The Saudi Organisation for Industrial Estates and Technology (SOIETZ), is developing the 1 million square metre city inside Al-Haer prison, to the south of Riyadh.

It is expected to attract SR2bn ($533m) in investment and will contribute to the training and rehabilitation of inmates.

Infrastructure work will begin before the end of 2008. This will include water, electricity and communications networks.

SOIETZ is also developing the $40bn Sudair industrial city, north of Riyadh. The concept masterplan for the project is expected to be completed in September (MEED 23:3:08).