In the heart of western Saudi Arabia, Al Madinah Al Munawwarah (also known as Medina) is quietly redefining what it means to be a modern city with a sacred soul. Long revered as a spiritual destination, it is now emerging as a model of livability and innovation — where heritage, sustainability, and human-centered design coexist.
TPBO sat down with the city region’s mayor, H.E. Eng. Fahad Albuliheshi, to hear how Al Madinah’s transformation aligns with Vision 2030 and extends its relevance to the world stage — from pioneering smart mobility and green infrastructure to creating a city designed for belonging, investment, and well-being. The interview is part of our showcase of Al Madinah as one of our Places to Watch.
Your Excellency, as Al Madinah evolves, how do you see it resonating with a broader global audience – investors, visitors, and future residents alike?
Al Madinah will always be sacred and today, its relevance on the global stage continues to grow. We are showing the world that a city rooted in faith and heritage can also lead in innovation, livability, and sustainability.
For investors, this means a city aligned with Vision 2030, where projects carry both purpose and opportunity — backed by a clear development strategy and a stable foundation of trust.
For visitors and residents, it’s a place designed for well-being, mobility, and belonging. The essence of Al Madinah remains spiritual, but the experience is increasingly defined by comfort, connectivity, and care.
Al Madinah has been recognised internationally – from being highly ranked in the IMD Smart City Index to earning dual ISO certifications. What do these achievements mean in practice?
These recognitions confirm that Al Madinah is moving in step with global standards of excellence. But more importantly, they demonstrate our commitment to people-first development.
But more than the certificates or rankings, what matters is the impact on people’s daily lives. Smart systems and sustainability measures only matter if they improve daily life, and in Al Madinah they do — from safer streets to greener parks and more efficient mobility. In Al Madinah, these changes are already visible, tangible, and deeply felt.
You’ve spoken often about livability. How does this principle translate into the everyday experience of Al Madinah?
Livability here is not an abstract idea. It is walking down a street once dominated by cars and finding it redesigned for people. It is the ability to move across the city by bus, e-bike, or train with ease. It is green corridors that cool our climate and parks that host families.
It is inclusivity — ensuring that every resident and visitor, from children to the visually impaired, can navigate the city with dignity and connection.
From an investor’s point of view, what makes Al Madinah stand out among the world’s emerging cities?
We are not building for size; we are building for significance.
Our projects — from hospitality to knowledge economies — are designed with cultural depth and long-term value.
Investors are drawn to Al Madinah because it offers more than returns: it offers alignment with a city of meaning, a city that will remain relevant for generations.
What are the focus areas you would like international investors to prioritise in Al Madinah?
We welcome investment that strengthens our vision of Al Madinah as a modern, human-centred city. Key opportunities lie in hospitality and tourism — with projects like Rua Al Madinah redefining the visitor experience; in smart infrastructure and mobility, where projects carry both purpose and opportunity; in the knowledge economy, where Knowledge Economic City acts as a catalyst for innovation and skills development; and in green development, from eco-friendly housing to renewable energy.
Health and wellness are also central to our future — not just as sectors, but as guiding principles. Every investment is more than a transaction. It is a partnership in shaping a city where heritage, livability, and opportunity converge.
Looking towards 2030 and beyond, how would you describe the Al Madinah of the future?
By 2030, Al Madinah will be a city where serenity and progress live side by side. A sanctuary that welcomes millions of pilgrims, yes, but also a modern hub of innovation and investment. Our ambition is simple: to be a global model of livability — a place where heritage shapes, rather than limits, the future.
Your Excellency, thank you.
Visit the Al Madinah showcase or explore investment opportunities by connecting with Al Madinah Region Development Authority.
This interview is part of our special series – and publication – on People and Places to Watch across Africa and the Middle East.
