New Qatif promenade beckons locals with coastal views, diverse flavors

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Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast. (AN photo)
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Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast. (AN photo)
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Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast. (AN photo)
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Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast. (AN photo)
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Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast. (AN photo)
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Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast. (AN photo)
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Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast. (AN photo)
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Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast. (AN photo)
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Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast. (AN photo)
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Updated 08 December 2024
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New Qatif promenade beckons locals with coastal views, diverse flavors

  • C Front promises shopping, dining, and entertainment catering to different tastes
  • Project boasts a 2-km promenade for families and friends to stroll along while enjoying views of the waters

DHAHRAN: Nestled in the vibrant Al-Shubaili neighborhood of Qatif, C Front emerges like a jewel along the coast, shimmering against the backdrop of the sea and the picturesque Qatif Corniche.

With 60 commercial units offering everything from trendy boutiques to delightful eateries, C Front promises shopping, dining, and entertainment catering to different tastes.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a lively atmosphere where the salty breeze mingles with the aroma of diverse cuisines.

The project boasts a beautiful 2-km promenade for families and friends to stroll along while enjoying captivating views of the glistening waters and lively community.

Enhanced by dancing fountains and spectacular lighting and sound systems, the promenade transforms ordinary shopping trips into extraordinary experiences.

Currently, C FRONT also features exciting pop-up shops that are available until Dec. 14.

These include local abaya designers, clothing shops, Arab perfumes, gold jewelry, frankincense from Oman, dried fruits, books, and a diverse range of restaurants serving sweet delights like chocolate and ice cream, as well as savory options like tacos and burgers.

There is also a play area and an “Ice Kingdom” where kids can play with snow.

While the pop-up shops are temporary, the permanent stores will remain open, promising a wealth of choices, including cafes, food outlets, and family-friendly options.

“The vision for developing C Front is to create a comprehensive destination that reflects the aspirations of Qatif and aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 in supporting economic and social development,” said Khaled Al-Rasoul Shahab, executive director of Al-Seef Al-Sharqi Co.

Laila Abualsaud, co-owner of Tree Optics with her husband, expressed her enthusiasm for being involved in this exciting project.

“Tree Optics was founded to deliver an exceptional eyewear shopping experience, emphasizing creativity and quality. We are proud to be the first store to open in the unique C Front location,” she told Arab News.

Speaking about what is to come, Shahab said, “We plan to host a series of recreational and cultural events at C Front, including seasonal markets, live performances, and activities for all ages.

“Collaborations with local and international brands will further enhance its appeal as a key destination in Qatif.”

He also highlighted the range of businesses at C Front: “The project features a diverse lineup of restaurants, cafes, fashion shops, and the first hotel in Qatif, elevating service standards and enhancing the shopping experience with numerous options for visitors.”

Discussing C Front’s architectural choices, he added, “C Front features an innovative blend of modernity and Qatif’s coastal character, inspired by the natural environment.

“Its design emphasizes open spaces and visitors’ comfort while reflecting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 by focusing on quality design and showcasing local identity.”

Alseef Alsharqi Co., a multi-activity firm engaged in real estate development, investment, and contracting, and Ryadah, an investment and real estate marketing company specializing in facilities and property management, both played crucial roles in bringing C Front to fruition.

Saudi Minister of Municipalities and Housing Majed Al-Hogail and Eastern Province Secretary Fahd Al-Jubair recently visited C Front as part of a broader exploration of development projects and investment opportunities in the area.


Makkah’s urban shift enhances the city’s quality of life

Updated 08 February 2026
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Makkah’s urban shift enhances the city’s quality of life

  • By harmonizing its religious heritage with modern urban development, Makkah is proving that a city can honor its past while vigorously embracing the future

MAKKAH: Islam’s holiest city is currently witnessing a qualitative urban shift, one that seamlessly blends its profound spiritual sanctity with a modern, vibrant lifestyle. By integrating cultural, educational, and entertainment initiatives, Makkah is redefining the visitor experience and significantly enhancing the quality of life for its residents, directly supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

The city’s transformation was recently highlighted by the success of the Makkah winter season. The event attracted approximately 400,000 visitors — over 60% of whom were locals — demonstrating a strong domestic demand for high-quality public spaces.

The season revitalized community interaction, driving a 35% increase in visits to recreational sites and creating more than 1,200 temporary jobs for the local workforce.

Central to this urban renaissance is the Hira Cultural District. Since opening its doors in January 2023 near the historic Mount Hira, the district has become a definitive landmark that bridges Islamic history with contemporary identity.

Makkah’s Hira Cultural District has become a definitive landmark that bridges Islamic history with contemporary identity. (SPA photo)

Far from being a static monument, the district has cultivated a thriving creative economy. Its craftsmanship program, which features over 100 artisans, has generated up to SAR 3 million in sales and attracted 130,000 visitors to live workshops. These interactive spaces allow visitors to engage directly with the region’s heritage, moving beyond passive observation to active participation.

A living legacy 

The shift extends to Makkah’s broader ecosystem of museums and cultural sites, which are now positioned as key pillars of cultural tourism. Facilities like the Revelation Exhibition use cutting-edge technology and multilingual content to narrate the story of the Holy Quran’s revelation, offering an immersive experience that complements the spiritual journey of pilgrims.

These efforts align with the “Makkah: A Living Legacy” campaign, which seeks to document the city’s historical narrative and preserve its collective memory. Recent months have seen a surge in educational workshops for university students and tour guides, ensuring that the human element of Makkah’s history is conveyed with accuracy and depth.

City’s transformation recently highlighted by the success of the Makkah winter season. (SPA photo)
 

Economic and social impact 

The results of this integrated approach are tangible. Specialized museums and restored historic sites now attract up to 1.6 million annual visitors. Crucially, this cultural enrichment is encouraging pilgrims to linger longer, increasing the average duration of stay by 18%.

By harmonizing its religious heritage with modern urban development, Makkah is proving that a city can honor its past while vigorously embracing the future, offering a holistic experience that nourishes both the soul and the community.