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.

 

 


Sri Lankan envoy hails Kingdom’s Islamic efforts

Sri Lankan envoy hails Kingdom’s Islamic efforts
Updated 4 sec ago
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Sri Lankan envoy hails Kingdom’s Islamic efforts

Sri Lankan envoy hails Kingdom’s Islamic efforts

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Abdullatif Al-Asheikh received Sri Lankan Ambassador Omar Lebbe Ameer Ajwad and his accompanying delegation in Riyadh.

The officials discussed various topics related to Islamic affairs and ongoing cooperation between the two countries, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, the envoy praised the Kingdom’s leading role in supporting Islamic causes and promoting the values of tolerance and moderation globally, particularly in Sri Lanka.

Ameer Ajwad emphasized that these efforts reflect the true message of Islam, the SPA reported.

“We take pride in the Kingdom’s remarkable role in promoting the values of tolerance and moderation — a noble mission that truly represents the lofty message of Islam,” the envoy said.

He thanked King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their generous support to Sri Lanka across various fields, and especially their service in response to Qur’anic injunctions.

The ambassador also praised the Ministry of Islamic Affairs for spreading a message of moderation worldwide.

He commended the ministry’s awareness programs, training for imams and preachers, and its organization of Qur’an competitions.


Madinah fair empowers Saudi authors, publishers

Madinah fair empowers Saudi authors, publishers
Updated 19 min 39 sec ago
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Madinah fair empowers Saudi authors, publishers

Madinah fair empowers Saudi authors, publishers

MADINAH: The Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission has empowered the nation’s authors and publishers at the fourth Madinah Book Fair, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The week-long event, held from July 29 to Aug. 4, hosted more than 300 local and international publishing houses and agencies across more than 200 exhibition booths.

Abdullatif Alwasel, the commission’s CEO, thanked the Kingdom’s leaders for their continued support of the nation’s arts and culture sector.

He said the fair marks a key milestone in advancing the publishing industry and spreading knowledge across society.

Alwasel noted that this year’s edition saw unprecedented participation and a wide range of cultural events tailored to various age groups and intellectual interests.

The fair offered broad opportunities for local publishers and authors, improved book accessibility, and strengthened Saudi Arabia content, he added.

Notable initiatives included a discounted book zone and upgrades to the fair’s technical infrastructure, enhancing visitor engagement and overall experience.

The fair attracted large numbers of people from diverse backgrounds who actively engaged with the cultural program presented by distinguished writers and intellectuals.

The sessions featured panels and workshops on key literary topics for the benefit of the public, according to the report.

The book-signing platform hosted several Saudi Arabia authors with their latest work, while various government and cultural organizations showcased their latest initiatives and contributions to the sector.


Hackathon to drive innovation in AlUla tourism

Hackathon to drive innovation in AlUla tourism
Updated 05 August 2025
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Hackathon to drive innovation in AlUla tourism

Hackathon to drive innovation in AlUla tourism

RIYADH: Vibes AlUla, an entrepreneurship and innovation hub launched in partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla, has opened registration for a sustainable tourism hackathon, set for Aug. 10 to 12.

The hackathon is aimed at empowering national talent and fostering innovative solutions to support AlUla’s tourism sector, according to a Saudi Press Agency report.

Participants will benefit from a comprehensive training program, including specialized workshops, mentoring sessions, and expert guidance in innovation, tourism, and entrepreneurship.

AlUla residents are invited to contribute projects that showcase the region’s environmental and cultural richness while promoting a more sustainable and resilient tourism ecosystem.

Vibes AlUla recently hosted the closing event of the AlUla Entrepreneurs Incubator Program, attended by public and private sector representatives, as well as entrepreneurs and innovators.

Participants showcased a range of startup projects developed by local entrepreneurs, focusing mainly on the film and tourism industries.

These projects contribute to economic diversification and align with AlUla’s vision for a sustainable creative economy, the SPA reported.

As one of the Kingdom’s leading tourism destinations, AlUla offers unique natural and historical assets, making it an ideal hub for entrepreneurial ventures and high-quality investment in tourism and creative sectors, the report added.


Jeddah Summer Season delivers fun for every mood

Visitors say this year’s Jeddah Summer Season program offers more variety and polish than ever. (Supplied)
Visitors say this year’s Jeddah Summer Season program offers more variety and polish than ever. (Supplied)
Updated 04 August 2025
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Jeddah Summer Season delivers fun for every mood

Visitors say this year’s Jeddah Summer Season program offers more variety and polish than ever. (Supplied)
  • Concerts, historic markets, and coastal escapes have the city buzzing with energy

JEDDAH: Jeddah Summer Season is in full swing, offering a mix of entertainment, sports, shopping, and cultural experiences that continue to attract locals and tourists despite the summer heat.

Running until Aug. 31 under the “Color Your Summer” initiative by the Saudi Tourism Authority, the season features a rich lineup of events that highlight Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial energy.

Visitors say this year’s Jeddah Summer Season program offers more variety and polish than ever. (Supplied)

From the immersive Forest Wonders experience, thrilling horror fests and buzzing beach activities, to musical performances and heritage shopping in Al-Balad, the program reflects the city’s reputation as a top-tier tourism destination in Saudi Arabia.

Popular attractions this year include the Jeddah Shopping Festival, which combines major retail details with lively music nights and engaging live shows, creating a singular commercial and entertainment experience.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Jeddah Summer Season is running until Aug. 31 under the ‘Color Your Summer’ initiative by the Saudi Tourism Authority.

• It features a rich lineup of events that highlight Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial energy.

The West Coast beach program is another standout, offering a range of activities at popular spots.

Saudi Tourism Authority’s “Color Your Summer” initiative, running until Aug. 31, showcases Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial vibrancy. (Supplied)

The attractions include the Zaya, Eden and Kashta beaches, the Souq, Pink beach (private location for women) and Jeddah Waves where visitors can enjoy concerts, food stalls, and family-friendly fun along the Red Sea coast.

Meanwhile Forest Wonders has emerged as a family favorite. The air-conditioned, jungle-themed indoor venue features animal encounters, theatrical performances, adventure-style dining, and interactive experiences designed to captivate children and adults.

We visit Jeddah every summer, but this year’s has been truly exceptional. The range of events and the level of organization are impressive; the events are beautifully diversified.

Abulrahman Al-Nahari, Returning visitor from Jazan

Visitors say this year’s program offers more variety and polish than ever.

Saudi Tourism Authority’s “Color Your Summer” initiative, running until Aug. 31, showcases Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial vibrancy. (Supplied)

Abulrahman Al-Nahari, a 52-year-old returning visitor from Jazan, praised the organization and diversity of activities, citing a beach trip and island tour to Bayada as highlights.

He told Arab News: “We visit Jeddah every summer, but this year’s has been truly exceptional. The range of events and the level of organization are impressive; the events are beautifully diversified.”

Saudi Tourism Authority’s “Color Your Summer” initiative, running until Aug. 31, showcases Jeddah’s coastal charm, family appeal, and commercial vibrancy. (Supplied)

Al-Nahari, who is visiting with his four children, added: “We have been here for just a week and it is fun so far ... Despite the heat we enjoyed activities such as Kashta beach and the Jeddah historical district.”

Fatima Al-Bugami, a mother of two from Makkah, said her children loved Forest Wonders, while she enjoyed shopping in the historic Al-Balad district.

“It is a unique shopping experience in the heart of Jeddah where you can find everything you need,” she said, noting that they also enjoyed dining at Bab Makkah’s seafood restaurants.

“It was a fun day for us,” she said.

Even lifelong Jeddah resident Muhannad Shaker, who typically avoids crowds, was impressed by the season’s offerings.

“This year my friends were able to convince me to go to the various beaches which are part of Jeddah Summer Season and I really found them well organized and very neat,” he told Arab News.

“It kept us busy with entertaining activities beside swimming … So, simply this year’s season combines commerce and entertainment events which is really amazing.”

 


Heritage comes alive at Raghadan Historical Market in Baha

Raghadan Historical Market serves as a platform for cultural exchange. (SPA)
Raghadan Historical Market serves as a platform for cultural exchange. (SPA)
Updated 04 August 2025
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Heritage comes alive at Raghadan Historical Market in Baha

Raghadan Historical Market serves as a platform for cultural exchange. (SPA)
  • Ancient artifacts, Arabic calligraphy, craft programs on offer
  • 17th International Honey Festival records sales of over $400k

RIYADH: The Raghadan Historical Market in Baha has opened with a lineup of vibrant cultural and entertainment programs under the auspices of Prince Hussam bin Saud bin Abdulaziz, the region’s governor, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Running daily from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., the market features folk performances, historical artifacts, and programs portraying traditional life in the region.

Raghadan Historical Market serves as a platform for cultural exchange. (SPA)

Visitors can also enjoy artistic showcases, Arabic calligraphy, photography exhibits, children’s activities, and family-friendly competitions. 

A key focus of the event is the participation of families involved in the production of handmade crafts and traditional products. Local food and drinks are also on offer. 

NUMBER

$400k

The 17th International Honey Festival at Raghadan Forest Park achieved strong commercial results, with over 8 tonnes of honey sold and sales surpassing SR1.5 million ($400,000).

The market serves as a platform for cultural exchange, promotes heritage tourism, and positions Baha as a year-round cultural destination, the SPA reported.

Meanwhile, the 17th International Honey Festival has concluded at Raghadan Forest Park. It attracted 50,000 visitors and featured 34 beekeepers from across the Kingdom showcasing a wide array of products.

Organized by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, the event spotlighted the biodiversity of bees in the region and the high quality of local honey.

The festival achieved strong commercial results, with over 8 tonnes of honey sold and sales surpassing SR1.5 million ($400,000). 

It also reinforced the ministry’s efforts to develop rural economies, encourage investment, and support the agricultural sector, the SPA reported.