in the numbers:
- In Riyadh, apartments average $1,640 per m², while villas are priced around $1,450 per m².
- In Jeddah, apartments stand at about $1,150 per m², villas at $1,340 per m².
- In Madinah, more affordable options exist, with villas averaging $930 per m².
At the premium end, exclusive residences in luxury compounds and city-center districts can reach $3,600 per m². These figures highlight both accessibility and high-end opportunity, depending on lifestyle preferences.
Perspectives from Residents
Lifestyle changes are also being felt personally. Many expats report improvements in quality of life, citing better community living, more cultural activities, and the ability to enjoy entertainment without leaving the country. Saudi nationals are embracing new housing models too, as homeownership surpassed 65% of families by 2024, exceeding the government’s target.
A Growing International Community
In Riyadh and Jeddah, gated compounds are home to professionals from Europe, Asia, and North America who value the balance of privacy and community. Expat residents highlight benefits such as international schools for their children, modern healthcare facilities, and the convenience of new leisure destinations that make life easier and more enjoyable.
For example, international families often choose compounds like Al Nakhla in Riyadh, where amenities include bilingual schools, fitness centers, and restaurants serving global cuisine. Others are settling along the Red Sea coast, where new mixed-use districts offer both employment opportunities and resort-style living. The government’s recent expansion of long-term visas has also made it easier for expatriates to purchase homes, creating a more stable and welcoming environment for those looking to stay.
All these changes point to one thing: Saudi Arabia is becoming a place where families from different parts of the world can put down roots, enjoy modern comforts, and experience a lifestyle that is both global and distinctly Saudi.
