Qatif: 1.7 million square meters of green spaces and 185 parks within Vision 2030
The Qatif Governorate Municipality continues to shape a new urban and environmental landscape in the Eastern Province, announcing a significant leap forward in its urban development and landscaping projects, with total green spaces reaching 1.7 million square meters . These vast areas are distributed across 185 public parks and three main waterfronts, in a strategic move aimed at enhancing quality of life and achieving the objectives of the "Saudi Green Initiative," stemming from the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Historical context and an ambitious national vision
These projects are of particular importance given the historical and geographical significance of Qatif Governorate, historically known as a fertile agricultural oasis and one of the oldest inhabited areas in the Arabian Gulf. The municipality's current efforts aim to restore the region's environmental identity, linking this rich heritage to the future through "quality of life" programs. Increasing green spaces is a fundamental pillar in addressing climate challenges, reducing temperatures, and decreasing carbon emissions, which will positively impact the public health of the population.
Plan 2026: Expansion of vegetation cover
In detailing the future plan, the Mayor of Qatif Governorate, Engineer Saleh Al-Qarni, revealed an ambitious strategy for 2026. This plan aims to plant 10,000 trees and 40,000 shrubs along the governorate's main thoroughfares and at key intersections. This intensive planting initiative seeks to increase per capita green cover and create a sustainable aesthetic that complements the urban development underway in the governorate's cities and towns.
Park projects and urban humanization
Engineer Al-Qarni confirmed that the municipality has made significant progress in implementing the new park projects, which cover a total area of 25,710 square meters , with an 80% completion rate. These projects were not limited to landscaping alone, but also focused on the concept of "humanizing cities" by providing pedestrian walkways exceeding 20,000 meters , thus promoting a culture of walking and community sports and combating sedentary lifestyles.
Waterfront development and entertainment
In parallel with the construction projects, the municipality has completed the installation of 15 state-of-the-art, high-safety recreational rides along the waterfronts of Qatif, Saihat, and Tarout. This initiative is part of the municipality's efforts to transform these waterfronts into integrated tourist and recreational centers, serving residents and visitors and providing safe family-friendly spaces, thus enhancing Qatif's position as a prominent tourist destination in the Eastern Province.
Sustainability and rehabilitation
Al-Qarni explained that the efforts don't stop at new projects, but extend to include maintenance and rehabilitation programs for existing parks to ensure their sustainability. These integrated efforts aim to create a healthy and vibrant environment that meets the aspirations of the population and addresses rapid demographic growth, making Qatif a model for green urban planning.
