In order to make room for 12 new highways and 32 interchanges, Riyadh has initiated an extraordinary road network makeover project of SAR13 billion ($3.47 billion), which includes mandatory land acquisitions. The expropriations, authorized under Saudi Arabia’s Infrastructure Expropriation Law, will affect hundreds of parcels along key corridors like King Salman Road and Northern Ring Road—with compensation claims processing immediately.
The project promises to slash commute times by 40% in the congested capital, linking to NEOM’s logistics spine and the Qiddiya entertainment hub. While owners have 90 days to appeal valuations, the municipality confirms 70% of targeted land is undeveloped. This marks Phase 1 of a SAR38 billion transport masterplan through 2030.
By constructing extra lanes, intelligent traffic systems, and interchanges to link developing neighbourhoods like Diriyah and Qiddiya, the project seeks to alleviate the capital’s ongoing congestion. By 2030, Riyadh’s population is expected to reach 10 million, making the reform essential to maintaining economic expansion.
The rapidity of expropriations is questioned by some, although officials guarantee relocation assistance and open valuation procedures. 50 km of roads are the goal of the first phase, which should be finished by 2027.
