Liwan Builds Next-Generation Communities for a Transforming Riyadh
Riyadh is changing fast, and Liwan Real Estate Development wants to help shape that growth. At Cityscape Global 2025, CEO Abdulrahman bin Saud Aldhyem detailed how the company plans to create mixed-use destinations that support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. He said Liwan is expanding its portfolio, improving its designs and strengthening its financing model to meet the rising demand for modern communities.
Liwan’s current projects — Livein Liwan in central Riyadh and the SAR4.5bn Liwan Najd in East Riyadh — represent the company’s largest investments. According to Aldhyem, Liwan is using data, customer research and new partnerships to prepare for rapid population growth. As a result, the company now aims to deliver destinations where residents can live, work and enjoy leisure in one integrated location.
How Liwan Chose the Location and Scale of Liwan Najd
Liwan developed its expansion plan after a detailed study of Riyadh’s real estate market. Aldhyem noted that the company reviewed demand in the East, Central, West and North regions of the capital. Because of this analysis, Liwan identified areas where mixed-use projects could deliver the most impact.
The first project, Livein Liwan, sits in Al-Mohammadiyah in central Riyadh. Liwan has already completed half of the development, while buyers have purchased 70 percent of the units. This strong demand encouraged the company to accelerate work on additional projects.
Liwan Najd, the company’s second major development, sits on a 151,000 sqm site in East Riyadh. The project includes residential, commercial, office, hospitality and educational components. Its 600,000 sqm built-up area will host more than 2,500 units and reach a projected sales value of SAR4.5bn. Aldhyem said the project’s scale reflects Liwan’s confidence in East Riyadh’s long-term growth.
Designing for Both Saudi and Non-Saudi Residents
Liwan has worked across several countries for more than two decades. Therefore, the company has deep experience serving both Saudi and international buyers. Aldhyem explained that Liwan sold real estate to more than 70 nationalities during its operations in the UAE, Egypt and Turkey. This helped Liwan understand the needs of expatriates and young professionals.
Because many non-Saudi residents prefer smaller units, Liwan now offers studios starting at 45 sqm. These units allow residents to live near work while accessing entertainment, sports and retail facilities within the same development. Meanwhile, Saudi families typically seek larger homes with privacy and flexible layouts. To meet this need, Liwan provides units that range up to 250 sqm.
Aldhyem added that Liwan conducted a detailed study of more than 5,000 customers. The research helped the company identify preferences, cultural needs and lifestyle habits. As a result, Liwan now designs communities that appeal to both current residents and future arrivals.
How Liwan Balances Residential, Office and Commercial Spaces
Creating balanced mixed-use developments is a complex task. Aldhyem explained that offices, residential units, hospitality spaces and commercial areas must operate independently to ensure privacy. At the same time, they should remain connected to create a sustainable environment.
To solve this design challenge, Liwan worked with global engineering firms. The company created separate entrances, exits and parking areas for each user group. However, pedestrian walkways connect the buildings, which allows residents, office workers and visitors to access retail areas safely.
This model creates long-term activity throughout the day. Office workers activate restaurants and cafés in the morning. Later, residents fill those spaces in the evening. Retailers benefit from steady foot traffic, while residents enjoy convenience and comfort. Because of this integrated design, each project operates for more than 18 hours daily.
Building Strong Partnerships and Financing Large Projects
Liwan believes strong partnerships are essential for large developments. The company works closely with major Saudi banks and financing institutions. As a result, Liwan now manages an investment portfolio worth more than SAR10bn.
Aldhyem said the company aims to build 10,000 residential units within the next five years. Its current portfolio includes two major projects valued at more than SAR6bn. These developments reflect Liwan’s long-term commitment to Riyadh’s urban transformation.
Managing Risk Through Off-Plan Sales and Phased Delivery
Aldhyem highlighted Liwan’s use of the Off-Plan Sales system as a key risk-management tool. Buyers pay in scheduled installments linked to construction milestones. This gives customers higher confidence because they only pay for completed phases. It also reduces the financial burden at the start of a project.
Liwan follows the same phased approach during construction. Because sales guide each phase, Liwan builds quickly and keeps costs manageable. The company also forms early alliances with major hospitality brands and pre-leases commercial units. These commitments strengthen investor confidence and increase the long-term value of each destination.
Conclusion: Preparing Riyadh for the Next Generation of Urban Living
Liwan Real Estate is designing communities that reflect Riyadh’s future. Its projects combine residential, commercial, office and leisure components in one integrated environment. With strong financing, global partnerships and data-driven planning, the company aims to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and deliver sustainable, modern destinations for both Saudi and international residents.
