Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The Sports Boulevard Foundation (SBF) has announced the successful launch of Phase I of its ambitious Sports Boulevard project in Riyadh, featuring five key destinations. This milestone brings the total completed length of the mega project to 83 km, with overall progress reaching 40%.
The Sports Boulevard aims to enhance Riyadh’s global standing and position the city among the world’s most livable destinations. It plays a crucial role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by promoting physical, mental, and social well-being while creating a vibrant community. Residents and visitors will benefit from a high quality of life, an active lifestyle, and an inviting environment, as outlined by SBF.
The first phase was announced on February 26, 2025, at a meeting of the Sports Boulevard Foundation Board of Directors, chaired by HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The launch includes five key destinations: Wadi Hanifah, the Promenade, the intersection of Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road and Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Road, the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University internal loop, and the first phase of Sands Sports Park.
This milestone represents a significant advancement in Riyadh’s transformative developments, following the project’s initial launch by King Salman bin Abdulaziz in 2019. HRH the Crown Prince continues to provide dedicated support for the project.
The opening is a part of the foundation’s broader vision to create a sustainable urban renaissance along an environmental artery that connects the west and east of Riyadh. The project empowers both residents and visitors to actively engage in various sports, fostering a more dynamic and healthy lifestyle.
Wadi Hanifah, the first completed destination, spans 13.4 km from Al Olab Dam to Jeddah Road, passing through the Diriyah Gate project. The area features pedestrian paths, cycling and equestrian trails, green spaces, and rest areas. Connecting Wadi Hanifah to the Promenade is the iconic Cycling Bridge, located at the intersection of King Khalid Road and Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road. The bridge offers a 1 km pedestrian path and a 771-meter cycling path, promoting safe and sustainable mobility.
The Promenade, stretching 4 km, adheres to the Sports Boulevard’s urban design inspired by Salmani architecture. It offers cycling paths, rest stops, lush green spaces, walking trails, children’s playgrounds, and retail outlets, including bicycle rentals and accessories.
The Arts Tower, located at the intersection of Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road and Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Road, is another key landmark. Standing 300 meters tall, the tower’s colorful geometric panels create mesmerizing reflections, making it a focal point for visitors.
Additionally, a 20 km internal loop track at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University features dedicated cycling and pedestrian pathways, enhancing accessibility across the university’s facilities.
Sands Sports Park, located southeast of King Khalid International Airport, completes the first phase. It features cycling paths, mountain bike trails, BMX tracks, scenic hiking, and equestrian trails. The park’s signature cycling route, the Najdi Flower, stretches over 45 km. More than 350,000 sq m of sand dunes have been rehabilitated, further enhancing the park’s natural landscape. It also offers bicycle rentals and accessory shops.
Looking ahead, future phases will introduce more sports facilities and buildings, enhancing the visitor experience. The five destinations are open to the public starting February 27, 2025.
In addition to the sports-related developments, the Sports Boulevard Foundation previously opened the Prince Turki bin Abdulaziz Al-Awwal Road Underpass to improve traffic flow and mobility in Riyadh. Construction is ongoing across remaining project destinations, including the Promenade’s subsequent phases, the Urban Wadi Destination, and key road underpasses. All developments are progressing according to the approved project schedule.
