Drawing inspiration from Al Khobar’s master plan, which is rife with circular and organic forms, this design for a seafront entertainment center blends with the surrounding terrain, creating a man-made, dune-like topography of natural landscaping. It consists of one continuous, submerged project roofed by a perforated canopy, as well as a bespoke promenade above and below it.


The first walkway, a green ribbon, manifests as a high-vegetation passageway designed for pedestrians, cyclists, and small, electric vehicles. Jointly, a mineral ribbon forms a scenic seafront walkway, connecting the theme park, souk, and marina.


The integrated souk concept underneath echoes the area’s traditional market charm, established beneath an urban park roof that bathes the interior with filtered sunlight, turning it into a modern Arabian souk. The entertainment center itself includes a performance area beneath a viewing platform, surrounded by a lush, landscaped area completely open to the sea. Here, the revisited topography creates a promenade experience under a disc-shaped roof with circular openings.


The Al Khobar Entertainment Center offers a respite from city life through its innovative adaptation of space and topography, redefining the anticipated experience of visiting an amusement park.

architecture: nabil gholam architects
3D images: nabil gholam architects