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Architects: DLR Group Middle East
Lead Architect: Scott Pryde
Client: Alawi Red Sea Markets Company Limited

Nestled in the bountiful region of Abha, The Point, a 20-acre mixed-used destination, embodies the essence and history of the capital city. Red Sea Markets, in collaboration with DLR Group, spearheaded this project to bolster tourism and the local economy. DLR Group's design celebrates a contemporary indoor-outdoor experience comprising 40,000 square meters of retail, food and beverage, and entertainment. It also houses a 150-key Canopy by Hilton lifestyle hotel, a 100-key resort-style Hilton Residences, a medical clinic, and a hypermarket.

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 space, 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. 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. 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, and promising an unforgettable journey for all who cross its threshold.

The new development prioritizes sustainability and energy conservation through various strategies aimed at optimizing the project's commitment to green the city, promoting active lifestyles, and reducing environmental impact. This includes the allocation of south-facing solar panels on inaccessible and non-visible roofs to maximize sun exposure, the use of local flora to minimize landscape maintenance and water usage, the implementation of double walls with thermal insulation for reduced utility costs, and the installation of south-facing louvered canopies to shield façades from UV exposure. The project also incorporates reflective double-glazing to provide thermal insulation and noise reduction, particularly benefiting residential and hospitality units near active plazas and events spaces.