Why KAFD: Advantages and Opportunities for Businesses (2025)

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, has gone through a significant transformation over the years to maintain its historical role as a vibrant trading hub. This city has a long-fostered history of commerce, culture, and knowledge, even before the discovery of oil. 

Today, Riyadh has become a dynamic centre for business, finance, and innovation, attracting companies from across the region and around the world. At the heart of this growth lies the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD),  a purpose-built financial hub designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses.

Here is why KAFD has evolved into the ideal platform for setting up a business in Riyadh and establishing a brand, positioning it as the hub for growth, networking, and promising opportunities in the Middle East. 

About KAFD

KAFD is an iconic mixed-use development featuring state-of-the-art physical and digital infrastructure, designed by more than 25 world-renowned architects. It is a reputed business and lifestyle destination with 95 towers that are reshaping the Riyadh skyline. 

Spread over an area of 1.6 million sqm, KAFD provides a competitive business ecosystem to the capital of Saudi Arabia. It is the largest global development to achieve LEED Platinum certification.

The KAFD project, initiated as a key component of Vision 2030, focuses on diversifying the economy and reducing dependence on oil. It is home to business leaders and economic powerhouses across the Middle East.

KAFD hosts prominent tenants from across a variety of sectors, especially finance, technology, banking, fintech, media, and real estate. 

Today, KAFD has established itself as the city’s modern financial hub with a strategic framework, fostering innovation and attracting businesses globally. It has over 100 global and regional companies employing over 20,000 professionals.

In terms of economic impact, KAFD has 

• Created thousands of employment opportunities across various sectors

• Established a prime location for companies looking to enter the Saudi market

• Attracted a growing real estate sector of investors globally, increasing FDIs

Why Are Businesses Choosing KAFD in Riyadh? 

Location & Market Advantage

• Strategic Location

KAFD’s location is one of the key reasons why it is renowned as the ideal place to start a business in Riyadh. Situated near major highways and transportation hubs, it provides convenient access for both domestic and international clients. This strategic positioning enables businesses to establish or expand efficiently across the Middle East and beyond. 

Riyadh’s ongoing urban transformation further enhances KAFD’s appeal as a strategic base for multinational corporations. With the expectations of Riyadh’s population to grow in the coming years, KAFD offers a perfect platform for businesses to establish their presence in a rapidly growing business environment.

• Networking Opportunities

Locating within KAFD places businesses in a dynamic ecosystem of financial institutions, multinational corporations, and technology startups. The district hosts regular conferences, workshops, and networking events that foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Such an environment encourages strategic partnerships. For example, between technology firms and financial institutions, driving innovation and strengthening market competitiveness.

• Enhanced Market Access Through Regional Headquarters Policy

Establishing headquarters in KAFD allows companies to leverage Saudi Arabia’s RHQ policy, gaining incentives and regulatory support while tapping into the growing local and regional markets. 

Coupled with KAFD’s strategic location and modern infrastructure, this provides an ideal base for operational efficiency, business growth, and seamless integration across the Middle East. Firms can strengthen their presence, form strategic partnerships, and accelerate regional expansion.

Infrastructure and Innovation

• Innovative Infrastructure

KAFD offers advanced infrastructure incorporating cutting-edge telecommunications and sustainable design. Smart technologies are embedded throughout the district, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and efficiency.

Businesses benefit from high-speed connectivity, energy-efficient buildings, and intelligent transport systems that ensure seamless mobility within the district. This enables companies to maintain operational focus without logistical disruption.

KAFD facilitates seamless integration between commercial, residential, and recreational spaces, providing a holistic environment for employees and their families.

• Innovation and Technology Ecosystem

KAFD is positioning itself as a hub for technology-driven industries, supporting businesses in fintech, artificial intelligence, and sustainable energy. Its infrastructure offers the resources needed to develop, test, and scale innovations efficiently, free from operational limitations. This is another reason why KAFD stands out as one of the go-to choices to establish a new business. 

• Access to Research and Development Facilities

Businesses seeking advanced research capabilities can utilise KAFD’s specialised R&D facilities, which feature high-performance computing systems, AI testing environments, and fintech regulatory sandboxes.

These resources enable companies to refine their technologies while adhering to Saudi regulatory requirements. Opportunities for collaboration with local universities and industry organisations further enhance the potential for innovation.

Government-supported initiatives within KAFD back research-intensive sectors, including blockchain finance, green energy solutions, and automated trading systems, offering financial incentives and structured guidance to help accelerate development.

Business Support and Facilities

• Government Support and Incentives

KAFD provides a growth-oriented environment backed by the Saudi government, offering streamlined regulations and financial incentives such as up to 50% tax relief during the first five years. Startups, in particular, gain access to practical workspaces, mentorship, investors, and specialised facilities, allowing them to test ideas and scale efficiently within a supportive ecosystem.

• Premium Office Space and Business Facilities

KAFD offers Grade A office spaces and workspace solutions from reputed business centres,  with flexible leasing arrangements, making it an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes. They feature: 

1. Smart buildings with high-speed connectivity

2. A range of layouts, from coworking areas to executive suites

3. Access to networking lounges and business centres

• Talent Access

KAFD’s modern living standards, premium residential options, and world-class amenities give businesses easy access to top international and local talent. By providing a vibrant, well-connected environment that combines luxury residences, convenient transport links, and recreational facilities, KAFD helps companies attract and retain highly skilled professionals. Employees benefit from a high quality of life, while businesses gain a competitive edge through a diverse and talented workforce that can drive innovation and growth.

Employee Experience and Sustainability

• Lifestyle Amenities

KAFD combines professional and personal well-being through a variety of lifestyle amenities. Expansive green spaces, cultural venues, and recreational facilities foster a balanced and appealing working environment. These features enhance employee satisfaction and performance, with evidence showing that workplaces designed with well-being in mind can boost productivity, highlighting KAFD’s dedication to supporting a healthy and motivated workforce.

• Commitment to Sustainability

KAFD showcases a strong commitment to environmental responsibility through eco-friendly architecture, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable landscaping. Its LEED-certified buildings set a benchmark for green urban development in the region. 

With the majority of the world now taking sustainability into account when making purchasing decisions, establishing a presence in KAFD allows organisations to align with global environmental standards while contributing positively to Saudi Arabia’s sustainability objectives.

Flexible Workspace Solutions in KAFD at TEC

As KAFD continues to attract global enterprises, startups, and regional headquarters, the demand for flexible, high-quality office solutions has grown significantly. Businesses setting up in Riyadh increasingly seek environments that balance prestige with practicality, spaces that adapt to evolving operational needs while reflecting their corporate identity.

This is where The Executive Centre (TEC) plays a vital role. Located at the heart of King Abdullah Financial District, TEC provides premium flexible workspaces designed to help organisations establish and scale efficiently within Saudi Arabia’s most dynamic business hub.

With private offices, coworking lounges, meeting rooms,  and event spaces, and full-service amenities, TEC provides a sophisticated, tech-enabled environment that caters to the evolving and diverse needs of modern businesses. 

TEC’s modular office solutions, combined with services such as National Address registration, enterprise solutions, mail handling, and administrative support, make it easy for companies to set up, operate efficiently, and scale within KAFD’s dynamic business ecosystem.

Our Services 

Private Offices

• Ideal For: Startups, SMEs, multinational teams

• Benefits: Secure, dedicated workspace with flexibility to scale

• Features: Private entrances, business lounges, barista bars, printing services, high-speed connectivity, branding options, coworking access, meeting rooms, and IT support.

Coworking Lounges

• Ideal For: Freelancers, remote workers, small teams

• Benefits: Collaborative environment with networking opportunities

• Features: Phone booths, business lounges, barista bars, printing services, high-speed connectivity, serviced front desks, meeting rooms & event spaces, ergonomic furniture, and IT support.

Meeting and Conference Rooms

• Ideal For: Team meetings, client presentations

• Benefits: Professional environment for productive discussions

• Features: AV-equipped rooms, flexible layouts and booking options, high-speed internet access, a professional business concierge team, and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment.

Event Spaces

• Ideal For: Workshops, seminars, corporate events

• Benefits: Versatile setting for hosting events and large gatherings

• Features: Large, adaptable spaces with AV support, high-quality infrastructure, prestigious locations, event management, versatile interiors, vintage designer furniture, state-of-the-art connectivity, on-site barista service, and flexible layouts.

National Address Registration

• Ideal For: Companies setting up in KAFD

• Benefits: Compliance with Saudi regulations, easy business setup

• Features: Legal business address services, premium business address, local telephone number, call and mail management, high-speed connectivity, tech community, coworking and meeting rooms access, professional support, flexible membership plans, and multilingual receptionists.

Enterprise Solutions

• Ideal For: Large corporations, multinational enterprises

• Benefits: Tailored solutions to meet complex operational needs, seamless scaling

• Features: Customised office setups, scalable infrastructure, outsourced real estate management, customisable lease terms, fast-track setup and approvals, dedicated single-point real estate support.

Choosing a Workspace Solution in KAFD: Factors to Consider 

How it Works 

1. Choose Your Workspace Solution or Service 

Explore TEC’s range of flexible workspace solutions and setup services to select an option that best fits your business needs.

2. Customise Your Space

Work with our team to tailor your workspace solutions or service as per your branding and specific requirements. 

3. Move In to Your Workspace or Use Our Service

Enjoy a seamless onboarding experience with fully equipped, ready-to-use workspaces and professional services tailored to your business needs.

4. Scale as You Grow

As your business evolves, easily upgrade or expand your workspace within our flexible plans, ensuring long-term efficiency and convenience.

Key Takeaways 

• KAFD is Riyadh’s purpose-built financial hub, combining premium offices, lifestyle amenities, and smart infrastructure.

• A thriving business ecosystem with multinationals, fintech, and tech startups enables networking and partnerships.

• Strategic location and market access allow easy regional expansion and operational efficiency.

• Government-backed support and incentives simplify setup and encourage business growth.

• Flexible, premium workspace solutions via TEC cater to businesses of all sizes.

• Access to top talent and employee-focused amenities enhances productivity and retention.

• Sustainability and innovation underpin KAFD’s modern, future-ready environment.