Salam Park an island of serenity

Salam Park is one of the most popular destinations in the Saudi capital, especially during weekends when families head there to spend quality time together.
“Salam Park represents one of the rare natural spots in Riyadh. With a total area of 312,000 square meters, the park offers various recreational facilities,” said Abu Ali, a Saudi father of three.
Ali, who hails from Madinah, said he takes his family to the park, where they picnic and enjoy the outdoors under date trees.
He added that he and his family have visited many recreational areas in the city but Salam Park remains one of their favorite destinations.
Jannette Arenque, a teacher, also enjoys visiting the park with her husband and two sons.
“Visiting Salam Park is our way of bonding as a family by spending quality time together. While the children play with abandon, pointing things they see in nature, we enjoy the peaceful view,” she said.
“Our visits to the park allow us to get to know our boys better and spend time talking to them,” she said.
Arenque noted that their visit to the park leaves the entire family refreshed and ready for the working week ahead of them.
She added that their visit to Salam Park is incomplete without a boat ride on the lake.
Syed Iqbal, a Pakistani who works in a publishing company, said the park provides an opportunity for city residents to escape the traffic congestion and commotion and enjoy nature.
Salam Park is located parallel to the Rule of Palace in the south of Riyadh, bordering King Fahd Road on the west, Tariq bin Ziad Road on the north, Salam Road on the east and Aseer Road on the south.
Previously, the park was a privately owned farm known for its date palms, encompassing a residential palace, various buildings and a mosque more than 70 years old.
Due to the strategic location of the farm and the need for parks and open areas, it was decided that the farm be expropriated to convert it to what has come to be known as Salam Park.