How Riyadh’s new King Salman Park will provide an urban haven for flora and fauna

Special How Riyadh’s new King Salman Park will provide an urban haven for flora and fauna
Future Horizons: Visualizing the expansive green spaces of King Salman Park, poised to transform Riyadh's urban landscape. (Supplied)
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Updated 31 August 2024
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How Riyadh’s new King Salman Park will provide an urban haven for flora and fauna

How Riyadh’s new King Salman Park will provide an urban haven for flora and fauna
  • The park will feature over 11 sq. km of green space, including gardens, meadows, and forests, creating a vast natural habitat
  • Set to become the world’s largest urban park by 2025, it will expand Riyadh’s green footprint and foster biodiversity

RIYADH: When one imagines a rapidly expanding desert city, few are likely to picture a glittering modern skyline punctuated with green spaces alive with the sound of birds and insects. And yet, this is the dream that is fast becoming a reality in the Saudi capital, Riyadh.

Scheduled to open in 2025, King Salman Park is set to become the largest of its kind in the world, covering about 16.6 sq. km. As a flagship initiative of Saudi Vision 2030, it will not only expand the city’s green spaces, but also enhance quality of life.




Future Horizons: Visualizing the expansive green spaces of King Salman Park, poised to transform Riyadh's urban landscape. (Supplied)

“King Salman Park is set to redefine Riyadh’s urban landscape,” Khaled Al-Ojyan, an architect with Green Riyadh, told Arab News. “This ambitious project aligns perfectly with Vision 2030, transforming the city into a more sustainable, vibrant and green environment.”

Construction is progressing rapidly, with more than $1 billion in contracts awarded to spearhead its development. The project forms a major part of a broader $23 billion investment to revitalize Riyadh’s infrastructure, including contributions from the private sector amounting to $15 billion.

Situated on the grounds of the former Riyadh Air Base, the park will be seven times the size of London’s Hyde Park and five times that of New York’s Central Park, making it a monumental addition to the city’s landscape.




A Glimpse into the Future: Envisioning the lush landscapes of King Salman Park, set to become Riyadh's green oasis. (Supplied)

Although King Salman Park has been designed to provide a wide range of sports, cultural and recreational activities, it is also intended to act as a haven for biodiversity, featuring a wealth of plant and animal life.

More than 11.6 sq. km of the site will be dedicated to green space, planted with 1 million trees. These vast areas will contribute significantly to increasing the region’s vegetation cover, raising the rate of per capita green spaces and supporting a variety of local wildlife.

The park’s design also includes vertical gardens, an Islamic-style garden and various other spaces that will serve as habitats for birds, butterflies and other species, enhancing the park’s aesthetic appeal and creating a healthier, more vibrant ecosystem within Riyadh.

DID YOUKNOW?

• King Salman Park will feature more than 11 sq. km of green areas, including gardens, meadows and forests, creating a vast natural habitat within Riyadh.

• The park is designed to support diverse plant and animal species, with initiatives aimed at conserving native flora and fauna.

• The park will incorporate sustainable irrigation and water recycling systems, promoting water conservation and supporting plant life.

The park’s “valley” area, covering more than 800,000 sq. meters, will include several bodies of water designed to support aquatic life and offer migratory birds a place to rest.

The inclusion of these natural elements in the park’s design is a testament to the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability and urban biodiversity.




Imagining the Possibilities: A sneak peek of King Salman Park, where culture and nature will blend seamlessly. (Supplied)

“By incorporating advanced urban development and green infrastructure strategies, King Salman Park will serve as a dynamic centerpiece for the community,” said Al-Ojyan of Green Riyadh.

“It’s inspiring to witness such a forward-thinking initiative come to life, setting a new standard for urban development in the region. I believe this will be a landmark achievement for Riyadh.”

King Salman Park is not just about enhancing biodiversity. It is also about improving quality of life for Riyadh’s residents. The park will feature a 7.2-km pedestrian walkway, offering a serene environment for walking and exercise.




A Glimpse into the Future: Envisioning the lush landscapes of King Salman Park, set to become Riyadh's green oasis. (Supplied)

Recreational facilities, including playgrounds, sports complexes and cultural venues, will be spread across the park, encouraging outdoor activities and fostering a sense of community.

The park’s cultural facilities will be a major draw for residents and visitors alike. The Royal Art Complex, occupying an area of more than 400,000 sq. meters, will include a national theater, five museums, an outdoor theater and art academies.

These cultural venues will host various events and activities, making King Salman Park a vibrant cultural hub in Riyadh.

Sustainability is a key focus of King Salman Park’s development. The park’s design includes numerous eco-friendly features, such as rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient systems.

These sustainable practices will minimize the park’s environmental impact and ensure that it remains a green oasis in the heart of Riyadh.

The park’s extensive green spaces and tree-planting efforts will also help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improving the overall climate in Riyadh.




Imagining the Possibilities: A sneak peek of King Salman Park, where culture and nature will blend seamlessly. (Supplied)

The strategic location of King Salman Park, linked to several main roads and public transport stations, will make it easily accessible, further enhancing its role as a sustainable and inclusive urban space.

King Salman Park is a long-term investment in the future of Riyadh. As part of the city’s transformation under Vision 2030, the park will play a crucial role in making Riyadh one of the most livable cities in the world.

Future enhancements and expansions will continue to promote environmental sustainability and urban biodiversity, ensuring that King Salman Park will remain a vital part of Riyadh’s urban landscape in the future.
 

 


Jeddah Water Taxi project officially inaugurated 

Jeddah Water Taxi project officially inaugurated 
Updated 06 March 2025
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Jeddah Water Taxi project officially inaugurated 

Jeddah Water Taxi project officially inaugurated 
  • First phase of the project connects three main areas: the Jeddah Yacht Club, the city’s historic Al-Balad area, and Obhur
  • Mayor Saleh Al-Turki launched the project in a ceremony attended by Rumaih Al-Rumaih, deputy minister of transport and logistics services

JEDDAH: The Jeddah Water Taxi project was officially inaugurated by the city’s mayor on Thursday, the Jeddah Transport Company announced.

The first phase of the project connects three main areas: the Jeddah Yacht Club, the city’s historic Al-Balad area, and Obhur, with potential for future expansion to other locations.

Mayor Saleh Al-Turki launched the project in a ceremony attended by Rumaih Al-Rumaih, deputy minister of transport and logistics services.

Al-Turki expressed his happiness at the launch of the project and told Arab News that the water taxi project “reflects the Kingdom’s vision to strengthen transport infrastructure and provide modern transportation options that ease the movement of citizens, residents, and visitors, while also serving as a strategic addition to tourism and maritime transport in Jeddah in alignment with Vision 2030 initiatives.”

The event was attended by numerous prominent figures, including government officials and heads of organizations and companies related to transportation and logistics.

Yousef Al-Sayegh, CEO of JTC, spoke about the project’s role in enhancing mobility and improving the quality of life in Jeddah.

“The project will enhance safe and efficient marine mobility and contribute to improving the quality of life in Jeddah,” he said.

“In the past, the easiest and fastest route was through the port. Now, with the 2030 vision and the focus on tourism, we wanted to create an engagement leading toward that objective, so we are using air-conditioned water taxis.

“The trial operation of the water taxi is through MACNA, a local project operator, for a limited period to transport passengers between ready and attractive locations with the aim of testing the service, gathering data, and understanding the market.”

Al-Sayegh also highlighted an agreement with the Ministry of Culture for the use of golf carts in Al-Balad, providing transport to and from the port.

For the first phase of the project, there are two boats: one with a capacity of 94 passengers and the other with a capacity of 55 passengers.

A dedicated app has been made available for those wishing to experience the water taxi, with details accessible via the Jeddah Transportation Company app.

The water taxi operates daily from 3:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. during Ramadan, with fares ranging from SR25-50 ($6.60-$13.30) per trip, and children ride for free. Special entry and exit points for people with disabilities are available, with a capacity for up to four wheelchairs.


Saudi Arabia distributes dates and iftar meals in Indonesia, Albania, and Jordan

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosque’s programs for the distribution of dates and iftar meals launched in Indonesia, Albania, Jordan
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosque’s programs for the distribution of dates and iftar meals launched in Indonesia, Albania, Jordan
Updated 06 March 2025
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Saudi Arabia distributes dates and iftar meals in Indonesia, Albania, and Jordan

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosque’s programs for the distribution of dates and iftar meals launched in Indonesia, Albania, Jordan
  • Ceremony held in Jakarta on Wednesday was attended by the Saudi Ambassador to Indonesia Faisal Al-Amoudi and several officials
  • Similar ceremony was held this week in Tirana, Albania, where five tons of dates will be distributed and 22,000 people are set to benefit from the programs

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance launched the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ programs for the distribution of dates and iftar meals in Indonesia, Albania, and Jordan this week.

A ceremony held in Jakarta on Wednesday was attended by the Saudi Ambassador to Indonesia Faisal Al-Amoudi and several ministers and heads of Islamic associations and centers in Indonesia.

This year, 56,000 individuals will benefit from the date distribution program, 5,000 will benefit from the iftar program, and 35,000 will receive copies of the Qur’an during Ramadan, Saudi Press Agency reported.

A similar ceremony was held this week in Tirana, Albania, where five tons of dates will be distributed and 22,000 people are set to benefit from the iftar and dates distribution programs.

Iftar and dates distribution programs in Jordan are providing humanitarian assistance to charitable associations, orphanages, and Palestinian and Syrian refugee camps this Ramadan, SPA added.


Tawakkalna app enhances Ramadan worship with top quality services

Tawakkalna app enhances Ramadan worship with top quality services
Updated 06 March 2025
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Tawakkalna app enhances Ramadan worship with top quality services

Tawakkalna app enhances Ramadan worship with top quality services
  • Qur’an reading, prayer times, permits for Umrah, charity donations are among the services provided

RIYADH: The services provided by Saudi Arabia’s Tawakkalna super app are enhancing worship for users during the holy month of Ramadan, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

The app provides an accurate Qibla direction and updates on the imams leading prayers at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.

It has a feature allowing for the reading of the Qur’an, and a prayer timetable for the entire Kingdom.

This includes the times of the adhan or call to prayer, iqamah or when the prayer begins, and sahoor or the breaking of the fast.

Additionally, the app offers Ehsan services, simplifying the process for users to make charitable donations, including to orphans.

Moreover, the app’s Manasik gateway allows users to view and obtain permits for performing Umrah and praying in the Rawdah or Garden area at the Prophet’s Mosque.

The Tawakkalna app offers more than 650 government services within a single, secure and reliable platform, the SPA reported.

The aim is to enhance the quality of life for citizens, residents and visitors, in alignment with the Saudi Vision 2030 plan.


Grand Mosque authority introduces hair cutting service for exiting ihram

Grand Mosque authority introduces hair cutting service for exiting ihram
Updated 06 March 2025
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Grand Mosque authority introduces hair cutting service for exiting ihram

Grand Mosque authority introduces hair cutting service for exiting ihram

MAKKAH: The General Authority for the Care of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque has launched its first trial operation of the ritual of exiting from the state of Ihram after completion of rituals on the courtyard of the Grand Mosque for the first time during the current holy month of Ramadan. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance services for pilgrims and improve the Umrah experience.

The new service allows pilgrims to exit from Ihram after completing the rituals through shaving their head or cutting their hair at five designated locations opposite the Marwa area. These stations can be relocated as needed during periods of high congestion. They are staffed by experienced specialists using fully sterilized equipment, ensuring efficient service delivery while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.

The authority is working on developing services within the Two Holy Mosques by introducing many new services while maintaining standards of quality and efficiency to provide a distinguished experience for visitors to the Grand Mosque.

Mohammed Asiri, a Hajj and Umrah affairs specialist and religious researcher, explained that exit from Ihram after completing the Umrah rituals is an essential final step in completing Umrah, where pilgrims shave their heads or trim their hair after completing Sa'i between Safa and Marwa.

"This practice follows the Prophetic Sunnah, as Prophet Mohammed instructed his companions to shave or trim their hair after performing Umrah," Asiri noted. He added that men typically prefer complete shaving, while women need only trim a small portion of their hair.

The ritual symbolizes purification and renewal after worship and marks the end of Ihram restrictions that began when pilgrims entered the Miqat.

Fahd Al-Hamidi, who used the service at the Grand Mosque, praised it as "an extension of Saudi Arabia's significant efforts to serve pilgrims from around the world." He explained that the exit from Ihram service is just one of thousands of great services provided by this nation, both people and government, to make the rituals of Umrah performers coupled with ease and simplicity, enriching their experience and providing service to the highest standards.

Al-Hamidi described the exit from Ihram as a joyful moment that brings a sense of relief and spiritual closeness to Allah. He added that this simple procedure carries deep spiritual meanings, symbolizing renewal and purification from sins and beginning a new page full of faith and piety.

"The ritual release is not merely cutting or shaving hair, but a profound spiritual symbol of submission to Allah's commands and the Prophet's Sunnah," Al-Hamidi concluded.

"With these modern solutions like mobile barbershop units, this important final step of Umrah has become more convenient and efficient for pilgrims."


Sandstorm hits Riyadh, moderate to heavy rain forecast for parts of Saudi Arabia

A sandstorm hit Riyadh and its outskirts on Thursday. (AN photo by Rashid Hassan)
A sandstorm hit Riyadh and its outskirts on Thursday. (AN photo by Rashid Hassan)
Updated 06 March 2025
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Sandstorm hits Riyadh, moderate to heavy rain forecast for parts of Saudi Arabia

A sandstorm hit Riyadh and its outskirts on Thursday. (AN photo by Rashid Hassan)
  • Road safety authority and Saudi Highway Security warned motorists to exercise caution due to poor visibility caused by the dust storm
  • Rain and snow may also fall in parts of Jazan, Aseer and Tabuk regions

RIYADH: A sandstorm hit Riyadh and its outskirts on Thursday, enveloping the skyline in dust clouds and hampering visibility, while moderate to heavy rains were forecast for several regions of the Kingdom.

The road safety authority and Saudi Highway Security warned motorists to exercise caution due to poor visibility caused by the dust storm.

The General Directorate of Civil Defense advised residents to avoid going to sandy locations to avoid accidents during the sandstorm, and also called for caution and for people to follow instructions issued as a result of weather conditions in parts of the Kingdom.

Widespread dust storms were also predicted in several parts of the Kingdom.

The forecast by the National Center for Meteorology on Thursday said dust-stirring winds will blow and moderate to heavy rain and hail may fall in parts of Al-Baha, Makkah, Madinah, Hail, Qassim, Riyadh, Al-Jouf, as well as the Eastern and Northern Borders regions.

Rain and snow may also fall in parts of Jazan, Aseer and Tabuk regions, it said.

Winds over the Red Sea will be northwesterly to northerly at speeds of 15-50 kph in the northern and central parts, and southwesterly to southeasterly at speeds of 20-42 kph in the south.

Waves may range from half a meter to more than two meters, and the Red Sea will be calm to choppy, according to the forecast by the NCM.

Winds in the Arabian Gulf will be easterly to northeasterly, reaching 20-50 kph. Waves may range from a meter to more than two meters, and the sea will be relatively calm to choppy.