As the sun sets on the 8th Future Investment Initiative (FII8), a renewed momentum pulses through Riyadh. This global gathering of visionaries and investors has made one thing clear: Saudi Arabia is moving decisively into the future, with ambitious strides to lead in smart, sustainable urban development. At the forefront of this transformation is ROSHN, the real estate giant that is reshaping the idea of city living in the Kingdom. Underpinned by the principles of Vision 2030, ROSHN’s developments are more than buildings—they are catalysts for a new way of life, a life that is smarter, greener, and wholly inspired by technology.
Yet, what makes ROSHN stand out in the global race for smart cities? In a world brimming with technology-driven projects, what sets ROSHN apart is the rare advantage of a clean slate—no encumbering legacy systems, no outmoded infrastructure to retrofit. Here, the Kingdom’s ambitions can soar unrestrained, guided by the brightest minds and the latest innovations. “In Saudi Arabia, we have the opportunity to build without legacy limitations, allowing us to deploy advanced technology and innovate continuously,” says Jayesh Maganlal, ROSHN’s group chief information & digital officer. And as the world watches this unprecedented urban experiment unfold, one question lingers: Is this the model for the cities of tomorrow?
Building data-driven communities
ROSHN’s approach to smart cities begins with a foundation as essential as the buildings themselves—data. “Having all your data in a single, quality-controlled place allows us to start strong,” Maganlal explains. From there, AI and IoT systems take the reins, translating data into real-time insights that shape everything from energy efficiency to waste management. But this isn’t just about technology for technology’s sake. It’s about creating communities where the technology is nearly invisible, effortlessly blending into daily life.
Imagine, for instance, a community where waste bins equipped with sensors guide collection routes to maximize efficiency while educating residents through a gamified recycling experience. What could be a mundane task instead becomes an interactive, engaging part of daily life, subtly shaping a sustainable mindset.
So, how far can this data-driven approach take us? As ROSHN’s developments evolve, they are creating a blueprint that could redefine urban living. “We’re building a super app that brings together every service, every piece of information our residents might need. From energy use to community events, it’s all there,” Maganlal adds. It’s not hard to envision a future where the app becomes the pulse of the community, a digital hub connecting residents, services, and sustainable living practices.
Sustainability by design, not by retrofit
In ROSHN’s vision, sustainability is baked into the very DNA of its developments. “We’re not trying to retrofit old systems here. Everything is sustainable by design,” says Maganlal. ROSHN homes come equipped with energy-efficient lighting, solar power options, and smart thermostats, creating a living environment that reduces consumption without compromising comfort.
But ROSHN’s commitment goes beyond energy savings. Its communities are built around green spaces, shaded walkways, and inclusive designs. Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to live in a city that encourages physical movement and social interaction? In ROSHN’s “Living Streets,” residents are not just encouraged to walk—they’re enticed, with spaces that integrate nature, leisure, and social life seamlessly. It’s a holistic vision where technology supports, rather than overshadows, human connections.
This sustainable design ethos extends even to construction materials. Working with the Oil Sustainability Program, ROSHN uses Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer, a sustainable alternative to steel that lowers carbon emissions. Here, every brick, every fiber speaks to a commitment to a cleaner, greener urban future.
“We’re building cities that are as smart as they are sustainable—technology with a human touch.”
Jayesh Maganlal, ROSHN chief information & digital officer
A dynamic investment opportunity
For investors, ROSHN’s smart city developments represent a compelling opportunity. With partners like Cisco, and an extensive CSR program called YUHYEEK, ROSHN demonstrates that its ambitions are rooted not just in technology, but in social impact and community wellbeing. But why does this matter to investors? Because today’s investor doesn’t just seek returns; they seek relevance, legacy, and the chance to be part of something bigger.
What is it, then, that draws these investors? Is it the sheer scale of ROSHN’s vision? The chance to help build communities that redefine the very meaning of ‘smart’? Or is it the freedom to innovate without the weight of outdated infrastructure, a luxury few regions can afford? With each new partnership and each innovative project, ROSHN is making a clear statement: here is a new urban model, and Saudi Arabia is leading the way.
Can you give an example of how ROSHN is using AI to enhance sustainability?
AI is central to our approach. For instance, AI systems help us manage energy usage across developments, and our super app is designed to provide personalized insights to residents. Through this app, residents can access services, monitor their consumption, and even participate in community sustainability programs. It’s all about connecting people with their environment in an intuitive, meaningful way.
Why is Saudi Arabia such an exciting place for tech-driven urban development?
A: Saudi Arabia offers a unique landscape—there’s no outdated infrastructure holding us back. We can start with the latest technologies like AI, IoT, and cloud solutions right from the beginning. This isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about being able to scale and adapt at speeds you can’t achieve in more developed markets.
How does ROSHN ensure that its technologies remain adaptable to future advancements?
Adaptability is built into everything we do. We rely on cloud infrastructure and open standards to make sure we can easily integrate new technologies as they emerge. Our systems are modular, scalable, and designed for rapid deployment. It’s about building for today with a clear view of tomorrow.
As ROSHN pioneers this next chapter in urban development, its communities reflect more than just technological advancements—they embody a future where sustainability and human connection coexist seamlessly. With each new project, ROSHN is not only setting benchmarks but also redefining what it means to live in a smart city. This isn’t just about infrastructure; it’s about creating vibrant, resilient communities that stand as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious vision.
