Twenty parks will soon open in Riyadh

The parks will span a combined area of over 181,000 square metres.

It’s no secret that with the average global temperature essentially increasing annually since 1975, green spaces offer much-needed respite from the heat — especially in our region. And with Riyadh aiming to be among the world’s most liveable cities by 2030, parks are naturally a part of the equation.

Now, a total of 20 parks have been inaugurated across 18 residential districts (Janadriyah, Al Khaleej, and Cordoba included) in the Saudi capital, encompassing a combined area of 181,225 square metres. A ceremony was held to mark the occasion in the presence of Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Mayor of Riyadh.

We’re told that, collectively, these new Riyadh parks will be equipped with more than 7,000 trees and shrubs, and pedestrian paths spanning over 62,000 linear metres. Parking lots, meanwhile, will accommodate a total of 1,000 vehicles. The initiative has also taken families into account, so 56 recreational areas and six playgrounds are expected, as are more than 750 decorative lampposts.

For those currently in Riyadh and looking to while away a few hours in the evening, we recommend King Abdullah Park for its wide walkways, sports areas, artificial lake, and dancing water fountain displays. The former equestrian field extends an area of 31.8 hectares in the Al-Malazz neighbourhood. And of course, the park will once again host an impressive fireworks display come Saudi National Day on 23 September.

GO: Visit www.alriyadh.gov.sa for more information.