Saudi Arabia Glass Curtain Wall Market By System Type (Unitized, Stick), By End Use (Commercial, Public, Residential), By Region, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Saudi Arabia Glass Curtain Wall Market was valued at USD 3.42 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach at USD 5.24 Billion in 2030 and project robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 7.2% through 2030. The Saudi Arabia glass curtain wall market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the rapid expansion of commercial and residential skyscrapers, increasing investments in infrastructure, and a strong push for energy-efficient building solutions. With Vision 2030 emphasizing urban transformation and sustainable construction, the demand for modern architectural facades is rising, particularly in key cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and NEOM. The growing preference for high-performance glass curtain walls is fueled by their ability to enhance energy efficiency, reduce cooling costs, and improve building aesthetics. Technological advancements, such as double-glazed and smart glass solutions, are further propelling market expansion by optimizing thermal insulation and light management.

Additionally, government initiatives promoting green building standards and LEED-certified structures have encouraged developers to integrate advanced glazing systems. The commercial real estate sector, particularly office spaces, hotels, and mixed-use developments, remains the primary driver of demand, with iconic projects such as the Jeddah Tower and King Abdullah Financial District incorporating state-of-the-art curtain wall systems. Moreover, Saudi Arabia’s extreme climate conditions necessitate durable and high-performance curtain wall solutions that offer protection against heat and sandstorms. As real estate and infrastructure projects continue to rise, the glass curtain wall market is poised for long-term growth, attracting both domestic and international suppliers.

Key Market Drivers

Rapid Urbanization and Population Growth

Saudi Arabia is experiencing rapid urbanization, with its urban population projected to reach approximately 87% by 2030, up from 83% in 2020, driven by a growing population that stood at 35.2 million in 2023 and is expected to increase steadily. This demographic shift fuels demand for modern infrastructure, including residential and commercial buildings that utilize glass curtain walls for their aesthetic appeal and functionality. The Kingdom’s cities, such as Riyadh and Jeddah, are expanding at an unprecedented rate, with Riyadh’s population alone surpassing 7.5 million in 2023. This urban sprawl necessitates high-rise constructions, where glass curtain walls are favored for their lightweight structure and ability to maximize natural light, reducing energy costs by up to 20% in well-designed buildings. The government’s push for smart cities, coupled with a construction boom—evidenced by over 300,000 new housing units planned by 2025—further amplifies the need for advanced facade systems. Glass curtain walls, offering both thermal efficiency and modern design, align perfectly with these urban development goals, making them a critical component in meeting the housing and commercial space demands of a population growing at an annual rate of 1.5%.

Vision 2030 and Mega Infrastructure Projects

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative is a transformative driver for the glass curtain wall market, channeling investments exceeding $1 trillion into mega projects like NEOM, Qiddiya, and the Red Sea Project. These developments, aiming to diversify the economy, prioritize cutting-edge architecture, with glass curtain walls integral to over 60% of planned commercial structures due to their energy efficiency and sleek design. NEOM alone, a $500 billion futuristic city, targets completion of its first phase by 2025, incorporating sustainable building materials that reduce cooling costs by 30% in the desert climate. The Kingdom has allocated $65 billion for infrastructure in 2025, with a significant portion directed toward high-rise buildings and tourism facilities that favor glass facades. In 2023, the construction sector contributed 6.1% to GDP, a figure expected to rise as projects accelerate, driving demand for glass curtain walls to meet the aesthetic and functional needs of these ambitious developments.

Rising Demand for Modern Aesthetics in Architecture

The architectural landscape of Saudi Arabia is evolving, with a 70% increase in demand for contemporary designs in commercial and residential projects since 2020, driven by a cultural shift toward globalized aesthetics. Glass curtain walls, used in 55% of new high-rise buildings in 2023, provide the sleek, transparent look favored by developers, enhancing property values by up to 10% in premium markets like Riyadh Season zones. The Kingdom’s tourism sector, targeting 100 million visitors annually by 2030, relies on visually striking structures—hotels and malls with glass facades saw a 25% uptick in construction permits in 2024. This aesthetic preference, combined with the ability to cover large surface areas (averaging 5,000 square meters per major project), positions glass curtain walls as a staple in modern Saudi architecture, reflecting both luxury and innovation.

Growth in Commercial and Retail Sector

The commercial and retail sector in Saudi Arabia is expanding rapidly, with retail space projected to grow by 1.5 million square annual increase in consumer spending, reaching $130 billion in 2023. meters by 2025, driven by a 7% Glass curtain walls are a preferred choice for over 65% of new malls and office buildings, offering natural lighting that reduces electricity costs by 15% and enhances shopper experience, boosting foot traffic by 20% in well-lit spaces. Major cities like Dammam and Jeddah added 300,000 square meters of commercial space in 2024, with 80% featuring glass facades. The sector’s growth, tied to Vision 2030’s economic diversification, supports a construction pipeline of 150 new commercial projects by 2025, cementing glass curtain walls as essential for meeting both functional and market-driven demands.

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Key Market Challenges

High Initial Investment and Maintenance Costs

The implementation of glass curtain walls in Saudi Arabia requires significant upfront investment due to the cost of high-quality glazing materials, structural framing, and installation. Advanced technologies such as double-glazed, low-emissivity (Low-E) glass and photovoltaic (PV) glass further increase expenses. Additionally, maintenance costs are substantial, especially in the Kingdom’s harsh climate, where frequent sandstorms and extreme temperatures require regular cleaning and upkeep. Unlike traditional facades, glass curtain walls demand specialized maintenance techniques to prevent discoloration, degradation, and thermal inefficiencies over time. Many building owners and developers, particularly in smaller commercial projects, hesitate to adopt these systems due to long-term operational costs. Moreover, fluctuations in global raw material prices and supply chain disruptions can lead to increased project expenses, making it challenging for developers to achieve cost-efficiency without compromising quality and sustainability.

Climate and Energy Efficiency Concerns

Saudi Arabia's extreme climate poses a significant challenge for glass curtain wall systems, as they must withstand high temperatures that frequently exceed 50°C during peak summer months. Poorly designed curtain walls can result in excessive heat gain, leading to higher energy consumption for cooling. While modern glazing technologies such as Low-E coatings and insulated glass units (IGUs) help mitigate this issue, they add to overall costs. Additionally, achieving optimal thermal insulation and solar control without compromising natural lighting remains a challenge. Developers and architects must carefully balance design aesthetics with energy efficiency to comply with Saudi Arabia’s growing focus on green building regulations. Failure to address these challenges can result in buildings with inefficient cooling systems, higher carbon footprints, and increased operational costs, impacting long-term sustainability and economic viability.

Skilled Labor Shortages and Technical Expertise

The glass curtain wall industry in Saudi Arabia faces a shortage of highly skilled labor and technical expertise, particularly in the fabrication, installation, and maintenance of advanced façade systems. Precision engineering is required to ensure structural integrity, weather resistance, and thermal efficiency, but the availability of specialized professionals remains limited. Many companies rely on foreign expertise, increasing costs and extending project timelines. Additionally, improper installation or inadequate quality control can lead to air leakage, water infiltration, and structural failures, negatively affecting building performance. The lack of local workforce development programs and training initiatives in façade engineering further exacerbates the challenge. Addressing this issue requires investment in technical education, collaboration with international experts, and the development of standardized training programs to enhance local capabilities in the glass curtain wall sector.

Key Market Trends

Rising Demand for Energy-Efficient and Smart Glass Solutions

With Saudi Arabia’s strong push toward sustainability under Vision 2030, there is an increasing demand for energy-efficient glass curtain walls that reduce energy consumption and enhance building performance. Developers are integrating advanced glazing solutions such as double-glazed, low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, and solar-control coatings to minimize heat gain while maximizing natural lighting. Additionally, the adoption of smart glass technologies, including electrochromic and thermochromic glass, is gaining traction as they allow for automatic tinting based on sunlight exposure, improving energy efficiency in high-rise commercial and residential buildings. The government’s green building initiatives and LEED certification requirements are further accelerating the shift towards sustainable glass façade solutions. As a result, the market is seeing significant investments in high-performance curtain wall systems that contribute to reducing carbon footprints and operational costs. 

Growth in High-Rise and Mixed-Use Developments

The rapid urbanization and infrastructure boom in major cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and NEOM are fueling the demand for glass curtain walls in high-rise and mixed-use developments. With projects like the Jeddah Tower—set to be the world's tallest building—developers are focusing on iconic skyscrapers that require modern, durable, and aesthetically appealing glass facades. Mixed-use developments, which combine residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces, are also on the rise, increasing the need for versatile curtain wall systems that offer both functionality and design flexibility. As Saudi Arabia continues to attract international businesses and tourists, the market for premium-grade curtain walls in landmark structures is expected to expand, positioning glass facades as an essential feature in the country’s evolving skyline. 

Increased Investment in Local Manufacturing and Supply Chain Development

To reduce dependency on imports and mitigate supply chain disruptions, Saudi Arabia is witnessing increased investments in local manufacturing of glass curtain wall components. Government-backed initiatives are encouraging domestic production of high-quality glass, aluminum frames, and structural sealants, aligning with the broader goal of industrial localization. This shift is expected to enhance cost efficiency, shorten lead times, and improve product customization options for developers. Additionally, with fluctuating global raw material prices, having a robust local supply chain ensures greater market stability and competitiveness. The establishment of state-of-the-art glass processing facilities within the Kingdom will not only support the construction sector but also position Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for high-performance glass and façade solutions. 

Adoption of Advanced Installation Techniques and Prefabricated Systems

The Saudi Arabian glass curtain wall market is experiencing a shift towards advanced installation techniques and prefabricated façade systems to enhance efficiency, reduce construction timelines, and ensure precision engineering. Prefabricated curtain wall units, which are manufactured off-site and assembled on-site, are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to improve quality control and minimize project delays. Additionally, innovations such as unitized curtain wall systems, which require less labor-intensive installation, are gaining traction, addressing challenges related to workforce shortages. The integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) in façade design is also transforming the industry by optimizing structural planning and ensuring seamless coordination between developers, architects, and engineers. As technology-driven construction methods continue to evolve, the adoption of prefabricated and modular curtain wall solutions is expected to accelerate, driving overall market growth and efficiency.

Segmental Insights

System Type Insights

The unitized glass curtain wall segment dominated the Saudi Arabia glass curtain wall market in 2024 and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period due to its efficiency, rapid installation, and superior performance in extreme climatic conditions. Unlike stick-built systems, unitized curtain walls are prefabricated in factory-controlled environments, ensuring higher precision, better quality control, and reduced on-site labor requirements. This is particularly advantageous in Saudi Arabia, where high-rise developments and large-scale infrastructure projects demand accelerated construction timelines to meet tight deadlines. The increasing number of mega-projects, including NEOM, the Red Sea Project, and the Jeddah Tower, has significantly boosted the demand for unitized curtain walls, as developers seek façade solutions that provide seamless integration, enhanced energy efficiency, and modern aesthetics. These systems significantly reduce air and water infiltration, a crucial factor in Saudi Arabia’s harsh climate, where extreme temperatures and frequent sandstorms pose challenges for building exteriors. The superior thermal insulation offered by unitized curtain walls contributes to energy savings of up to 30 percent, aligning with the Kingdom’s sustainability goals under Vision 2030. The growing adoption of prefabricated construction techniques further strengthens the demand for unitized systems, as they minimize material wastage and ensure faster project completion. With urban transformation underway, particularly in cities such as Riyadh and Jeddah, commercial skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and mixed-use developments are increasingly favoring unitized glass curtain walls for their durability, sleek design, and ability to support high-performance glazing options such as double-glazed, low-emissivity glass, and photovoltaic glass. Additionally, as Saudi Arabia continues to attract foreign direct investment and positions itself as a regional business hub, the demand for premium office spaces with advanced façade systems further reinforces the dominance of the unitized segment. While stick-built curtain walls remain relevant for smaller projects due to their cost-effectiveness and on-site flexibility, the preference for unitized curtain walls in high-end and large-scale developments is projected to persist, ensuring their sustained leadership in the market over the coming years.

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Regional Insights

Largest Region

Riyadh dominated the Saudi Arabia glass curtain wall market in 2024 and is expected to maintain its dominance during the forecast period due to its status as the economic, political, and commercial hub of the Kingdom. As the capital city, Riyadh is experiencing unprecedented urban development, driven by Vision 2030’s initiatives aimed at transforming it into a global metropolis. Large-scale infrastructure projects, including the King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh Metro, and Diriyah Gate, have fueled demand for modern and energy-efficient architectural solutions, with glass curtain walls playing a central role in enhancing building aesthetics, sustainability, and thermal performance. The city is also a prime location for corporate headquarters, government institutions, and high-end residential developments, all of which prioritize advanced façade systems for energy efficiency and visual appeal. Additionally, Riyadh’s commercial real estate sector is booming, with new skyscrapers, office spaces, and luxury hotels increasingly integrating high-performance glazing solutions such as double-glazed and low-emissivity glass curtain walls to reduce energy consumption and improve indoor comfort. The demand is further bolstered by Saudi Arabia’s efforts to attract foreign direct investment, with Riyadh emerging as a key destination for international companies setting up regional headquarters under the Regional Headquarters Program. The city’s rapid population growth and high disposable income levels are also driving the expansion of premium retail centers, malls, and entertainment complexes, all of which rely on modern glass façade systems for a sophisticated urban appeal. With government-backed smart city projects such as Riyadh Green and the expansion of King Khalid International Airport emphasizing sustainability and energy efficiency, the adoption of glass curtain walls is expected to rise. Riyadh’s favorable business environment, strong construction pipeline, and commitment to green building practices will continue to drive the market, ensuring its sustained dominance in the glass curtain wall sector over the coming years. While other cities like Jeddah and NEOM are experiencing rapid growth, Riyadh’s extensive commercial and infrastructural developments, coupled with its strategic importance, solidify its position as the leading market for glass curtain walls in Saudi Arabia.

Emerging Region

The Tabuk region, driven by the development of NEOM, is the emerging market for glass curtain walls in Saudi Arabia in 2024 and is expected to maintain its growth during the forecast period. As a centerpiece of Saudi Vision 2030, NEOM is a $500 billion futuristic city that prioritizes sustainability, cutting-edge infrastructure, and advanced technology, making it a prime driver for high-performance glass curtain walls. The project’s emphasis on eco-friendly and energy-efficient buildings has significantly increased demand for modern façade solutions, particularly double-glazed, low-emissivity, and photovoltaic glass, which enhance thermal insulation, natural lighting, and solar energy utilization. With landmark developments such as The Line, Oxagon, and Trojena incorporating expansive glass structures, the demand for innovative curtain wall systems is expected to rise substantially. The city’s commitment to renewable energy and carbon neutrality is accelerating the adoption of smart glass technologies that dynamically adjust light and heat transmission, reducing energy consumption by up to 30 percent in commercial and residential buildings. As a high-tech economic hub, NEOM is attracting multinational corporations, research institutions, and technology firms, leading to increased demand for premium commercial office spaces, luxury hotels, and mixed-use developments, all of which require sophisticated glass curtain wall systems. Additionally, large-scale tourism and entertainment projects, including the Trojena ski resort and Sindalah Island’s luxury destinations, are contributing to the widespread use of glass façade systems that offer panoramic views, energy efficiency, and structural resilience. The region’s rapid urbanization and government-backed incentives for foreign investment are accelerating construction activities, fostering the adoption of unitized and modular curtain wall systems for faster project execution. Furthermore, NEOM’s strategic location along the Red Sea and its investment in local manufacturing capabilities are expected to strengthen the domestic supply chain for high-performance glass materials, reducing reliance on imports and ensuring cost-effective project completion. While Riyadh and Jeddah continue to dominate the overall glass curtain wall sector, Tabuk’s rapid transformation through NEOM positions it as the fastest-growing region in the market, redefining Saudi Arabia’s architectural landscape and solidifying its long-term emergence as a key player in the industry.

Recent Developments

• In April 2025, AGC Inc. has developed an advanced chemical absorption solution for Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology, significantly improving CO₂ capture efficiency. Using polypropylene glycol instead of conventional aqueous solutions, it reduces energy consumption and evaporation loss. A demonstration is scheduled at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai. AGC is also exploring applications in factory emissions and Cryo-DAC technology. This innovation aligns with AGC’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.
• In March 2025, ORIX Group and AGC Inc. have launched Japan’s first horizontal recycling initiative for window glass, reducing industrial waste and reliance on virgin raw materials. This system repurposes waste glass from condominiums into new flat architectural glass, lowering greenhouse gas emissions. The initiative aims to expand by integrating more partners and exploring applications for solar panels and automotive glass. This collaboration strengthens sustainability efforts in the construction industry.  
• In Feb 2025, Saint-Gobain’s SageGlass has launched RealTone™, a breakthrough in electrochromic glazing that eliminates the traditional bluish tint while maintaining glare control and thermal efficiency. Designed with architects in mind, it enhances color accuracy and integrates seamlessly with various coatings and bird-friendly solutions. RealTone™ offers a more natural visual experience, expanding design possibilities for modern buildings. This innovation reinforces SageGlass’s leadership in smart glazing technology.
• In Dec 2024, Xinyi Glass Holdings has been upgraded to a "BB" ESG rating by Sino-Securities Index, reflecting improvements in environmental, social, and governance performance. The company scored 73.64 in Environment, 75.24 in Social, and 80.3 in Governance. Xinyi Glass emphasizes sustainable development, investing in green production and energy conservation. It is included in major ESG indices, highlighting its commitment to corporate responsibility and environmental goals.

Key Market Players

• AGC Inc.​
• Asahi Glass Co., Ltd.​
• Central Glass Co., Ltd.​
• Guardian Industries Corp.​
• Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd.​
• Saint-Gobain S.A.​
• Vitro, S.A.B. de C.V.​
• Xinyi Glass Holdings Limited​

Report Scope:

In this report, the Saudi Arabia Glass Curtain Wall Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Saudi Arabia Glass Curtain Wall Market, By System Type:

o   Unitized

o   Stick

• Saudi Arabia Glass Curtain Wall Market, By End Use:

o   Commercial

o   Public

o   Residential

• Saudi Arabia Glass Curtain Wall Market, By Region:

o   Riyadh

o   Makkah

o   Madinah

o   Jeddah

o   Tabuk

o   Eastern Province

o   Rest of Saudi Arabia

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies present in the Saudi Arabia Glass Curtain Wall Market.

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Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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