AMAALA unveils mirage-inspired airport design by Foster + Partners
AMAALA has unveiled plans for a new international airport, with a design inspired by the optical illusion of a desert mirage.
The terminal and control tower design was conceptualised by UK-based architectural and design firm Foster + Partners, while the airport master plan was designed by Egis, an international consultancy and engineering group. It will incorporate unique design practices, drawing inspiration from its location. The airport is due for completion in 2023, and is estimated to accommodate one million travellers per year once it officially opens.
Commenting on the announcement of the new international airport, the Chief Executive Officer of AMAALA, Nicholas Naples, said: “A gateway to AMAALA, visitors will be greeted by personalised experiences from the moment they step off the plane. From design to personalisation, this will be no ordinary airport. Immersed in the spirit of AMAALA, the airport will create an environment that embodies the philosophy of the destination beyond. This will be a unique space that personifies luxury and marks the start of memorable experiences for the world’s most discerning guests. We are delighted to work with Foster + Partners and Egis on this project.”
Senior Executive Partner of Foster + Partners, Gerard Evenden, said, “Responding to the surrounding landscape, the terminal building will form an exclusive gateway to the AMAALA resort. The passenger experience through the entire building will be akin to a private members club – luxurious and relaxing. Focusing on the themes of art, wellbeing and sport, the design seeks to establish a new model for private terminals that provides a seamless experience from resort to aeroplane.”
AMAALA awards construction supervision contract to Saudi Arabian Parsons for Triple Bay project
AMAALA has appointed Saudi Arabian Parsons Limited (Parsons), who, following a competitive tender, was awarded the construction supervision contract. The digitally enabled solutions provider is taking on the role of engineer, supervising the execution of works currently underway across Phase I of Triple Bay.
Binyah, a Saudi Real Estate Infrastructure Company, joins Parsons onsite carrying out the excavation, backfilling, and earthworks required to achieve the formation levels and grading of Phase I of the Triple Bay masterplan.
Nicholas Naples, CEO of AMAALA, said: ‘We are delighted to work with two prestigious firms on a project of this scale. We are very pleased with the progress to date and have welcomed the expertise and experience both Parsons and Binyah have brought to the development of the destination. We celebrated a milestone moment in our history when work on onsite began, and we are looking forward to working closely together to bring our vision for Triple Bay to life. Together we will deliver an ultra-luxury destination for future generations around the globe, nested in the long-term vision of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
AMAALA’s environmental team is guiding Parsons and Binyah on the AMAALA site to oversee all stages of development, ensuring work is being carried out within its sustainability and environmental guidelines.
Ken Murray, managing director of Saudi Arabian Parsons Limited, said: “As an iconic development in the Kingdom, AMAALA is set to become a preeminent destination for travellers from the world over. Parsons is thrilled to join the delivery team, and we look forward to supporting the Triple Bay development and continue our proud participation in the delivery of Vision 2030 for Saudi Arabia.”
Set in the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Nature Reserve across three unique communities, AMAALA will bring to life the desires and ambitions of a community passionate about shaping and living transformative moments. AMAALA’s trio of communities – Triple Bay, The Coastal Development, and The Island – will showcase three different sets of experiences for guests.