Sustainability at heart of Saudi Green Building Forum

The 13th Saudi Green Building Forum opens in Riyadh on Monday at the King Abdullah Financial Center. (@saaf)
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Updated 08 October 2023
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Sustainability at heart of Saudi Green Building Forum

  • Two-day construction industry event opens on Monday in Riyadh

RIYADH: The 13th Saudi Green Building Forum opens in Riyadh on Monday at the King Abdullah Financial Center.

The two-day event, whose theme is “Localization of Sustainable Development Goals,” seeks to promote a sustainable future for the construction industry by eliminating carbon emissions and promoting the use of eco-friendly materials.

It will cover such areas as energy, water, green cities, partnerships and technology.

Aligned with the UN’s sustainable development goals and Saudi Vision 2030, the forum underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainability and a diversified non-oil economy.

It is also integrated with the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, which have the shared goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060.

Faisal Al-Fadhl, secretary-general of the Saudi Green Building Forum, said the comprehensive strategy was tailored to the country’s unique geographical landscape and Arab heritage.

Abdulaziz Al-Turki, chairman of Rawabi Holding Group and Magnom Properties, which are taking part in the event, said: “Our involvement in the forum aligns with our commitment to drive sustainability in the real estate sector and demonstrates our leadership in providing long-term solutions for the Saudi real estate market.”


Diriyah in 2025 — A year of exceptional achievement

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Diriyah in 2025 — A year of exceptional achievement

  • Jerry Inzerillo: In 2025, the project reached a pivotal stage, transitioning from laying foundations to large-scale delivery, marking a clear shift from vision to execution
  • Partnerships with The Helicopter Co. and Kakao Mobility advanced smart aerial and ground transportation solutions

JEDDAH: Under the theme “Vision to Reality,” Diriyah has moved beyond aspiration in 2025, translating long-held plans into a tangible, lived experience, according to Jerry Inzerillo, group chief executive officer of Diriyah Co.

Throughout the year, Diriyah Company, the Saudi Public Investment Fund entity developing the Diriyah giga-project, advanced from planning and preparation into delivery. Contracts and agreements exceeding SR24 billion ($6.4 billion) marked a pivotal transition from the establishment phase to early operations. 

Inzerillo told Arab News: “At Diriyah, progress is measured by what is delivered on the ground against the plans we set. In 2025, the project reached a pivotal stage, transitioning from laying foundations to large-scale delivery, marking a clear shift from vision to execution. 

“Together, these achievements reinforce Diriyah’s role as one of the Kingdom’s most important national transformation projects, with growing impact locally and internationally. We remain committed to advancing with responsibility and purpose, transforming ambition into reality and creating a destination that honors history while shaping the future.”

In 2025, Diriyah Co. signed eight major contracts, alongside 16 agreements, reinforcing delivery momentum across multiple development streams. International recognition also continued to grow, with Diriyah earning prestigious global awards and securing positions in influential international rankings, Inzerillo said.

Infrastructure development played a central role in shaping the visitor experience. New road networks were delivered to ensure smooth connectivity between historic districts and contemporary developments.

The company also inaugurated two high-capacity electricity transmission substations, securing the power required to support residents, visitors and a growing portfolio of residential, hospitality, educational and cultural assets. 

Collaboration with Majid Al-Futtaim Group introduced a portfolio of global brands, positioning Diriyah Square as a distinctive shopping and entertainment destination, Inzerillo said. At the same time, Diriyah’s partnerships with the Saudi Contractors Authority and the Saudi Tennis Federation embedded sports, events and professional initiatives into the fabric of urban life. 

Diriyah’s vision extended into the future of mobility and design, Inzerillo said. Partnerships with The Helicopter Co. and Kakao Mobility advanced smart aerial and ground transportation solutions, designed to make movement across the city faster, more efficient and integrated.

Diriyah Company, in collaboration with Pantone, unveiled “Diriyah Tan,” a custom color inspired by the city’s historic mud architecture. More than a visual signature, the color captures Diriyah’s identity, bridging its origins with its contemporary expression.

Diriyah’s excellence was also recognized at the highest international level, Inzerillo said. In 2025, TIME magazine named Diriyah Company among the World’s 100 Most Influential Companies, acknowledging the project’s cultural, economic and urban impact.