Abha Mixed-Use development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Multistory buildings around central green courtyard

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New Mixed-Use District, The Point, to Arrive in Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

(DUBAI, February 13, 2024) – Nestled in the bountiful region of Abha, The Point, a new mixed-use destination set to benchmark retail, dining, entertainment, and hospitality, captures the essence and history of Asir. Construction of The Point is underway and is expected to be finished by summer 2026.

Multiple men wearing white robes and colorful scarves at a ground breaking holding gold shovels digging into a box of sand

In line with the region’s efforts to promote tourism, diversify economic capabilities, and enhance quality of life, Red Sea Markets partnered with DLR Group to craft a memorable lifestyle and shopping destination that caters to locals and visitors alike.

The new mixed-use development will span approximately 20 acres, comprising 59,000 SM of retail, food and beverage, entertainment, a Canopy by Hilton hotel, a Hilton Residences, a medical clinic, a youth center, a hypermarket, and 1,600+ parking spaces to accommodate the different uses. DLR Group provided planning, project management, architecture, and interior design services as the lead consultant.

Upper level of outdoor shopping center with pathway down, seen in the evening. Multiple planters and green roofs along path

Aerial view of the campus plan built into a hill with rounded central courtyard lined with canopies, midrise buildings to left

DLR Group’s design celebrates a contemporary indoor-outdoor experience elevating boutique retail, vibrant street shopping, lifestyle-focused dining, and hospitality with entertainment uses. By embracing the city’s identity, The Point seamlessly intertwines tradition with the contemporary aspects of modern living, fostering an atmosphere that radiates with energy, promising an unforgettable journey for all who cross its threshold.”

Scott Pryde, RIBA ARB Principal, Middle East Design Director

The Point’s overall planning concept revolves around centrality, a widely embraced approach in the region that prioritizes community-centered planning. This approach celebrates the significance of vibrant central spaces and courtyards, serving as focal points for gatherings and celebrations.

The design incorporates large plazas, a covered atrium, and open parks at different elevations, aiming to offer intimate and awe-inspiring moments with views of the city center while providing a distinctive shopping and entertainment experience. Additionally, the sloping site character enabled the design approach of the contextual plan and massing to resonate with Abha’s historical planning and building strategies.

Prioritizing sustainability and energy conservation, various strategies were implemented aimed to optimize the project’s commitment to green the city, promote active lifestyles, and reduce environmental impact.

Rooted in the Abha’s local identity, the design aesthetic pays homage to the rich character of the region. Natural elements such as mud and wood form the architectural foundation, and indigenous geometric forms and vibrant hues thread their way through the interiors, textiles, and accent details, creating a symphony of art and culture throughout the development.

At its core, a grand central public space, anchored by a ceremonial entrance, is the epicenter of the development featuring dynamic water elements and an outdoor amphitheater. Surrounding patios and terraces offer unobstructed vistas of the central entertainment area, creating a harmonious synergy of space and experience. The site’s significant elevation changes provide the canvas for tiered terrace levels, gracefully deconstructing the scale of the development while affording sweeping panorama views within the project and towards the mountains beyond.

When designing The Point, we envisioned places that would tell unique stories of Abha's rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes around every corner. The properties are much more than structures; they are living narratives, offering an immersive experience that captures the essence of this remarkable region. Visitors are invited to embark on a sensory journey and step into a world where design meets heritage and each moment becomes a celebration of Abha's unique charm.”

Henrique Dias, Intl. Assoc. AIA Principal, Middle East Hospitality Director

Hotel room rendering with colorful artwork, modern rug and furniture

Hotel bathroom with gold accents, round mirrors, green wall and beige and white geometric tile

Rendering of hotel lobby with white drapes, light wood staircase, grey beams, and wall of artwork

Rendering of a hotel cafe with green and white geometric flooring, brown basket lighting and tables and chairs with striped pillows

Overlooking the vibrant mixed-use destination, the new Canopy by Hilton The Point beckons travelers, wanders, and collectors seeking an immersive experience and a unique perspective of the remarkable region where the rich history, local traditions, and natural beauty of Abha are celebrated at every turn. Drawing inspiration from its surroundings, this 150-key, 14,000-SM property features locally inspired color palette, unique art, dynamic patterns, and the use of natural materials. Throughout the hotel, a rich, warm reddish-brown hue accentuates the neutral palette, infusing touches of color authentic of the area’s vibrant culture. Guestrooms capture the essence of the stunning mountainous landscape layering textures and a carefully curated array of colors. The property will feature a ballroom, meeting rooms, boardrooms, and lounge is well-positioned for large-scale leisure and business events including an informal Majlis for the community to host special social events.

Hotel room featuring modern furnishings with white linens, glass closets, and view of large windows with drapes

Hotel lounge with modern tree artwork, game tables, seating areas, and colorful pillows

A beautifully designed hotel lobby with elegant furnishings and a welcoming atmosphere. A centerpiece light fixture cascading down from the ceiling, green live plants decorate the lobby.

Hotel restaurant featuring tables with white linens, large trees, and wooden furnishings

Adjacent to Canopy by Hilton The Point is the new Hilton The Point Residences featuring apartments for extended-stay guests. DLR Group’s modern, elegant, and curated design approach transcends a rocky garden capturing the essence of Abha while crafting a luxurious, serene living experience. A neutral base flourishes when layered with touches of nature-inspired accents and architectural elements of warm woods, soft jacaranda hues and verdant textiles, and bountiful flora. The 21,000-SM property features a main lobby with café lounge, an all-day destination offering Italian cuisine, a dedicated kids club for toddlers up to teenagers, and a total of 100 keys making up the apartment levels, including 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom units. Shared amenities between the two properties include an indoor pool, fitness center, multiple dining experiences, and a children’s pool and kids club.

The Aseer region is rich with culture, inspiration, and never-ending discoveries, so harnessing this resource and turning it into a lively destination has been an unforgettable experience. In close collaboration with Hilton, we delivered a playful and bold lifestyle destination for Canopy and more of a refined experience for the Residences. Each motif, material, and texture were carefully selected by the team to both reflect and honor the region, with custom patterns added to key touch points to celebrate rich cultural roots of human crafts.”

Vaida Buchrotaite Principal, Middle East Interior Design Director

The Point has also been recognized for several industry awards, including Commercial Interior Design’s 2023 Best Hotel Design Concept, International Council of Shopping Centers’ 2023 Gold: Evolving Innovation & Aspiration design award and more.