The Future of Cycling and Walking Infrastructure in Riyadh

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is changing rapidly. New roads, residential communities, shopping centres, parks, and public transport systems are transforming the city. Along with these developments, Riyadh is also focusing on something that is important for everyday life: making it easier for people to walk and cycle.

For many years, private cars have been a major part of daily transport in Riyadh. The city’s large distances, hot climate, and busy roads have made walking and cycling less common for everyday journeys. However, growing traffic, environmental concerns, and increasing interest in healthier lifestyles are creating a need for better alternatives.

Through projects such as Sports Boulevard, Green Riyadh, and neighbourhood improvement programmes, the city is developing dedicated cycling tracks, pedestrian pathways, shaded walking areas, and green public spaces.

These improvements are closely connected with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to improve quality of life and make cities more comfortable, sustainable, and accessible.

But what will the future of cycling and walking infrastructure in Riyadh look like? How will new pathways, trees, public transport, and urban planning change everyday travel? Let’s explore the major projects, benefits, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of cycling and walking infrastructure in Riyadh.

1. Why Does Riyadh Need Better Cycling and Walking Infrastructure?

Riyadh is a large and growing city. People travel every day to offices, schools, shopping areas, hospitals, and entertainment destinations. As the population and business activities increase, the demand for comfortable and reliable transport also grows.

Private cars provide convenience, but depending too much on them can lead to traffic congestion, air pollution, and longer travel times. Walking and cycling offer alternative ways to complete short journeys and enjoy outdoor spaces.

However, people need suitable infrastructure before they can choose these options confidently.

Good cycling and walking facilities should include:

• Dedicated pedestrian footpaths.
• Safe and clearly marked cycling lanes.
• Shaded routes and resting areas.
• Safe road crossings and traffic signals.
• Connections to public transport stations.
• Suitable lighting for evening use.
• Accessible routes for wheelchair users and families.

These facilities can make everyday travel more convenient while encouraging physical activity.

The aim is not to remove cars from Riyadh. Instead, it is to provide people with more transport choices and create neighbourhoods where walking and cycling are practical options.

2. Sports Boulevard Is Changing Active Travel in Riyadh

One of the most important projects shaping the future of cycling and walking in Riyadh is Sports Boulevard.

Launched in 2019, the project is planned as a 135-kilometre urban destination connecting Wadi Hanifah in the west with Wadi Al-Sulai in the east. It passes through different parts of the city and combines sports facilities, green spaces, cultural areas, and recreational destinations.

The Sports Boulevard Foundation manages this 135-kilometre park, which runs from Wadi Hanifah in the west to Wadi Al Sulai in the east along Prince Mohammed bin Salman Road. Once completed, it will have more than 220 kilometres of cycling tracks for beginners and professionals, 135 kilometres of walking paths, and separate trails for horse riding.

The project is designed to provide separate routes for different activities, including walking, running, cycling, and horse riding.

According to the official Sports Boulevard project information, its planned infrastructure includes:

• A pedestrian path extending along the entire project.
• An 85-kilometre cycling path for amateur riders.
• A 53-kilometre professional cycling track.
• More than 16 kilometres of equestrian trails.
• More than four million square metres of green areas.
• Approximately 120,000 trees.

The first phase of Sports Boulevard opened in February 2025 across five destinations, including Wadi Hanifah, the Promenade, the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University internal loop, and the first phase of Sands Sports Park. At that time, the project reported 83 kilometres of completed length and approximately 40% overall progress.

Sports Boulevard is important because it aims to make physical activity part of everyday city life rather than limiting cycling and walking to small parks or sports centres.

3. Dedicated Cycling Lanes Will Encourage More People to Ride

One of the biggest requirements for encouraging cycling is safety. Many people may enjoy riding bicycles, but they can feel uncomfortable sharing busy roads with cars and other large vehicles.

Dedicated cycling lanes can help solve this problem by providing cyclists with clearly marked spaces.

Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard includes cycling routes designed for both casual riders and professional cyclists. The city is also developing smaller cycling connections within neighbourhoods.

In September 2025, Riyadh Municipality announced improvements across four districts: Al-Rawdah, Al-Rawabi, Al-Suwaidi Al-Gharbi, and Al-Mughrizat. The programme included more than nine kilometres of cycling lanes alongside approximately 14 kilometres of pedestrian pathways.

These local routes are important because not every cyclist needs a long sports track. Some people simply want to ride to a nearby park, shopping area, or community facility.

Future cycling infrastructure could include:

• Clearly separated bicycle lanes.
• Safe connections between neighbourhoods.
• Better road crossings.
• Bicycle parking facilities.
• Direction signs and route maps.
• Lighting for evening cycling.
• Rest areas along longer routes.

The more connected these facilities become, the easier it may be for people to include cycling in their regular routines. 

4. Walking-Friendly Streets Will Improve Daily Life

Walking is the simplest form of transport, but it requires more than a pavement beside a road. People need safe crossings, comfortable footpaths, shade, seating, and convenient access to daily services.

Riyadh is working to make selected neighbourhoods more pedestrian-friendly through improvements to streets, public spaces, and parks.

The four-district improvement programme announced in September 2025 is one example. It covers an area of approximately 376,000 square metres and includes pedestrian pathways, cycling lanes, landscaped areas, public plazas, and parking facilities.

These improvements can help residents walk more easily within their neighbourhoods.

For example, a person may be able to walk to a nearby park, visit a local shop, or meet friends without needing to drive for every short journey.

Good pedestrian planning should also consider people with different needs, including children, older adults, parents with pushchairs, and people who use wheelchairs.

The future of walking infrastructure in Riyadh will depend on creating continuous, accessible routes rather than isolated pedestrian paths. 

5. Green Riyadh Will Make Walking More Comfortable

One of the biggest challenges for walking and cycling in Riyadh is the climate. During summer, temperatures can become very high, making outdoor activities uncomfortable, especially during the middle of the day.

Riyadh’s hot and dry weather can make walking and cycling difficult. To make outdoor activities more comfortable, the Green Riyadh project is planting millions of trees across the city. These trees will provide shade and help lower temperatures by 1.5°C to 2°C, making it easier for people to enjoy outdoor activities throughout more of the year.

The Green Riyadh programme is designed to increase vegetation and green spaces across the capital. It aims to plant more than 7.5 million trees and improve the availability of parks, gardens, and green corridors.

Trees can provide shade, reduce direct exposure to sunlight, and improve the experience of walking and cycling.

The programme also includes projects that connect neighbourhoods with parks and landscaped spaces.

For example, the Dhahrat Namar Park development includes plans for 52 kilometres of walking trails and a 33-kilometre cycling track. Its design includes thousands of trees and shaded pedestrian areas.

In October 2026, the Royal Commission for Riyadh City reported that three major Green Riyadh park projects in Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Rimal, and Al-Munsiyah had reached more than 85% construction completion. The projects include cycling and skating tracks, sports facilities, and extensive planting.

These developments show how green spaces and active transport can work together to create a more comfortable urban environment.

6. The Riyadh Metro Will Support Walking and Cycling Connections

Walking and cycling infrastructure becomes more useful when it connects with public transport. People may not be able to cycle or walk the entire distance of every journey, especially in a large city such as Riyadh.

New cycling and micro-mobility lanes are being connected to the Riyadh Metro network. This will make it easier for people to walk or cycle as part of their daily travel instead of using them only for exercise or leisure.

This is where the Riyadh Metro can make a difference.

The metro officially began its gradual opening in December 2024. It includes six lines covering approximately 176 kilometres and serving 84 stations.

The network connects residential, commercial, educational, healthcare, and other important areas of the city.

Pedestrian routes around metro stations can help passengers reach nearby destinations. Bicycle parking and safe cycling connections could also make it easier for people to combine cycling with public transport.

For example, someone may cycle from home to a metro station, park their bicycle, and complete the rest of the journey by train.

This combination can reduce the need to use a private car for the entire trip.

Future transport planning will benefit from better connections between:

• Metro stations and pedestrian paths.
• Cycling routes and public transport stops.
• Residential areas and workplaces.
• Parks and recreational destinations.
• Shopping areas and community facilities.

The metro provides an important foundation for a more connected transport system in Riyadh.

7. Smart Technology Will Improve Cycling and Walking Routes

Modern infrastructure is not only about building roads and pathways. Technology can also help make these routes safer, easier to use, and better maintained.

Smart city systems can collect information about traffic, pedestrian movement, lighting, and public facilities.

In the future, Riyadh could use more connected systems to improve active travel.

Some possible applications include:

Smart traffic signals: Sensors may help adjust crossing times according to traffic and pedestrian activity.

Digital route maps: Mobile applications can guide people towards cycling paths, parks, and pedestrian-friendly routes.

Smart lighting: Connected lighting can improve visibility along selected pathways.

Maintenance monitoring: Sensors and digital reporting tools can help identify damaged surfaces, broken lights, or other problems.

Traffic information: Data can help planners understand how people use cycling and walking routes.

Technology is most useful when it solves practical problems. A smart application is not enough on its own. People still need safe paths, clear signs, and well-maintained public spaces.

8. Cycling and Walking Can Improve Public Health

One of the main reasons for developing active transport infrastructure is to encourage healthier lifestyles.

Walking and cycling are simple physical activities that can be included in everyday routines. People do not always need to visit a gym or sports centre to remain active.

Regular walking can help improve cardiovascular health, support weight management, and strengthen muscles. Cycling can also support fitness and improve stamina.

Better public spaces may encourage more people to spend time outdoors.

Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard supports this aim by combining active travel routes with sports facilities and recreational areas.

The project is designed for different types of users, including:

• People who enjoy casual cycling.
• Professional and amateur runners.
• Families looking for outdoor activities.
• Children learning to ride bicycles.
• Visitors interested in recreational exercise.
• People who want to walk in green surroundings.

The wider benefit is that physical activity can become a normal part of city life rather than something people do only on special occasions.

9. Walking and Cycling Can Support Environmental Sustainability

Transport has an important connection with urban air quality and energy consumption. Private cars use fuel or electricity and occupy significant road and parking space.

Walking and cycling produce no direct vehicle exhaust emissions while people are travelling. They can also reduce the need for short car journeys when suitable routes are available.

Increasing the use of active transport may help Riyadh:

• Reduce traffic pressure on selected roads.
• Lower emissions from short car journeys.
• Improve local air quality.
• Reduce demand for parking.
• Encourage more efficient use of public spaces.
• Support wider environmental goals.

However, building cycling tracks and pedestrian paths alone will not automatically reduce car use. These routes need to connect useful destinations and offer a convenient alternative to driving.

Green Riyadh can support this change by connecting pathways with parks, trees, and landscaped public spaces. 

10. Safer Streets Will Be Essential for the Future

Safety is one of the most important factors influencing whether people choose to walk or cycle.

Cyclists need protection from fast-moving traffic, while pedestrians need safe pavements and crossings. Poor lighting, damaged pathways, unclear signs, and vehicles parked across footpaths can discourage people from using active transport.

Future infrastructure should include:

• Clearly separated cycle lanes where appropriate.
• Safe pedestrian crossings.
• Traffic-calming measures near schools and parks.
• Proper lighting.
• Clear route markings.
• Smooth and maintained surfaces.
• Accessible ramps and crossings.
• Safe bicycle parking.

Riyadh’s Accessibility Code also provides guidance on designing pedestrian routes for people with disabilities. It considers features such as clear pathways, appropriate planting, tree placement, and accessible entrances.

These details matter because a city should be comfortable and usable for everyone, not only people who can walk or cycle without assistance.

11. The Business and Tourism Opportunities of Active Mobility

Better cycling and walking infrastructure can also support local businesses and tourism.

Parks, cycling routes, and pedestrian destinations can attract visitors who want to exercise, relax, explore the city, or spend time with family.

Sports Boulevard is particularly important because it combines recreation, sports, public spaces, and commercial opportunities.

As these facilities develop, businesses may find opportunities in areas such as:

• Bicycle rental and repair services.
• Sports equipment shops.
• Cafés and restaurants near popular routes.
• Fitness and cycling events.
• Guided outdoor activities.
• Bicycle maintenance and training.
• Sports tourism and recreational services.

Neighbourhood pathways can also make it easier for people to reach local shops and restaurants.

These opportunities show how active mobility can contribute to more than transport. It can support local economic activity and create new public destinations.

12. Challenges Facing Cycling and Walking in Riyadh

Summer temperatures in Riyadh can reach 50°C, making outdoor activities difficult during the day. To make walking and cycling possible throughout the year, the city needs more shaded areas, cooling mist systems, and proper lighting for people using these spaces at night.

Although Riyadh is investing in new infrastructure, the city still faces challenges in encouraging everyday walking and cycling.

High summer temperatures: Extreme heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable for long periods. Shade, water facilities, and suitable operating times are important.

Long travel distances: Some destinations are far apart, making walking or cycling impractical without public transport connections.

Road safety: Cyclists need safe routes that protect them from fast traffic and complicated intersections.

Maintenance: Footpaths and cycling lanes need regular cleaning, repairs, lighting checks, and clear markings.

Public awareness: People may need time to become familiar with new routes and develop confidence in cycling and walking.

Network connectivity: Isolated cycling tracks are less useful than connected routes that allow people to travel between important destinations.

Solving these challenges requires continued cooperation between transport authorities, urban planners, developers, and local communities.

13. What Does the Future of Cycling and Walking Infrastructure in Riyadh Look Like?

The future of active transport in Riyadh will depend on connecting major projects with everyday neighbourhood needs.

Sports Boulevard may provide a major city-wide network for recreation and cycling, while Green Riyadh can add shaded routes and parks. Neighbourhood improvement projects can connect residential streets with local facilities, and the Riyadh Metro can help complete longer journeys.

Some important developments to watch include:

• More dedicated cycling and walking routes.
• Better connections between metro stations and neighbourhoods.
• More shaded pedestrian pathways.
• Additional parks with cycling facilities.
• Safer crossings and accessible streets.
• Better bicycle parking and rental services.
• Improved lighting and smart route management.
• More outdoor sports and cycling events.

The most important goal is to make walking and cycling practical choices for ordinary daily journeys, not just recreational activities.

If people can safely walk to a nearby shop, cycle to a park, or reach a metro station without difficulty, active mobility can become a more natural part of city life.

Conclusion: A More Walkable and Cycle-Friendly Riyadh

The future of cycling and walking infrastructure in Riyadh is connected with the city’s wider plan to become greener, healthier, and more accessible.

Projects such as Sports Boulevard, Green Riyadh, neighbourhood improvement programmes, and the Riyadh Metro are creating opportunities to change how people move around the capital.

Dedicated cycling routes, shaded footpaths, safer crossings, green parks, and better public transport connections can encourage residents to spend more time outdoors and depend less on private cars for selected journeys.

However, long-term success will depend on keeping these facilities safe, connected, comfortable, and well maintained. Riyadh’s hot climate also means that shade, water access, and heat-aware design must remain important parts of future planning.

The future of cycling and walking infrastructure in Riyadh is not simply about building longer paths. It is about creating a city where people can move safely, enjoy public spaces, stay active, and connect with their communities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the future of cycling and walking infrastructure in Riyadh?

The future includes more cycling tracks, shaded pedestrian paths, green parks, safe crossings, and connections with public transport. Projects such as Sports Boulevard and Green Riyadh are supporting this development.

2. What is Riyadh Sports Boulevard?

Sports Boulevard is a major urban project planned to stretch approximately 135 kilometres across Riyadh. It includes walking routes, amateur and professional cycling tracks, equestrian paths, sports facilities, and green spaces.

3. Is cycling popular in Riyadh?

Cycling is gaining more attention as the city develops dedicated routes and recreational facilities. Sports Boulevard and neighbourhood cycling tracks are helping create better opportunities for amateur and professional riders.

4. How does Green Riyadh support walking and cycling?

Green Riyadh is increasing the number of parks, trees, green corridors, and shaded areas. These improvements can make outdoor activities more comfortable and connect residential communities with recreational spaces.

5. How will the Riyadh Metro support cycling and walking?

The metro can connect people travelling longer distances, while walking and cycling routes can help them reach stations and complete shorter journeys without using private cars.

6. What are the benefits of cycling and walking infrastructure?

It supports physical activity, improves access to public spaces, provides transport alternatives, and may reduce traffic and emissions from some short car journeys.

7. Why is shade important for cycling and walking in Riyadh?

Riyadh experiences high summer temperatures. Trees, shaded structures, and resting areas can make outdoor routes more comfortable and help protect users from direct sunlight.

8. Are there dedicated cycling routes in Riyadh?

Yes. Sports Boulevard includes dedicated cycling routes, and Riyadh Municipality has also announced additional cycling lanes as part of neighbourhood improvement programmes.

9. What challenges affect cycling and walking in Riyadh?

The main challenges include high temperatures, long distances, road safety, limited shade in some areas, route connectivity, and the need for regular maintenance.

10. How can Riyadh become more pedestrian-friendly?

The city can improve footpaths, create safe road crossings, add trees and shade, connect neighbourhoods with public transport, and ensure that routes are accessible to people of different ages and abilities.

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