Natural Environment

The city has many natural sites and gardens among its districts. Most of these natural areas are located in the western part of the city. Also, there are many sensitive environmental areas at the north and south of the city with abundant vegetation, tree cover and local bushes. Also, there are many open areas that had been cultivated, like Wadi Hanifa, and in areas tributaries have been developed and revegetated. These areas, boasting a length of 120 km, now form the fresh air and the public park for the citizens. Also, main gardens and parks projects have been accomplished in the city such as Salam Park in downtown, King Salman’s Safari Park in Banban, King Abdullah Park in Malaz, and others. Also, 55 municipal squares were implemented within districts for the entertainment of citizens. Currently, Wadi El-sale is being rehabilitated to become an open area at the east of Riyadh with a length of 112 km. However, afforestation projects are still not enough to meet the environmental requirements of the city due to high air pollution especially the dust. Therefore, more efforts are needed to improve the urban environment, reduce pollution, and improve the local climate.
Furthermore, wildlife faces a huge challenge due to urban growth and its associated activities as a lot of wildlife aspects within the urban area are affected due to the shrinkage of vegetation cover in the valleys, reefs and the gardens as a result of urban crawl, non-organized recreational activities, gazing, poaching, etc.