King Salman Gate Project Unveiled: Massive Mixed-Use Development Next to Makkah’s Grand Mosque

In a landmark announcement, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman has unveiled the launch of the King Salman Gate project a sprawling, mixed-use urban development located adjacent to the Grand Mosque in Makkah. According to the Saudi Gazette, the project spans a colossal 12 million square metres of built-up area, aiming to redefine the urban and spiritual landscape of Islam’s holiest city.

Strategically positioned next to the Grand Mosque, the development is set to enhance the capacity for worshippers, accommodating approximately 900,000 people in both indoor and outdoor prayer spaces. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) confirmed that this visionary project supports the broader goals of the Pilgrim Experience Programme under Saudi Vision 2030, seeking to enrich both the spiritual and cultural journey of visitors and pilgrims alike.

The design of King Salman Gate merges Makkah’s historical and architectural heritage with cutting-edge urban planning. Around 19,000 square metres will be dedicated to rehabilitated heritage and cultural zones, offering an immersive and meaningful experience to those visiting the holy city. Modern public transport networks will connect the area seamlessly to the Grand Mosque, easing congestion and improving accessibility for millions of pilgrims annually.

Beyond its spiritual and cultural significance, the project will serve as a major economic catalyst. Developed by Rou’a Al-Haram Al-Makki Company, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the initiative is expected to generate more than 300,000 jobs by 2036, supporting economic diversification and sustainable development. The company places strong emphasis on innovative solutions and resource sustainability to elevate the quality of life for both residents and pilgrims, in line with international urban development and sustainability standards.

The King Salman Gate development is the latest addition to the Kingdom’s expanding portfolio of giga-projects, which have reached a record $196 billion in contract awards in 2025, a 20% increase over 2024, according to Knight Frank’s Saudi Giga Projects Report. These projects are central to Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious blueprint to reduce reliance on oil revenues and bolster sectors such as tourism, real estate, and hospitality.

As Saudi Arabia continues to transform its cities and religious destinations into global beacons of sustainable urbanism and cultural richness, the King Salman Gate stands as a bold symbol of progress blending spirituality, heritage, and future-focused development at the heart of the Islamic world.