Investment in national parks in Riyadh and the Northern Borders with an area of 21 million square meters
The National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification has signed strategic investment contracts for the development of three national parks over a 25-year period, covering a total area exceeding 21 million square meters in the Riyadh and Northern Borders regions. This initiative aims to support nature tourism and achieve the ambitious environmental goals of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which prioritizes environmental sustainability.
Saudi Vision 2030 and the revitalization of national parks
These investment contracts come within the framework of the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to enhance vegetation cover and combat desertification, issues that have historically posed a challenge in the Arabian Peninsula due to its arid desert climate. Since the launch of the Saudi Green Initiative, the Kingdom has undergone a radical transformation in its approach to natural resource management, moving from traditional protection methods to sustainable investment and proactive development. Through the development of national parks, to rehabilitate degraded lands, increase green spaces, and curb sand encroachment, directly contributing to improved quality of life and providing natural recreational areas for citizens and residents.
Investment map and land distribution between Riyadh and the Northern Borders
The new investment projects are spread across three main locations to offer diverse environmental and tourism experiences:
- Arar National Park in the Northern Borders Region: Spanning a vast area exceeding 14 million square meters, the project aims to create an integrated tourism environment by establishing an operational and production zone, a logistics services zone, and providing service facilities, environmental activities, and recreational amenities that meet visitors' expectations and support the local economy in the northern region.
- Wathilan National Park in the Riyadh region: Spanning an investment area of 5 million square meters, this park is distinguished by its natural diversity and high heritage value. It will feature integrated campsites offering visitors exceptional tourism and recreational experiences suitable for all ages, blending the charm of the past with the beauty of nature.
- Saad National Park in the Riyadh region: It extends over an area of up to two million square meters, where investment focuses on enhancing the hospitality system and developing services, combining enjoyment of nature with activities of excitement and adventure, and providing integrated desert and heritage experiences supported by a road services center.
Environmental and economic dimensions of sustainable development
The importance of these projects extends beyond the environmental aspect, encompassing significant economic and social dimensions at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, these investments contribute to boosting domestic tourism, creating new job opportunities for Saudi youth in the fields of hospitality, the environment, and tour guiding, in addition to encouraging private sector participation in environmental projects.
Regionally and internationally, these steps reinforce Saudi Arabia's position as a regional leader in climate action and environmental protection, supporting international efforts to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions. Transforming these vast areas into sustainable green spaces serves as a model for balancing economic development with environmental conservation.
In closing, the National Center for Vegetation Development and Combating Desertification affirmed its tireless pursuit of quality partnerships with the governmental, private, and non-profit sectors to advance sustainable environmental development and expand green spaces in the Kingdom, ensuring a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come.
