Work on the multibillion-riyal Jabal Omar real estate project in Makkah began yesterday as utility services to existing 580 buildings in the area were cut in preparation to demolish them and erect new residential towers designed to accommodate 34,500 people. The project, which is estimated to cost SR12 billion, is one of the largest schemes aimed at developing areas surrounding the Grand Mosque. Spread on an area of 230,000 square meters, the project includes five-star hotels, commercial centers, and prayer facilities for 200,000 worshippers. The project will have 4,500 shops and 3,000 showrooms, a central transport station and parking facility for 12,000 vehicles.
