Riyadh’s ambitious Sports Boulevard project has reached a significant milestone with the opening of its first phase, marking a major step in the Saudi capital’s transformation into one of the world’s most livable cities. Announced by the Sports Boulevard Foundation, chaired by HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, this achievement signals continued progress in the Kingdom’s drive towards enhanced urban well-being, sustainability, and active living.
A new era for urban well-being
Unveiled in 2019 by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Sports Boulevard aims to reshape Riyadh’s landscape by integrating fitness, leisure, and green spaces.
With five key destinations now open to the public, the project has reached 40% completion, delivering 83 km of connected pathways and facilities that promote an active lifestyle.
The initiative is a core component of Saudi Vision 2030, fostering a healthier, more engaged society by encouraging physical activity and offering world-class amenities.
By seamlessly connecting communities across Riyadh, it enhances accessibility and mobility while establishing the city as a global benchmark for sustainable urban development.
Five destinations redefining Riyadh
1. Wadi Hanifah: A green artery for active living
Spanning 13.4 km from Al-Olab Dam to Jeddah Road, Wadi Hanifah is now an inviting recreational corridor. It features pedestrian paths, cycling and equestrian trails, green spaces, and rest areas. A standout feature is the Cycling Bridge, connecting Wadi Hanifah to the Promenade. This striking landmark provides safe and scenic pedestrian and cycling access between Diriyah and the Promenade along Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road.
2. The Promenade: An urban oasis for fitness and leisure
Stretching 4 km, the Promenade is a showcase of Salmani architecture, blending aesthetics with functionality. It offers dedicated cycling tracks for both professionals and enthusiasts, complemented by rest stops, lush green spaces, water features, walking trails, children’s playgrounds, and retail outlets catering to cyclists.
3. The Arts Tower and urban crossroads
At the intersection of Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road and Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Road stands the Arts Tower—a bold new landmark. Inspired by high-voltage electricity towers that once dominated the area, its colourful geometric panels create captivating light reflections, symbolising Riyadh’s dynamic transformation.
4. Princess Nourah University loop: A model for integrated mobility
Within the prestigious Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, a 20 km internal loop enhances accessibility for students, faculty, and visitors. Designed for cycling and pedestrian movement, it promotes sustainability and a healthy campus lifestyle.
5. Sands Sports Park: A haven for adventure seekers
Situated southeast of King Khalid International Airport, the Sands Sports Park offers thrilling outdoor experiences. With dedicated cycling routes, mountain bike trails, BMX tracks, hiking paths, and equestrian trails, it caters to professionals and amateurs alike. The Najdi Flower, a signature 45 km cycling route, is a key attraction, while over 350,000 square metres of rehabilitated sand dunes enhance the natural landscape.
A future-ready Riyadh
The Sports Boulevard project is far from complete, with further developments underway. The Foundation has already introduced infrastructure enhancements, including the Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Road Underpass to improve traffic flow. Ongoing work includes the Urban Wadi Destination, the King Abdulaziz Road Underpass, and the Abi Bakr Al-Siddiq Road Underpass, all designed to streamline connectivity and accessibility across the city.
The newly opened destinations are now accessible to the public, inviting residents and visitors to immerse themselves in Riyadh’s evolving urban landscape. For more information and access details, visit www.SportsBoulevard.sa.Riyadh’s ambitious Sports Boulevard project has reached a significant milestone with the opening of its first phase, marking a major step in the Saudi capital’s transformation into one of the world’s most livable cities. Announced by the Sports Boulevard Foundation, chaired by HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, this achievement signals continued progress in the Kingdom’s drive towards enhanced urban well-being, sustainability, and active living.
A new era for urban well-being
Unveiled in 2019 by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Sports Boulevard aims to reshape Riyadh’s landscape by integrating fitness, leisure, and green spaces. With five key destinations now open to the public, the project has reached 40% completion, delivering 83 km of connected pathways and facilities that promote an active lifestyle.
The initiative is a core component of Saudi Vision 2030, fostering a healthier, more engaged society by encouraging physical activity and offering world-class amenities. By seamlessly connecting communities across Riyadh, it enhances accessibility and mobility while establishing the city as a global benchmark for sustainable urban development.
Five destinations redefining Riyadh
1. Wadi Hanifah: A green artery for active living
Spanning 13.4 km from Al-Olab Dam to Jeddah Road, Wadi Hanifah is now an inviting recreational corridor. It features pedestrian paths, cycling and equestrian trails, green spaces, and rest areas. A standout feature is the Cycling Bridge, connecting Wadi Hanifah to the Promenade. This striking landmark provides safe and scenic pedestrian and cycling access between Diriyah and the Promenade along Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road.
2. The Promenade: An urban oasis for fitness and leisure
Stretching 4 km, the Promenade is a showcase of Salmani architecture, blending aesthetics with functionality. It offers dedicated cycling tracks for both professionals and enthusiasts, complemented by rest stops, lush green spaces, water features, walking trails, children’s playgrounds, and retail outlets catering to cyclists.
3. The Arts Tower and urban crossroads
At the intersection of Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road and Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Road stands the Arts Tower—a bold new landmark. Inspired by high-voltage electricity towers that once dominated the area, its colourful geometric panels create captivating light reflections, symbolising Riyadh’s dynamic transformation.
4. Princess Nourah University loop: A model for integrated mobility
Within the prestigious Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, a 20 km internal loop enhances accessibility for students, faculty, and visitors. Designed for cycling and pedestrian movement, it promotes sustainability and a healthy campus lifestyle.
5. Sands Sports Park: A haven for adventure seekers
Situated southeast of King Khalid International Airport, the Sands Sports Park (pictured – top of page) offers thrilling outdoor experiences. With dedicated cycling routes, mountain bike trails, BMX tracks, hiking paths, and equestrian trails, it caters to professionals and amateurs alike. The Najdi Flower, a signature 45 km cycling route, is a key attraction, while over 350,000 square metres of rehabilitated sand dunes enhance the natural landscape.
A future-ready Riyadh
The Sports Boulevard project is far from complete, with further developments underway. The Foundation has already introduced infrastructure enhancements, including the Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Road Underpass to improve traffic flow. Ongoing work includes the Urban Wadi Destination, the King Abdulaziz Road Underpass, and the Abi Bakr Al-Siddiq Road Underpass, all designed to streamline connectivity and accessibility across the city.
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