Saudi Arabia in focus

Having previously directed our studios in Abu Dhabi and New Delhi, Akshay brings a wealth of regional insight and international experience. In this conversation, he reflects on the Kingdom’s dynamic transformation, the design principles driving its future, and how BDP is contributing to the creation of sustainable, people-focused communities that align with Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia combines bold ambition with real investment in social infrastructure, reflecting BDP’s focus on creating meaningful places and aligning with the principles of our Good City initiative. Guided by Vision 2030, projects aren’t just about scale – they’re about shaping sustainable communities.

On a recent visit, I experienced this balance at upscale Diriyah Gate, where heritage meets contemporary design, while in another precinct the public realm was geared towards the community, and the neighbourhood spaces were full of life at dusk. Initiatives such as King Salman Park and Green Riyadh are transforming access to green space, while new housing, healthcare facilities, and investments in schools and universities are empowering communities and the next generation. Urban developments are keeping pace with rapid social change, including progress towards gender equality in the workforce. With a pipeline of around $1.5 trillion, these projects are about more than infrastructure – they are creating a lasting legacy.

Design is increasingly focused on liveable, sustainable communities that respect heritage while embracing innovation. Urban planning emphasises walkable streets, vibrant public spaces, and integrated green infrastructure to promote active, healthy lifestyles.

Architecturally, developments blend cultural identity with smart technologies, advanced construction methods, and modular approaches. Flexibility is key – buildings and public spaces can adapt as communities evolve. Sustainability underpins everything, with many projects targeting LEED Gold or Platinum standards and incorporating passive strategies, energy efficiency, and renewable energy. These approaches are shaping a distinctive design language for Saudi Arabia – balancing ambition with tradition, scale with human experience, and innovation with resilience.

BDP has been active in the MENA region since 2009, opening our Abu Dhabi studio in 2010 and our first project  in Saudi Arabia was  the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) Masterplan in 2011. We’ve worked across retail-mixed use, education, cultural, healthcare, R&D, and urban design projects in the UAE, Egypt, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Highlights include helping the University of Birmingham and Heriot-Watt University establish their first campuses in Dubai, international campuses for New York University and Ecole 42, and the redevelopment of Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi. More recently, we delivered the Paddock Club for Formula 1 at Yas Marina and a series of iconic sports stadiums across the region. Current projects in Saudi Arabia include stadium design and new school typologies.

Challenges often arise from complex contracts, different building codes, and extended approval processes, but patience, collaboration, and strong local partnerships make a real difference. Projects like Qasr Al Hosn, the Paddock Club, and the public realm transformation proposals along Abu Dhabi’s Airport Road have been particularly rewarding, reflecting BDP’s commitment to designing a world built for good.

Building trust, cultural awareness, and long-term commitment is central to every relationship. At BDP, we prioritise collaboration over transactions, working closely with clients and consultants to deliver projects that create real community value.

Mirroring BDP’s ESG and Social Value commitments, projects that deliver tangible benefits in education, health, or sustainability are highly valued and strengthen relationships. Working with diverse teams across the region also enriches our projects, bringing multiple perspectives to design and delivery. Our focus remains on nurturing existing partnerships and forging new ones to support Saudi Arabia’s ongoing transformation.