Chinese real estate group SmartOasis completes Riyadh project, commits SR1bn to housing strategy

Short Url
Updated 31 December 2025
Follow

Chinese real estate group SmartOasis completes Riyadh project, commits SR1bn to housing strategy

SmartOasis, a China-based group specializing in real estate development and long-term rentals, has announced the completion of the first phase of its apartment projects in central Riyadh. This milestone marks SmartOasis’ official entry into the Saudi market, with seven refurbished complexes now open to residents. The launch initiates a broader SR1 billion ($266.6 million) investment strategy targeting the capital’s housing market over the next three years, anchored by an initial SR50 million deployment in this phase.

Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Quality of Life Program under Vision 2030, the projects address the growing housing demand among urban youth, young professionals, and expatriates in Riyadh. Instead of large-scale demolition, SmartOasis adopts an urban renewal approach — revitalizing existing structures to ensure safety and sustainability. This strategy significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with the real estate sector.

“This project introduces precision engineering and supply chain efficiency, such as standardized components and optimized procurement, to Riyadh’s renewal sector,” said Chao Xu, CEO of SmartOasis. “Beyond construction, we strictly adhere to international environmental, social and governance standards, ensuring that our materials and processes prioritize both sustainability and resident well-being.”

The completed phase encompasses 300 fully furnished long-term rental units across seven refurbished buildings, covering approximately 28,000 square meters in central Riyadh. The development utilizes materials compliant with international environmental standards to ensure low emissions and durability. The construction initiatives were executed by experienced engineering teams under rigorous quality control protocols.

Beyond interior upgrades, SmartOasis has also revitalized the surrounding public realm and community infrastructure. Improvements include optimized parking layouts, upgraded safety systems, and the introduction of greenery and plant maintenance programs — collectively contributing to cleaner streetscapes and fostering livable urban neighborhoods.

“This partnership represents a strategic fusion of expertise,” said Mohammed Al-Jamhour, business partner at SmartOasis. “While the Chinese team brings technical execution, our local leadership ensures that every development is strategically aligned with Riyadh’s urban planning goals and cultural context. We are looking beyond the brick and mortar to curate a living environment that truly resonates with the modern lifestyle of Riyadh’s young professionals.”

Looking ahead, SmartOasis plans to expand its portfolio in real estate development and hospitality. The strategic roadmap includes the creation of 1,000 jobs, directly contributing to local talent development in the property management sector.


LuLu Walkathon: 22,000 participants champion greener future

Updated 12 February 2026
Follow

LuLu Walkathon: 22,000 participants champion greener future

Alkhobar’s New Corniche transformed into a vibrant hub of energy and community spirit when more than 22,000 people gathered for the highly anticipated “LuLu Walkathon.” Organized by LuLu Saudi Hypermarket, the 3-km event was held under the patronage of the Ministry of Sport and Alkhobar municipality on Jan. 31. The walkathon successfully united the community under the themes of health and environmental sustainability.
The event was held with the cooperation of Meshaal Al-Harbi, head of Alkhobar municipality, and Tareq Al-Qahtani, director of the Ministry of Sport’s Eastern Province branch. The official flag-off was performed by Mohammed Haris, director of LuLu Hypermarket Saudi Arabia.
This year’s walkathon went beyond fitness, offering a rich tapestry of entertainment including soulful traditional Arabic music, a contemporary violin performance, and a playful “donuts dance,” which ensured a festive atmosphere for families of all ages.
A major highlight of the morning was the presence of Khadra. Khadra served as a living reminder of the Kingdom’s deep-rooted cultural artistry, posing for photos with the thousands of participants who lined the coast. To ensure every attendee felt the spirit of the celebration, participants were geared up with a premium merchandise kit containing custom-branded T-shirts and caps. Furthermore, every individual who successfully completed the 3-km route was rewarded with an exclusive LuLu goodie bag at the finish line to celebrate their achievement.
Sustainability remained a core pillar for the LuLu Walkathon this year, reflecting the brand’s long-term environmental vision. LuLu’s staff managed the route with a strict focus on environmental responsibility, while strategically placed refreshment stalls kept walkers hydrated without compromising the pristine condition of the corniche.
The massive success of the event was supported by key partners, including MasterCard as the commercial sponsor and Nada, which provided vital refreshments, alongside significant support from Radio Mirchi and Alyaum newspaper.
“The walkathon concluded not just as a race, but as a meaningful tribute to the Kingdom’s past and a definitive step toward a sustainable future,” a statement said. “By blending physical activity with cultural celebration and environmental stewardship, LuLu Hypermarket reaffirmed its commitment to the Saudi community, promoting an active, engaged, and responsible lifestyle for all residents.”