Knowledge Economic City Highlights Retail-Led Mixed-Use Growth in Madinah at RLC Global Forum 2026

Knowledge Economic City (KEC) is showcasing its role in advancing retail-led mixed-use destination development in Madinah at RLC Global Forum 2026, positioning KEC as a platform for lifestyle, commercial and retail growth in one of the Kingdom’s fastest-evolving urban markets. By integrating retail with hospitality, mobility, culture, and community infrastructure, KEC is enabling long-term investment, strong footfall fundamentals, and sustainable growth, supporting Madinah’s evolution into a world-class destination where faith, culture, and modern city living converge.

Operating under the supervision of the Economic Cities and Special Zones Authority (ECZA), KEC is delivering a 6.8 million sqm masterplan designed to serve over 200,000 residents and welcome millions of visitors annually, strengthening Madinah’s position as a high-potential market for structured retail expansion.

At the core of KEC’s strategy are key developments shaping  shopping, dining and lifestyle in the Holy City:

- Multaqa Almadinah: Madinah’s first lifestyle mall, directly connected to the boulevard, Hilton Hotel, and Hilton Residences, creating a fully integrated environment where retail, hospitality and community experiences intersect across a Gross Leasable Area (GLA) of 71,000 sqm. Designed for residents and visitors, it is set to redefine shopping and family entertainment featuring a curated mix of international and regional retailers, entertainment, and lifestyle. With a projected investment of SAR 2.2 billion, this destination positions KEC as a magnet for both local and regional tourism.

- Madinah Gate: the Kingdom’s first Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), integrated with Haramain High-Speed Railway Station. Phase one delivers a GLA of 22,750 sqm of retail, dining and leisure. The mall includes a DoubleTree by Hilton and a dedicated bus and taxi terminal, activating transit-led economic activity through SAR 600 million in investment.

- Islamic World District: Spanning 980,000 sqm, this cultural destination captures the spiritual and historic richness of Madinah and targets over 14,000 hotel rooms across 3- to 5-stars categories. It has attracted leading global operators including Hilton, Marriott, Radisson, and Aston, with architecture reflecting the diversity of the Islamic World. 

KEC plans to deliver more than 11,000 hotel keys in upcoming phases, with a long-term ambition to reach 20,000 keys by 2030, building a diversified hospitality portfolio that supports tourism growth, quality of life, and investment expansion.

“Knowledge Economic City represents a new generation of urban development in Saudi Arabia, where long-term economic ambition is closely linked to livability, investment, and cultural relevance,” said Panos Linardos, Chairman of the RLC Global Forum. “As the Kingdom continues to advance new models of urban and economic development, our partnership with Knowledge Economic City is focused on how large-scale destinations can support long-term growth, attract investment, and remain relevant to future generations.”

Commenting on KEC’s role in Madinah’s transformation, Hazem Elbanna, Acting CEO of Knowledge Economic City, added: Through our flagship projects, Multaqa Almadinah and Madinah Gate, we are attracting world-class experiences, enhancing quality of life, and reinforcing Madinah’s role as both a spiritual and economic hub.”

During RLC Global Forum 2026, KEC will highlight this approach through the session “Mixed Use Developments of the Two Holy Cities”, examining how retail, hospitality, mobility, and services can form a seamless ecosystem that enhances the pilgrim and visitor experience while unlocking long-term value for investors and operators.

KEC reaffirms its commitment to shaping Madinah’s next chapter, creating integrated destinations that connect people, commerce and culture. With leasing opportunities now available, KEC welcomes retail brands and partners to be part of this new era of Madinah’s urban and commercial development.