A mega park five times the size of New York City’s Central Park and seven times the size of London’s Hyde Park is set to open in Riyadh in 2025.
Set to redefine Riyadh’s urban landscape, the US$1B+ King Salman Park project is part of a larger US$23B investment to transform the expanding desert city into a vibrant metropolis, Arab News reported.
Sprawling 16.6 sqkm, the park is slated to be the world’s largest of its kind and with the aim to not only improve the quality of life for residents but the visiting experience for travellers – all of which aligns with the coutnry’s Vision 2030 to be more green and sustainable.
Envisioned as a vibrant hub for various activities and functionalities, King Salman Park will provide visitors with all sorts of facilities for sports, cultural, and recreational pursuits. There’ll also be a scenic 7.2km footpath meandering through the landscaped surrounds for those keen on strolls and jogs through nature. No doubt the 11.6 sqkm of space to be planted with 1 million trees will provide an enchanting and inducive environment.
Visitors will also enjoy an Islamic-style garden and vertical gardens, along with specially designed habitats for birds, butterflies and other animals. There will also be a “valley” spanning 800,000 sqm featuring a network of water features to nurture aquatic life and provide a safe haven for migratory birds to rest and rejuvenate.
Playgrounds, sports complexes and cultural venues including the 400,000 sqm Royal Art Complex featuring a national theater, five museums, an outdoor theater and art academies will be peppered across the park, inviting visitors to explore.
While King Salman Park is set to become one of the city’s premier cultural destinations, what truly sets this park apart is its commitment to sustainability. From rainwater harvesting to energy-efficient systems, every aspect of the park has been carefully designed to minimize its ecological footprint. Moreover, the park’s sprawling green expanses and ambitious tree-planting initiatives will play a crucial role in combating the urban heat island effect, ultimately contributing to a cooler, more pleasant climate in Riyadh.
Located on the grounds of the former Riyadh Air Base, King Salman Park boasts a prime location with convenient access to major roads and public transportation hubs. With future plans for enhancements and expansions that prioritise environmental stewardship and urban biodiversity, King Salman Park will continue to evolve ensuring it remains a thriving and integral part of Riyadh’s cityscape for generations to come.
