The Wadi Hanifa Urban Code builds upon the Historic Diriyah ‎Development Program and the Environmental Rehabilitation Program for Wadi Hanifa and its Tributaries, both planned and implemented by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City. This latter program prioritized the preservation and rehabilitation of Wadi Hanifah (Hanifah Valley) owing to its strategic location, investment potential, and capacity to function as urban lungs for the city. Additionally, it serves as an urban oasis, contributing to an overall enhancement of the quality of life in Riyadh in line with the Saudi Vision 2030.

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Based on these remarkable efforts, the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) completed the Wadi Hanifa Urban Code and all relevant procedures in cooperation with the Riyadh Municipality and Diriyah Gate Development Authority.

The new code covers the Wadi Hanifah valley area, its tributaries, and the lands overlooking it and seeks to elevate the built areas and achieve optimal balance among people, buildings, and environment

Unique Urban Identity

The Urban Code governs the urban character and building façades, offering adaptable choices that instill a unique architectural identity in harmony with the natural surroundings and historical legacy, particularly in Diriyah and its environs. Additionally, the Urban Code plays a key role in shaping urban patterns that significantly impact the quality of life. It further reinforces the local identity by integrating the “inner courtyard” design, distinguished for its focus on privacy, optimal use of internal spaces, and adaptation to the local climate.

The Urban Code is characterized by its considerable flexibility, offering landowners with a spectrum of design styles to meet diverse preferences. Restrictions are specifically directed towards preventing the incorporation of colors and elements that are incongruent with the area to maximize design efficiency, foster urban and visual harmony, and meet the unique needs and preferences of the residents.

Ambitious Galos

The Wadi Hanifa Urban Code has ambitious goals for the Wadi Hanifa area and the wider capital including:

• Advancing urban design standards to boost the efficiency and economic allure of the city and its investment climate.
• Supporting the housing sector by introducing new, cost-effective housing styles.
• Improving pedestrian pathways within residential neighborhoods to foster accessibility and community connectivity.
• Focusing on sustainable and energy-efficient urban structures.

Detailed Application Guides

RCRC and its partners have trained all service providers on the manuals of the Urban Code to ensure the best service for the residents of the area. Also, the RCRC has developed online Application Guides to help stakeholders and specialists understand the Urban Code and its requirements.