Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard: A Mega Project for Urban Wellness

Estimated read time 6-7 minutes

Sports Boulevard is a hugely ambitious urban development project reshaping the city of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, into a vibrant hub for sports and recreation. Recognized as the "Mega Project of the Year" at the KSA 2024 Construction Innovation Awards, this monumental initiative aims to establish the world’s largest linear park, extending approximately 135 kilometers and linking Wadi Hanifa in the west to Wadi Al-Sulai in the east. Launched by King Salman on March 19, 2019, as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, Sports Boulevard is designed to enhance the quality of life for residents by promoting healthier lifestyles through a diverse range of sports and recreational activities. Boasting an investment of $23 billion, it promises not only to transform urban living but also to foster community engagement and environmental sustainability, positioning Riyadh as a global leader in urban wellness and recreational infrastructure.

The mega project will include the development of over 4.4 million square meters of green and open spaces which includes ambitious plans to plant more than 170,000 trees. This feat will  increase the per capita share of green space in Riyadh by a whopping 62%. The extensive tree-planting effort will help improve air quality, reduce urban heat, and provide shade, making outdoor spaces more inviting, helping propel Riyadh in its mission to become one of the most livable cities in the world.

The project's expansive design encompasses eight distinct districts, each designed to cater to different aspects of community life and offer unique experiences, from arts and entertainment to athletics and eco-friendly spaces. Connections between the districts will be achieved through the development of several projects:  220 km of cycling tracks, 134 km of horse riding trails and 135 km of pedestrian walkways. Each district will function independently yet connect seamlessly with others, creating a cohesive urban environment.

The project will feature vibrant landscapes and a variety of recreational activities through the development of the Wadi Hanifah District, named after the historically significant natural drainage system. This enhancement will elevate the area's natural beauty, establishing it as a central attraction within the project and appealing to both residents and visitors. 

The Arts District is poised to emerge as a vibrant cultural hub, dedicated to showcasing both local and international art through a variety of galleries, installations, and public displays. This district will serve as a venue for numerous artistic events and workshops, fostering creativity and encouraging community engagement. With designated spaces for performing arts, exhibitions, and collaborative artistic endeavors, the Arts District will significantly enrich Riyadh's cultural landscape, making it an essential destination for residents and visitors alike. 

There will be a district dedicated to promoting active lifestyles through the development of sports facilities and open spaces, called the Wadi Alyasen District. It will feature a range of amenities for various sports, encouraging residents to participate in physical activities. The integration of green pathways will facilitate walking, jogging, and cycling, creating an ideal environment for fitness enthusiasts and fostering a culture of health and well-being within the community. 

Designed as a vibrant area for leisure and fun, the Entertainment District will feature amusement parks, cinemas, and recreational facilities. This district aims to provide a variety of entertainment options for families and individuals, creating a lively atmosphere that enhances community interaction and enjoyment.

Competitive and hobby sports will be encouraged in the Athletics District through the offering of state of the art facilities catering to a variety of athletic disciplines at both amateur and professional levels. Most notable of these facilities will be the Global Sports Tower which is set to be the tallest sports tower in the world, with over 30 world-class sports facilities, including the world's highest indoor climbing wall at 98 meters and a fully digitized running track measuring 250 meters. This district aims to nurture talent and promote competitive sports within the community. 

The project will also take advantage of the natural landscape by creating a Sand Sports Park District that focuses on sand sports such as sandboarding and dune bashing, aiming to attract adventure seekers and promote outdoor recreation. 

Sustainability and environmental awareness will be emphasised in the Eco District, aka the Wadi Al-Sulai District, by incorporating green technologies and practices aimed at preserving the natural environment while providing educational opportunities about ecology. This district will feature parks, gardens, and eco-friendly facilities that encourage residents to connect with nature. Connecting the eastern end of Sports Boulevard, the Wadi Al-Sulai District complements the overall vision of the project by offering additional recreational spaces. It will provide access to water features and scenic views, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the boulevard while serving as a gathering place for community events.

The Sports Boulevard project represents a transformative vision for Riyadh, aiming to redefine urban living through a comprehensive approach to sports and recreation. By integrating over 135 kilometers of linear park space with eight diverse districts, this initiative not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also positions Riyadh as a global leader in urban wellness. The ambitious investment of $23 billion underscores the commitment to fostering community engagement and promoting healthier lifestyles among citizens. As the project unfolds, it promises to create vibrant public spaces that encourage mass participation in sports and cultural activities, ultimately contributing to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals and making Riyadh one of the most livable cities in the world.