Across Riyadh’s plains, a new kind of cityscape is taking form, shaped by creativity, community, and movement. The Sports Boulevard Project stretches 135 kilometres from Wadi Hanifah to Wadi Al-Sulai, connecting cycling paths, horse trails, green parks, and cultural landmarks.
It reimagines how the city grows and connects, turning daily activity into a lifestyle and creativity into part of the skyline. The project reflects Vision 2030’s goal of building cities that are healthier, more vibrant, and livable.
A Milestone for Vision 2030
The Sports Boulevard stands as a national statement. By combining sport, wellness, and the environment, it directly supports the Quality-of-Life Program, one of Vision 2030’s core initiatives.
What it brings to Saudi Arabia:
- Active cities: Riyadh becomes a centre for wellness, mobility, and outdoor recreation.
- Cultural momentum: Art and architecture move into public spaces, turning daily movement into a cultural experience.
- Economic opportunity: Investment zones along the corridor attract private partnerships and long-term tourism.
- Environmental leadership: Over 4.4 million m² of green space support Riyadh’s tree-planting and emission-reduction goals.
This is not just city building; it is a new way of living.
Latest Developments
In early 2025, the project hit a historic milestone:
- Phase One opened on 26 February 2025, unveiling 83 km of completed paths and five destinations.
- In June 2025, the Arts Tower rose at the intersection of Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road and Prince Turki Road, standing as a beacon of creativity and design.
- Construction of the Global Sports Tower, set to host over 30 disciplines, continues, alongside the Eco Destination and Sands Sports Park.
- Completion of all destinations is targeted between 2027 and 2029, with each opening bringing new green corridors, events, and investment plots.
Each milestone reinforces Riyadh’s evolution into a global benchmark for sustainable urban design and cultural inclusivity.
Also read about Sports in Saudi Arabia with Bayut-KSA.
Core Components of the Sports Boulevard
Every stretch of the Boulevard offers a distinct experience:
- Wadi Hanifah: 14 km of restored valley with walking, cycling, and horse trails.
- Promenade: A mixed-use stretch of cafés, plazas, and shaded paths.
- Urban Wadi & Entertainment Zones: Event areas and community hubs.
- Global Sports Tower: A vertical complex hosting 30 sports disciplines.
- Eco Destination & Sands Sports Park: Outdoor education and sustainability showcases.
Together, these areas create a continuous green artery through Riyadh, a rare achievement in desert urbanism.
Investment and Recognition
Part of four mega-projects led by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, the Sports Boulevard contributes to an overall investment of US $23 billion (≈ SR 86 billion).
It has earned global recognition, including:
- Mega Project of the Year (2024)
- King Salman Charter for Architecture and Urbanism Award (2024)
- ActiveScore Platinum Certification (2024)
These honours position the Boulevard as a benchmark in sustainable design and urban planning.
Urban Impact of Sports Boulevard Project
The Sports Boulevard has already begun to influence how people experience the city:
- Families now enjoy open-air trails and community parks once rare in the city.
- Local cafés, art spaces, and bike rentals are bringing new life to the Promenade.
- Homes near the Boulevard are in growing demand for their views and accessibility.
- Public art and lighting have turned the corridor into a vibrant showcase of Saudi creativity.
A new urban culture is being written across Riyadh, one kilometer at a time.
How to Experience the Sports Boulevard
- Visit open zones like Wadi Hanifah and the Promenade for cycling and leisure.
- Check sportsboulevard.sa for maps and upcoming phases.
- Join guided tours and cultural events at key destinations.
- Developers can explore investment opportunities in the surrounding zones.
Discover Riyadh’s New Chapter with Bayut KSA
The Sports Boulevard Project is shaping a modern rhythm for Riyadh, one built on movement, culture, and sustainability. As its destinations come to life, nearby communities are evolving into vibrant, connected spaces.
We also recommend visiting the Bayut KSA Blog for further comprehensive insights and updates on investment opportunities in the Kingdom, and to explore how to Invest in Saudi.
