RIYADH, 17 January 2005 — Salam Park is proving to be popular with people, notching 1.8 million visitors in its first year of operation. With the current, moderate temperatures, that number is expected to climb, but they may decide to stroll, picnic or select from a number of other activities designed for family fun.
Since its inauguration almost a year ago by Riyadh Governor Prince Salman, who is also the president of the Arriyadh Development Authority, the park has become the central attraction for families in the Central Province. Some 70 percent of the visitors are Saudis, with an average of 2,000 visitors per day. The figure peaks to 15,000 over the weekends.
The park has a lot to offer. Situated over an area of 253 sq. km., the park is a kaleidoscope of undulating hills mantled in greenery, a palm orchard, a 34 sq. km. manmade lake with a 25-meter high fountain in its midst and an environmental reserve that offers free recreational facilities and equipment such as rowing and a remote controlled model boat site as well as toy trains and others amusements.
It’s becoming the place to be in Riyadh. It is home to a number of cafes, restaurants and snack outlets, which make it an ideal place for families seeking privacy and serenity. The urban park was designed and executed by the ADA as part of its future vision to serve as green lungs of the city.
Meanwhile, Prince Sultan ibn Salman, secretary-general of the Supreme Commission for Tourism has observed that the climate in the Kingdom is ideal for winter recreational activities and festivals like Al-Ghadah in Onaizah, Al-Niarea in Eastern Province and Rijal Alma in Asir during Eid Al-Adha.
Such festivals and activities last year helped increase environmental awareness among people and drove home the need for conservation of Al-Ghada trees and other wildlife aspects of the region, he added.
