The King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) announced in a press release on Sunday that it was awarded a Guinness World Record for the world’s largest continuous pedestrian skyway network.
This recognition showcases KAFD’s commitment to setting new benchmarks in urban development and its commitment to creating a sustainable urban destination.
With its sleek and modern architecture and network spanning 15.46 km, KAFD’s skywalks connect the district’s 95 buildings through 42 interconnected climate-controlled skywalks, enabling year-round pedestrian access.
Elevated above ground level and with direct access to Riyadh’s metro network, the skywalks enable workers, visitors, and residents to seamlessly navigate KAFD and enjoy panoramic views of its iconic architecture, without worrying about traffic, parking, or the weather, said the release.
With 30,000 sqm of glass—the equivalent of four FIFA football pitches—and over 3,000 tons of steel used in their construction—equal to the combined weight of 10 Boeing 777s—the skywalks represent a significant engineering feat.
More than five million safe man-hours, involving 1,200 personnel, were required to deliver this project.
The skywalks reflect KAFD’s ambition to rethink how people move through and experience the city, making it easier to walk comfortably between work, home, and leisure.
They connect a vibrant mix of offices, homes, retailers, restaurants, and entertainment, all designed to offer a more convenient and enjoyable daily experience.
"This recognition by Guinness World Records affirms KAFD as a national platform for transformative urban development,” said Chief Asset Delivery Officer at KAFD DMC Faddy AlAql.
“Beyond its scale, the skywalk network reflects a future-focused mobility strategy—seamlessly connecting assets, enhancing walkability, and supporting our ambition to deliver a world-class smart city experience."
Guinness World Records Official Adjudicator Mbali Nkosi stated: "First set in Minneapolis in 2016, this record has now been redefined by KAFD. In an era where sustainability drives innovation, KAFD’s skyway network sets a new global benchmark for walkable urban design. Guinness World Records celebrates this achievement as a bold step toward smarter, more connected cities. The certificate presentation on 6 July will commemorate this achievement."
"KAFD’s world-class infrastructure continues to attract leading global companies. The district is home to more than 90 international and local companies, as well as 19 regional headquarters, including Goldman Sachs, Bain & Company, and PepsiCo," according to the release.
