Riyadh Unveils Sports Boulevard Phase One: A New Era for Fitness and Lifestyle

TDT | Manama

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The first phase of Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard opens, transforming the city into a hub for athletics and community living.

Riyadh took a giant step toward becoming a global destination for sports and lifestyle with the opening of the first phase of the Sports Boulevard on March 3, 2025. Stretching across the city, this ambitious project is already 40 percent complete, with 83 km of its route now open to the public, inviting residents and visitors to embrace a healthier, more active way of life.

A Pathway to Connection

The Sports Boulevard, a vision launched by King Salman in March 2019, spans over 135 km, connecting Wadi Hanifah in the west to Wadi Al-Sulai in the east via Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road. Once fully completed, it will stand as the world’s largest linear park, weaving together pathways for pedestrians, cyclists, and amateur athletes, along with horse trails and diverse sports facilities. Led by the Sports Boulevard Foundation (SBF) and chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the project aligns with Saudi Vision 2030’s Quality-of-Life Program, aiming to create greener, more sustainable cities that inspire activities like walking, cycling, and horse riding.

Five Destinations to Explore

This first phase introduces five key areas: Wadi Hanifah, the Promenade, a section at the intersection of Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Rd. and Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Rd., the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University internal loop, and the initial phase of Sands Sports Park. Wadi Hanifah, stretching 13.4 km from Al-Olab Dam to Jeddah Road, offers pedestrian paths, cycling and equestrian trails, green spaces, and rest areas, passing through the historic Diriyah Gate project. A standout feature is the Cycling Bridge at the intersection of King Khalid Road and Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road, linking Wadi Hanifah to the Promenade with a 1 km pedestrian walkway and a 771-meter cycling track.

A Space for Everyone

The Promenade, a 4 km stretch, reflects the project’s Salmani architectural style with its dedicated cycling paths, green spaces, water features, walking trails, playgrounds, and retail outlets. Meanwhile, Sands Sports Park, southeast of King Khalid International Airport, caters to adventure seekers with cycling paths, mountain bike trails, BMX tracks, and hiking routes. Its centerpiece, the Najdi Flower, is a 45-km professional cycling route, set amid 350,000 sq. meters of rehabilitated sand dunes, complemented by retail outlets and bike rental centers. Future phases promise even more sports facilities to elevate the experience.

Not Just a Park

The Sports Boulevard isn’t just about athletics—it’s about transforming Riyadh into one of the world’s most livable cities. By blending sports with cultural, artistic, and environmental elements, the project invites people to connect with their city in new ways. Whether it’s a family stroll along the Promenade, a challenging ride on the Najdi Flower, or a quiet moment in Wadi Hanifah’s green spaces, there’s something here for everyone. As Riyadh continues to grow, this boulevard is a reminder of what’s possible when vision meets action—a space where community and movement come together.

What’s Next?

With 40 percent of the project already done, the SBF is pushing forward to complete the remaining phases, promising more destinations and facilities to enhance Riyadh’s landscape. For now, locals and visitors can explore these five vibrant areas, a taste of the city’s future as a global hub for athletics and lifestyle. Keep an eye on Coliseum for updates as this transformative project unfolds.