Saudi Arabia’s KAFD Bags Guinness Record for World’s Largest Skywalk Network

15.4km climate-controlled walkway connects 95 buildings, boosts Riyadh’s sustainability goals

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in Riyadh has been awarded a Guinness World Record for constructing the world’s largest continuous pedestrian skywalk network, a landmark achievement underscoring Saudi Arabia’s growing leadership in sustainable urban design.

Spanning 15.46 kilometers and connecting 95 buildings, the air-conditioned skywalk system allows pedestrians to move seamlessly across the district year-round, significantly reducing reliance on private vehicles and cutting carbon emissions.

Faddy Al-Aql, KAFD’s chief asset delivery officer, described the project as “a tube that connects all the parcels,” inspired by traditional Najdi architecture.

He noted that the elevated network, equipped with 30,000 square meters of glass and over 3,000 tonnes of steel, required more than five million safe work hours by 1,200 personnel.

Linked directly to Riyadh’s metro system, the skywalk network embodies KAFD’s mobility strategy and supports Vision 2030’s urban sustainability objectives. “This recognition affirms KAFD as a platform for urban innovation,” Al-Aql said, adding that the project enhances walkability and contributes to a smart city experience.

Guinness adjudicator Mbali Nkosi commended the achievement, noting that it surpassed the previous record held by Minneapolis since 2016. “In an era where sustainability drives innovation, KAFD’s skyway network sets a new benchmark for walkable urban design,” she said.

KAFD’s broader environmental program aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Net Zero 2060 target and the Public Investment Fund’s Net Zero 2050 vision.

The district has achieved LEED Neighborhood Development Platinum certification, with over 40 buildings LEED-certified for high standards in energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable materials.

Solar panels have been installed on select rooftops to further cut emissions, while water conservation initiatives include low-flow fixtures and advanced irrigation systems using drip and micro-sprinkler technologies.

A planned reverse osmosis facility will recycle treated water for central cooling and landscaping, minimizing waste and closing the water loop.

Mazroua Al-Mazroua, KAFD’s chief marketing and experience officer, emphasized the project’s practical benefits.

“Riyadh’s climate makes this network essential — it allows people to move comfortably between offices, residences, and entertainment spaces, reinforcing our vision of a connected, livable city,” he said.

The district’s sustainability governance integrates 12 UN Sustainable Development Goals and aligns with international frameworks, including the UN Global Compact and LEED reporting standards, ensuring transparency and long-term accountability across its environmental programs.

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