Saudi investors snap up 49% stake in Kenya’s landmark Jabali Towers as foreign confidence in property sector surges
Saudi Arabian investors have taken a major stake in one of Kenya’s most ambitious real estate developments, underlining growing international confidence in the country’s recovering construction sector.
A leading private Saudi Arabian independent investment holding and construction company has acquired a 49 per cent stake in Jabali Towers, the flagship mixed-use development within Tatu City Special Economic Zone in Kiambu County.
The investment will be executed through the firm’s Kenyan subsidiary, which will own 50 per cent minus one share of the project company, while Tatu City will retain majority ownership and continue leading the development.
The transaction marks one of the latest high-profile foreign investments into Kenya’s real estate market as developers seek to capitalise on renewed economic growth and increasing demand for premium residential and commercial developments.
Kenya’s construction sector rebounds
The deal comes as Kenya’s construction industry continues its recovery after a difficult period.
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) Economic Survey 2026, the sector expanded by 6.8 per cent in 2025, reversing a 0.7 per cent contraction recorded the previous year.
The rebound has largely been attributed to increased residential housing developments, accelerated road infrastructure projects and stronger cement consumption, signalling renewed investor confidence across the industry.
Landmark development taking shape
Jabali Towers is set to become one of Kenya’s most recognisable mixed-use developments, featuring two residential towers rising 25 and 36 storeys above Tatu City, approximately 30 kilometres north of Nairobi.
The project will accommodate hundreds of residential units ranging from studio apartments to three-bedroom homes, alongside more than 35 restaurants, cafés and retail outlets, creating what developers envision as a vibrant urban lifestyle destination.
Demand has already been strong, with the developer confirming that the first residential tower is already more than 80 per cent sold despite construction still being underway.
Earlier this week, Tatu City also announced the appointment of China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) as the main contractor for the 88,000-square-metre development, paving the way for large-scale construction works to begin.
Saudi firm eyes African growth
The Saudi investor said the partnership combines its construction expertise, access to building materials and financial resources with Tatu City’s established development platform.
In a statement, the company said it aims to help deliver what it described as “one of Africa’s premier mixed-use developments,” positioning Jabali Towers as a regional benchmark for integrated urban living.
The investment also reflects growing commercial ties between Saudi Arabia and Kenya as Gulf investors increasingly target East African infrastructure, logistics, housing and industrial projects.
Tatu City continues expansion
Established in 2010, Tatu City has evolved into Kenya’s largest privately developed mixed-use Special Economic Zone.
The development has attracted more than 110 local and international companies, including manufacturers, logistics firms, educational institutions and commercial enterprises.
According to the developer, the city now hosts over 7,000 residents, welcomes more than 35,000 people daily, and has attracted approximately KSh450 billion in investments. More than 3,500 homes have either been completed or are currently under construction.
Ruto praises foreign investment
President William Ruto has repeatedly highlighted Tatu City as an example of Kenya’s ability to attract significant private investment.
The President has said projects such as Tatu City demonstrate Kenya’s growing appeal to international investors while creating employment opportunities through industrialisation, manufacturing and modern urban development.
Apartments at Jabali Towers are currently priced from KSh10.2 million, with the landmark project expected to officially open in 2028.
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