Your workouts just got a lot more scenic.
The Kingdom is no stranger to jaw-dropping projects moving from renders to reality. Last year, it celebrated the opening of the Red Sea’s first resort, the Shebara Island. Building up on the hype, the regenerative tourism location also opened Desert Rock.
Now, it is the Saudi capital that is rejoicing because the first phase of the gorgeous-gorgeous (its so pretty, you gotta say it twice) Riyadh Sports Boulevard has finally opened.
The exciting news was announced by the board of directors of the Sports Boulevard Foundation which is chaired by His Royal Highness Prime Minister and Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.
First announced back in 2019, the ambitious project aims to be a vibrant hub that promotes a healthy lifestyle and a zen place to practice wellness.
Not only does the project have five distinct destinations, it is also set to be home to the world’s largest sports tower because its either go big or go home and Saudi always goes big.
So, lace up your trainers and put on your most breathable shirts, here is everything to know about the opening.
Riyadh Sports Boulevard
Riyadh Sports Boulevard is a vibrant destination that will welcome everyone—from pedestrians and cyclists, both seasoned and casual, to horseback riders, nature lovers, and even art enthusiasts. With its well-designed pathways and dynamic spaces, it fosters a healthy and active lifestyle while seamlessly blending sports, culture, and sustainability.
Spread across various landmarks, the mostly open-air space has 50+ sports facilities, over 3,000,000sqm of investment areas, and at least 4,000,000sqm of green spaces.
Located in western Riyadh, Wadi Hanifah is one of the first destinations to be completed.
Riyadh Sports Boulevard location
The boulevard extends through the city of Riyadh, not unlike the iconic Central Park in New York City, and is hence going to be accessible from multiple locations. With the first phase being completed, it is now accessible through Wadi Hanifah.
Riyadh Sports Boulevard opening date
The first phase was inaugurated on on Wednesday, February 26.
Riyadh Sports Boulevard landmarks
- Wadi Hanifah Trail
Spanning 13.4 km, this scenic route is perfect for a peaceful walk or a thrilling bike ride, with lush greenery and dedicated paths for both pedestrians and cyclists. - Cycling Bridge & The Promenade
A stunning one-kilometer pedestrian walkway and a 771-meter cycling path connect Wadi Hanifah to the Promenade, a four-kilometer stretch inspired by Salmani architecture, complete with cycling lanes, playgrounds, water features, and cozy rest spots. - Arts Tower
A creative landmark at a key city intersection, this striking tower reimagines vintage high-voltage electricity towers, blending history with contemporary design. - Princess Nourah University Loop
A 20-kilometer track winding through the university campus, seamlessly integrating walking and cycling paths for an active, refreshing experience. - Sands Sports Park
Adventure awaits near King Khalid International Airport with mountain biking trails and scenic hiking routes that embrace the desert landscape.
With 83 km already complete, the 135-km Sports Boulevard is transforming Riyadh into a hub of health, fitness, and vibrant city living. Once finished, the project will feature a sprawling 20-square-kilometer desert park, event spaces, a grand show piazza, and state-of-the-art movie theaters—all with 40% of the work already completed.
More exciting openings in Riyadh
Want to get to the Sports Boulevard without getting stuck in traffic? Riyadh metro is where you need to be. Speaking of the metro, you can use the interconnected system to get to KAFD where the recently opened Chotto Matte is serving its signature Japanese and Peruvian flavors.
First phase now open. @sportsblvdsa.
