Saudi Arabia Railways and Dedicated Housing Company Join Forces to Create URBN Living, a Modern Residential Community that Integrates Housing with Transport: What Travelers Must Know Now

Published on December 15, 2025

Riyadh has become a focal point for urban development in the Middle East, with a new project that reflects Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has partnered with Dedicated Housing Company (DHC) to create a hospitality-inspired residential community in Al Malaz, Riyadh. This forward-thinking development not only supports the city’s transit-oriented development (TOD) but also offers an innovative model for modern, connected living. This move brings together state-of-the-art residential living with cutting-edge transport infrastructure, providing a seamless blend of convenience, connectivity, and quality of life for Riyadh’s growing population.

A Strategic Partnership for Urban Development

The partnership between Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Dedicated Housing Company (DHC) represents a significant step toward meeting the housing needs in Riyadh’s rapidly expanding urban landscape. The new residential community, known as URBN Living, will be strategically located near the East Network railway station and metro lines, offering unparalleled access to Riyadh’s transport networks. This project aims to provide both short-term and long-term housing solutions, making it an attractive option for professionals, business travelers, and intercity commuters.

The URBN Living development will span over 13,000 square meters of prime land and will include more than 450 residential units, offering a range of accommodation types such as fully furnished suites, studio apartments, and shared serviced apartments. Designed with a focus on community-centric living, the development aims to foster social interaction and convenience with a variety of shared amenities such as co-working lounges, fitness areas, shared kitchens, and recreational spaces.

Key Features of URBN Living:

• Location: Adjacent to the East Network railway station and metro lines in Al Malaz, Riyadh.
• Units: Over 450 residential units and more than 1,600 beds, catering to both short-term and long-term stays.
• Accommodation Types: Includes fully furnished suites, studio units, and shared serviced apartments.
• Amenities: Co-working lounges, shared kitchens, fitness areas, and recreational spaces.
• Target Audience: Professionals, business travelers, and intercity commuters.

Transforming Riyadh’s Urban Landscape with TOD

The project’s focus on Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is a strategic decision that aligns perfectly with the city’s long-term vision. TOD is an urban planning concept that promotes sustainable growth by integrating residential areas with efficient public transport networks. By positioning URBN Living near the railway station and metro lines, the development encourages public transportation usage, reduces traffic congestion, and contributes to a more eco-friendly urban environment.

As Riyadh continues to grow rapidly, projects like URBN Living help create vibrant, connected communities that offer convenience and accessibility for both residents and visitors. The development is a key example of how modern urban planning can balance sustainability with livability, meeting the needs of a growing urban population while promoting an efficient and sustainable way of living.

Benefits for Riyadh’s Economy and Community

This new community will not only change the city’s housing landscape but also contribute to economic growth and job creation in the area. The project’s focus on high-quality residential living will likely attract local and international businesses, increasing the demand for services and amenities in the surrounding neighborhoods. Furthermore, the development will create numerous employment opportunities in construction, hospitality, and operations, helping to boost the local economy.

The integration of co-working spaces and shared living arrangements further aligns with the growing trend of remote work and the gig economy. With flexible living options and access to modern facilities, URBN Living is perfectly suited to meet the evolving needs of Riyadh’s workforce.

Timeline and Future Prospects

The URBN Living developments are set to be completed within 36 months, with the first units expected to be ready for occupancy in the coming years. The project is being led by Dedicated Housing Company (DHC), a joint venture between Majd Investment, Sumou Global Investment (SGI), and Strategic Housing Group (SHG). This collaboration combines local expertise with global experience, ensuring the delivery of a high-quality development that meets international standards.

As part of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to transform Riyadh into a global city, this residential community is a significant step toward achieving the nation’s urbanization goals. The integration of modern infrastructure with sustainable housing solutions will play a vital role in Riyadh’s ongoing development, further establishing it as a key player in the global urban landscape.

The Role of Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) in Urban Development

Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), the national entity responsible for the development and operation of intercity railway networks, plays a pivotal role in this project. Established in 2006, SAR has been instrumental in strengthening the country’s transportation and logistics ecosystem. The company’s partnership with DHC is a perfect example of how infrastructure development can align with residential growth to foster more connected communities.

SAR’s commitment to providing sustainable transportation solutions is reflected in the integration of the URBN Living development with Riyadh’s rail and metro systems, ensuring that the community is well-connected to the rest of the city and beyond. By continuing to develop and expand public transport networks, SAR is contributing to Riyadh’s goal of becoming a sustainable and efficient urban center.

Completion Timeline and Project Overview:

• Completion Date: 36 months from the start of development.
• Land Area: 13,000 square meters.
• Units: More than 450 residential units and 1,600 beds.
• Project Type: Hospitality-inspired residential community with a focus on shared living and co-working spaces.
• Development Partners: Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), Dedicated Housing Company (DHC), Majd Investment, Sumou Global Investment (SGI), and Strategic Housing Group (SHG).
• Location: Al Malaz district, Riyadh.

URBN Living: A Model for Sustainable Urban Communities

The URBN Living project is set to serve as a model for the future of residential communities in Saudi Arabia. By combining high-quality design with seamless access to transportation networks, this development promises to transform urban living in Riyadh. The co-working lounges, shared kitchens, and fitness areas all contribute to creating a community-centric environment that is ideal for the modern workforce.

With internationally recognized operational standards, URBN Living is set to be a benchmark for urban living, offering a unique blend of convenience, comfort, and sustainability. As Riyadh continues to grow and evolve, projects like URBN Living will play a key role in shaping the city’s future and making it a more connected, sustainable, and livable urban center.

Conclusion: A Vision for the Future of Riyadh

The URBN Living development in Riyadh is more than just a new residential project. It is a vision for the future of urban living—one that embraces sustainability, connectivity, and community. With the strategic integration of public transport networks and modern living solutions, this development will not only serve as a model for future housing projects in Riyadh but also contribute to the economic growth and sustainable development of the city.

As part of the ongoing efforts to meet the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, URBN Living exemplifies how thoughtful, sustainable urban planning can help create thriving communities while also addressing the housing demands of a rapidly growing population. The development of this hospitality-inspired residential community will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping Riyadh’s future as a global city.