Work is well under way on the Sports Boulevard, a monumental project poised to transform Riyadh’s urban fabric and redefine how residents experience the city.

Phased openings of its key components including the Cycling Bridge, Promenade, Sand Sports Park and Prince Nourah Inner Loop are set to begin this year.

Spanning an impressive 135-plus km along Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road, this visionary initiative is designed to bring a healthier, more vibrant lifestyle to the heart of the kingdom’s capital.

The legacy project, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, aims at making Riyadh one of the most livable cities in the world. By blending innovation, sustainability, and community well-being, it is set to become the world’s largest linear park and a cornerstone of Riyadh’s transformation. From recreational spaces for events and activities to cultural venues, the Sports Boulevard has been designed to ensure there is something for everyone.

The Sports Boulevard will feature a network of safe, landscaped pathways designed for cycling, walking, and horse riding, spanning diverse landscapes from Wadi Hanifah in the west to Wadi Al-Sulai in the east.

With over 220 km of cycling tracks and more than 135 km of pedestrian pathways, it is set to encourage an active lifestyle for residents of all ages. This ground-breaking project incorporates over 4.4 million sq m of greenery and 170,000 newly planted trees, dramatically increasing the city’s green spaces.

“The Sports Boulevard is redefining what urban spaces can achieve, seamlessly blending recreation, culture and sustainability to enrich the lives of Riyadh’s residents and visitors,” Jayne McGivern, the CEO of the Sports Boulevard Foundation, tells Gulf Construction.

“Our mission is to create a vibrant destination that not only transforms the city but also fosters a deeper connection between people and their surroundings, leaving an enduring legacy for future generations,” she adds.

Beyond its environmental impact, the Sports Boulevard’s design reflects Riyadh’s heritage through Salmani architectural principles, seamlessly merging authenticity with modernity.

The Sports Boulevard will host many different areas, each offering unique experiences and attractions. These range from the Urban Wadi that will feature shaded play areas, picnic spots, and even kayaking zones, to the Sands Sports Park that will cater to adventure enthusiasts with mountain biking and hiking trails, to the Promenade, that will serve as a hub for retail, leisure, and relaxation, providing residents with a vibrant space to unwind.

The Promenade is distinguished by the Cycling Bridge, an architectural marvel stretching over 900 m and connecting its visitors from Wadi Hanifa to Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road, providing safe passage for both pedestrians and cyclists.

Among the project’s highlights is the Global Sports Tower, a cutting-edge landmark that will host over 30 sports facilities, including the world’s highest indoor climbing wall at 98 m. Fully digitised and with a circuit of 250 m, athletes can enjoy a unique training experience amidst one of the best views of Riyadh. Standing 130-m high, the Global Sports Tower is set to be the tallest sports tower in the world. It encompasses a total built-up area of 84,000 sq m.

The tower is distinguished by its unique architectural design that applies to the Sports Boulevard Design Code, driven by the principles of Salmani architecture, which is based on both originality and modernity.

Sustainability

Sustainability is woven into every aspect of the Sports Boulevard. With renewable energy integration, expanded biodiversity, and enhanced air quality through reduced carbon emissions, the project is a blueprint for eco-friendly urban development. Its commitment to sustainability is further evidenced by a 62 per cent increase in Riyadh’s green space share per capita, providing a healthier and more connected city for future generations, according to the Sports Boulevard Foundation.

The foundation is dedicated to involving residents at every step of this transformative journey. Its Community Information Centre (CIC) has toured several neighbourhoods, engaging thousands of residents through interactive exhibits and virtual reality experiences. These efforts not only showcase the project’s benefits but also strengthen the bond between the Boulevard and the people of Riyadh.

The Sports Boulevard is steadily shaping up to become a landmark of innovation and wellness. By its full completion in 2029, the development will not only transform Riyadh’s urban landscape but also serve as a bold testament to the kingdom’s vision of creating vibrant, inclusive spaces that enhance quality of life and celebrate cultural heritage.