Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — In a groundbreaking stride toward redefining urban landscapes, ROSHN Group introduced MARAFY – an ambitious mixed-use development in the northern expanse of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. At the heart of this transformative endeavor lies a monumental 11-kilometer-long manmade canal, poised to revolutionize the city's architectural and experiential fabric.

The canal, stretching a remarkable 11 kilometers and spanning a width of 100 meters, stands as the most remarkable feature of the MARAFY development. This canal, a pioneering effort within Saudi Arabia, signifies not only a remarkable engineering accomplishment but also ROSHN's maiden venture into a fully integrated mixed-use project.

MARAFY's manmade canal is poised to create an entirely novel waterfront experience, rivaling the iconic marine landscapes of global metropolises like Chicago, Stockholm, Hamburg, and central London. This aquatic centerpiece is set to breathe new life into Jeddah's historical narrative, merging centuries of trading, travel, and pilgrimage with a contemporary vision of urban connectivity.

David Grover, the Group CEO of ROSHN, affirmed, "MARAFY encapsulates our unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation in the Kingdom. With this awe-inspiring development, we're not just reshaping the skyline but also setting new benchmarks for urban evolution, enhancing the quality of life, and leaving an indelible mark on Jeddah's legacy."

However, MARAFY is more than just an architectural marvel; it's a pioneering concept that fuses nature, commerce, and leisure through the medium of an urban water corridor. The manmade canal is poised to connect residences, communities, and vital amenities, ushering in a new era of community living.

Beyond its conceptual significance, MARAFY's manifold districts encompass world-class residential, retail, lifestyle, leisure, and entertainment spaces, signaling a new dawn for Jeddah's status as a regional hub. This forward-looking project doesn't just cater to the city's contemporary needs; it also pays homage to Jeddah's rich cultural heritage through architectural facades that harmonize historical elements with modern aesthetics.

MARAFY transcends its physical boundaries, symbolizing Jeddah's metamorphosis into a global epicenter while preserving its timeless identity. It's an ode to the past intertwined with the vitality of the present, a harmonious blend of historical charm and cutting-edge vibrancy.

Moreover, MARAFY's vision extends beyond its immediate impact, with an interconnected transport network encompassing water taxis, bus lines, a dedicated Metro Red Line station, and a direct canal link to the King Abdulaziz International Airport. This network binds MARAFY's diverse districts and connects the entire city in an unprecedented manner.

In a world characterized by innovation, MARAFY stands as a testament to the pinnacle of human creativity. As the waters of the manmade canal wind their way through MARAFY's districts, they symbolize a profound shift in the city's narrative – one marked by a harmonious blend of nature and urban life, a new level of connectivity, and a renewed sense of community spirit.