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.

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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.
 

 


How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability

How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability
Updated 39 sec ago
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How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability

How Saudi Arabia is leveraging regenerative tourism to blend luxury with sustainability
  • Unsustainable tourism is degrading ecosystems, harming biodiversity, and leading to cultural exploitation
  • Red Sea Global’s luxury destinations limit visitors to 1 million per year to ease pressure on the environment

RIYADH: At the heart of Saudi Arabia’s environmental strategy is regenerative tourism, which aims to protect natural habitats through science-led approaches and sustainable practices.

Unlike sustainable tourism, which aims to minimize harm, regenerative tourism strives to improve destinations through conservation, community engagement and science-led initiatives.

This includes implementing eco-friendly infrastructure, protecting biodiversity, and involving local communities in conservation efforts to ensure long-term environmental and economic benefits.

Raed Albasseet, group chief environment and sustainability officer at Red Sea Global, says the real estate company practices “regenerative tourism” with a commitment to operate on renewable energy alone.

“This commitment is not just a tagline; it’s woven into the very infrastructure of our destinations ... integrating sustainability into every phase of design and construction,” he told Arab News.

“Visitors can already experience this firsthand at The Red Sea, where eco-conscious designs are effortlessly integrated into every aspect of their stay.”

The Red Sea, a luxury regenerative tourism destination on Saudi Arabia’s west coast, features world-class resorts. By 2030, it will include 50 hotels, 8,000 rooms and more than 1,000 residences, while capping visitors at 1 million annually to help protect local ecosystems.

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As part of this plan, Red Sea Global has developed the Desert Rock Resort, a newly opened retreat that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Designed to reduce energy use and maximize natural light, its elevated rooms feature large openings that mimic cave mouths, allowing ample daylight to filter in.

Before construction began at the Desert Rock Resort, Red Sea Global partnered with the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology to conduct a comprehensive marine spatial planning simulation.

“This was the largest study of its kind ever undertaken in Saudi Arabia, and it provided crucial data to inform our master plan and minimize our impact on the delicate marine ecosystem,” Albasseet said, adding: “As a result, we limited development to only 22 of the more than 90 islands at The Red Sea destination.”  

The Desert Rock Resort, developed by Red Sea Global, is a retreat that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. 

The Desert Rock Resort even repurposed excavated materials, meaning no additional materials were brought in for the main infrastructure.

“We used the mountains’ natural stone for interior and exterior walls and concrete was mixed using local sources of sand and stone,” said Albasseet. “To further reduce on-site disruption and waste, we emphasize pre-fabrication and off-site manufacturing.”

Moreover, Red Sea Global’s hotels and resorts are powered by solar energy, allowing guests to enjoy an eco-friendly destination with a zero carbon footprint.

Albasseet said the backbone of the company’s renewable energy strategy was Red Sea’s vast solar farms, which include hundreds of thousands of photovoltaic panels — more than 750,000 are currently in place.

“These farms generate clean electricity, significantly reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing our carbon footprint,” he said.

“To ensure a consistent and reliable power supply, even when the sun isn’t shining, we’ve also built one of the world’s largest battery storage facilities at The Red Sea. This … allows us to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it to power our resorts at night.”

DID YOU KNOW?

• Diriyah, a historic landmark in Riyadh, is being developed sustainably under Vision 2030, earning platinum-level LEED precertification.

• The Farasan Islands, a biodiverse Red Sea archipelago, are being developed for conservation and ecotourism.

• Soudah Development is transforming Saudi Arabia’s southern region into a luxury destination with a focus on ecosystem restoration.

This reliance on solar power extends beyond Red Sea Global’s resorts and hotels.

“It also powers Red Sea International Airport, putting it on track to become the region’s first airport powered entirely by renewable energy,” Albasseet said. “Even our 5G network, a crucial component of modern connectivity, runs on solar energy, making it the world’s first sunlight-powered network.”

A wider view of the Desert Rock resort, a luxury destibation set in a hidden valley and nestled between the mountains near Umluj governorate in Tabuk region. (Red Sea Global photo) 

Shebara and Desert Rock, which opened to guests last year, have integrated advanced water systems and water-saving strategies through smart irrigation systems that optimize water use.

“A key element of our water conservation efforts is the implementation of closed-loop systems. Notably, at Desert Rock we have advanced water retention and distribution systems that capture rainwater,” Albasseet said.

“This captured rainwater is being used to sustain the surrounding wadi, revitalizing the local ecosystem and minimizing reliance on external water sources.

“The resort’s design also incorporates water-efficient fixtures and landscaping, further reducing water usage in day-to-day operations. This integration of natural water systems into the resort’s design demonstrates our commitment to working with, rather than against, the natural environment.”

Soudah, a luxurious mountain destination 3,015 meters above sea level in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia, is more than just a mountain retreat. It  offers a range of immersive natural experiences and the opportunity to celebrate the cultural abundance of the region. (Soudah Development photo)

The consequences of unsustainable tourism are far-reaching, ranging from the degradation of delicate ecosystems and biodiversity loss to the exploitation of local communities and cultural commodification. “The current trajectory is simply not viable,” Albasseet said.

“Encouraging sustainable tourism practices is no longer a choice but a necessity for the future of our planet and the travel industry itself … The industry’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, estimated at 8 percent globally, underscores the urgent need for transformative change.

“This is not simply about minimizing negative impacts; it’s about actively restoring and regenerating the destinations we cherish.”

Furthermore, he added: “These practices undermine the very foundation of the tourism industry, jeopardizing the natural and cultural assets that attract visitors in the first place.

“The increasing awareness of these issues among travelers, coupled with global commitments like the Paris Climate Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, further reinforces the need for the industry to embrace sustainability.”
 

 


The 11th Saudi Film Festival returns in April

The 11th Saudi Film Festival returns in April
Updated 14 February 2025
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The 11th Saudi Film Festival returns in April

The 11th Saudi Film Festival returns in April
  • Theme for 2025 edition is “Cinema of Identity,” exploring how film reflects and shapes individual, national and cultural identity

DHAHRAN: The 11th Saudi Film Festival will take place from April 17 to 24 at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, also known as Ithra, in Dhahran.

Organized by the Cinema Association, in partnership with Ithra and supported by the Film Commission of the Ministry of Culture, this year’s festival includes screenings, educational events and networking opportunities.

The theme for this edition is “Cinema of Identity,” exploring how film reflects and shapes individual, national and cultural identity.

The program will feature a mix of local and international films, with a particular focus on how these works navigate the complexities of identity in a globalized world.

The films selected for this program will examine how identity is influenced by heritage, cities and personal experiences, and highlight the challenges and transformations that individuals and societies undergo in response to these influences.

This year’s festival will honor Ibrahim Al-Hasawi, one of Saudi Arabia’s most renowned actors, whose legacy spans over three decades.

Al-Hasawi has been an influential figure in Saudi entertainment, contributing to numerous theatrical productions, TV shows like “Tash Ma Tash” and “Bayni Wa Baynak,” and films such as “Hajjan,” “Zero Distance,” and the recent “Hobal.”

The festival will celebrate his immense contributions to the arts and his significant role in shaping Saudi cinema.

In addition to the spotlight on Saudi cinema, the 11th Saudi Film Festival will feature a special program focused on Japanese cinema.

This segment will showcase a selection of independent Japanese films, offering audiences a chance to experience Japan’s unique cinematic traditions and cultural identity.

The Japanese program will further enhance the festival’s mission to foster cross-cultural dialogue and broaden the perspectives of Saudi audiences.

Throughout the festival, attendees will have the chance to immerse themselves in a wide range of activities beyond just screenings.

There will be panel discussions with industry experts, offering insights into the future of Saudi cinema and the evolving role of identity in filmmaking.

Masterclasses will be conducted by seasoned filmmakers and industry professionals, covering key aspects of the filmmaking process such as directing, cinematography and scriptwriting.

The festival will also provide opportunities for one-on-one meetings with experts, where filmmakers can receive personalized feedback and advice on their projects.

For those looking to take their work further, private pitching sessions will be available, giving filmmakers the chance to present their ideas to potential investors and distributors.

Additionally, book signings will give audiences the chance to meet authors and filmmakers who have contributed to the festival, deepening their understanding of the creative processes behind the films.

Tickets can be purchased on the Ithra website.


Jeddah celebrates global culinary extravaganza at Food Culture Festival

Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with the Quality of Life Program. (Supplied)
Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with the Quality of Life Program. (Supplied)
Updated 46 min 50 sec ago
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Jeddah celebrates global culinary extravaganza at Food Culture Festival

Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with the Quality of Life Program. (Supplied)
  • Festival heads west after successful events in Alkhobar and Riyadh
  • Workshops, musical performances, and global cuisine on offer

JEDDAH: After successful events in Alkhobar and Riyadh, the much-anticipated Food Culture Festival is taking place at Jeddah’s Wonder District from Feb. 12 to 16.

Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with the Quality of Life Program, the event showcases a rich blend of local and international culinary experiences.

The festival in Jeddah features four zones, each offering a different aspect of the culinary world.

Organized by the Culinary Arts Commission in partnership with the Quality of Life Program. (Supplied)

In the food exhibitors’ area, attendees can savor various cuisines, from traditional Saudi dishes to international delicacies, allowing them to embark on a gastronomic journey around the world without leaving the city.

Leo Wen, CEO and co-founder of Whoa Tea, which offers authentic Chinese drinks and sweets like Tang Hu Lu (candied fruit snack) and coconut cubes, said: “It’s exciting to introduce these unique flavors through this festival, and the response has been overwhelming.

“Our goal is not only to provide a delicious experience but also to share the rich heritage behind these drinks and desserts, showcasing the diversity of Chinese culinary traditions.”

FASTFACTS

• The festival in Jeddah features four zones, each offering a different aspect of the culinary world.

• In the food exhibitors’ area, attendees can savor various cuisines, from traditional Saudi dishes to international delicacies, allowing them to embark on a gastronomic journey around the world without leaving the city.

• The festival’s theater area features live performances, from guitar and vocal acts to Arabic music bands.

Noura Abdullah, founder of Soma, a Saudi brand known for its signature grape leaves, as well as dishes like grape leaves fatteh, musakhan, kibbeh, and fresh juices made from carefully selected ingredients, said: “Everything we serve is homemade, with our signature dish, the grape leaves, being particularly popular.

Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of culinary offerings from around the world. (Supplied)

“I started in Alkhobar, then expanded to Riyadh, and now, by participating in this festival in Jeddah, I’m exploring the possibility of franchising Soma.

“The positive feedback from visitors has been incredible, especially (for) the grape leaves. Their response has been very encouraging and motivates me to bring Soma to even more people.”

Ahmed Imran, owner of My Makan, the only Malaysian restaurant in Jeddah, told Arab News: “Festivals like this bring together diverse cultures, and food is the perfect medium to unite people from all walks of life.

Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of culinary offerings from around the world. (Supplied)

“It’s truly amazing to see such a celebration of global cuisines, and I’m excited to introduce authentic Malaysian dishes to the visitors. It’s also heartwarming to witness the positive response from the community towards Malaysian cuisine.”

The festival also welcomes food truck owners, offering them an opportunity to showcase their food and attract new customers.

Al-Baraa Yahy, who owns Protein Dose, a food truck based in Al-Safa district, said the festival has given her the opportunity to introduce her products to a wider audience.

Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of culinary offerings from around the world. (Supplied)

“I’m grateful for the chance to showcase my offerings through such a fantastic platform,” she said.

For those eager to enhance their culinary skills, the workshops area offers hands-on experiences with activities such as sushi making, food decoration, pasta crafting, and even food photography, with a special focus on the flavors of Singapore.

Live cooking demonstrations will also allow guests to witness the magic of food preparation firsthand.

Sadellah Zakaria, an Italian chef, and Mokhtar Mahdy, an Egyptian chef, teach festivalgoers how to make pasta like fettuccine and ravioli from scratch with their workshop.

“These workshops are a great way for attendees to not only learn valuable culinary skills but also connect with the craft of making fresh pasta. Even children can join and enjoy this immersive experience,” Zakaria said.

The festival’s theater area features live performances, from guitar and vocal acts to Arabic music bands and Indian Bharatanatyam dancers.

Additionally, roaming performances like living statues, an interactive parade, and a Chinese dragon dance add to the event’s festive atmosphere.

The kids’ area offers a chance for children to get involved in cooking workshops and farm activities, participate in friendly competitions, and unleash their creativity in a safe and educational environment.

Mohammed Hussein, who came along with his family said: “It’s great that the workshops let kids get involved and try things out for themselves. Plus, the festival has this cool passport challenge where you get a stamp every time you visit a different zone.”

Ghadeer Abdullah, a visitor from Makkah, said: “The best part of the festival is definitely the weather. It’s so pleasant that we’re enjoying all the zones. The kids’ zone is especially engaging. My children spent almost an hour completing the workshop, and they loved every minute of it.”

 


Focus on creating books for young readers at Jazan Book Fair

Focus on creating books for young readers at Jazan Book Fair
Updated 14 February 2025
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Focus on creating books for young readers at Jazan Book Fair

Focus on creating books for young readers at Jazan Book Fair
  • The aim of the workshop was to introduce the concept of short stories for young adults, what attracts them, and how their needs vary based on their age

JAZAN: The cultural program accompanying activities at Jazan Book Fair 2025, organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, featured a special workshop titled “Writing Short Stories for Young Adults,” presented by Noura Abiri.

The aim of the workshop was to introduce the concept of short stories for young adults, what attracts them, and how their needs vary based on their age, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The workshop explored methods for writing short stories for young adults, emphasizing the need for an engaging and fluid style that balances simplicity with depth, and touches on topics close to their interests, such as selecting an appealing and impactful idea relevant to youth, including themes such as friendship, courage, achieving dreams, self-acceptance, adventures, science fiction, or even social issues such as bullying or academic pressure.

It also highlighted the importance of creating a protagonist close to the reader’s world in age or experience.

The Jazan Book Fair 2025 is at the Prince Sultan Cultural Center until Feb. 17 and provides a rich cultural program featuring poetry evenings and literary discussions.

 


Saudi Arabia launches first recycling program for pilgrim garments

The scheme is a move toward sustainable religious practices and marks a new approach to handling pilgrim garments. (SPA)
The scheme is a move toward sustainable religious practices and marks a new approach to handling pilgrim garments. (SPA)
Updated 14 February 2025
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Saudi Arabia launches first recycling program for pilgrim garments

The scheme is a move toward sustainable religious practices and marks a new approach to handling pilgrim garments. (SPA)
  • The project is a partnership with the Saudi Investment Recycling Co., a leading waste management and circular economy company, and Tadweem, a pioneer in sustainable fashion

JEDDAH: The Saudi Fashion Commission launched its innovative “Sustainable Ihram” initiative at the Islamic Arts Biennale on Friday.

The scheme is a move toward sustainable religious practices and marks a new approach to handling pilgrim garments. It aims to transform discarded Ihram clothing into new, sustainable items by collecting and sorting textile waste from Hajj pilgrims.

The project is a partnership with the Saudi Investment Recycling Co., a leading waste management and circular economy company, and Tadweem, a pioneer in sustainable fashion.

Technical support comes from textile specialist Sanko Group, working in conjunction with Re&Up, which will provide innovative recycling technology to process the garments.