Ardara starts early works on first cluster of AlWadi in Abha

Nov. 09, 2026

The PIF-backed developer has appointed a sewerage contractor and an infrastructure supervisor as on-site work gets under way at its 2.5 million sq m waterfront scheme in Aseer.

Rendering of a landscaped pedestrian street lined with low-rise buildings and towers at AlWadi, Ardara's mixed-use development in Downtown Abha

Rendering of a pedestrian street at AlWadi, where Ardara has begun early construction works on the first cluster (Image source: Ardara)

Abha, Saudi Arabia - Ardara, the developer backed by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has started early construction works on the first cluster of AlWadi, its mixed-use development in Abha.

The sewerage works have gone to Shibh Al Jazira Contracting Company (Sajco). Dar Al Riyadh will manage the project and oversee its infrastructure works.

AlWadi covers 2.5 million sq m in Downtown Abha. Its architecture and character will take their cue from the heritage and distinctive identity of the Aseer region, according to the developer.

Ardara said the destination will centre on elegantly designed homes, with commercial space, retail hubs and entertainment venues intended to attract residents and visitors in every season.

Across the wider development, Ardara’s masterplan allows for roughly 2.02 million sq m of gross floor area. It provides for 7,306 apartments, 90 villas and townhouses, and 2,783 hotel keys.

Retail and food and beverage outlets are allocated 154,082 sq m, offices 64,161 sq m, and leisure and entertainment facilities 59,075 sq m, Ardara said in a LinkedIn post.

Aerial rendering of AlWadi in Abha at dusk, showing terraced buildings, twin towers and a lake set against the Aseer mountains

Aerial rendering of AlWadi, which Ardara's masterplan gives a planned gross floor area of about 2.02 million sq m (Image source: Ardara)

Parsons is the project’s infrastructure designer and OBMI is handling architectural and public realm design, the company said, with Dar Al Riyadh in charge of infrastructure management and supervision. Ardara appointed Parsons and OBMI in October 2024.

AlWadi is Ardara’s flagship destination. It is divided into five character districts that will bring together residences, hospitality, commercial space and entertainment venues alongside 16 km of waterfront assets and 17 km of sports tracks.

The developer said the scheme will meet global sustainability standards and promote active lifestyles, with more than 30% of its area set aside as green and open space. The 17 km of tracks are for walking and cycling, and the plans also make room for cultural activities and community gatherings.

Each district is intended to offer a different experience. According to Ardara, AlWadi will include 2,000 residence options, from luxury apartments to modern villas, along with high-end hotel accommodation, commercial space and high-quality offices, all developed in keeping with the history and identity of the region.

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister and Chairman of PIF, launched Ardara in October 2023, with AlWadi as its first development.

PIF said at the time that AlWadi is set to contribute more than $5.07 billion (SAR 19 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s non-oil GDP by 2030.