Riyadh, from urban nightmare to green oasis?
Javier Arpa Fernandez (TU Delft - Public Building and Housing Design)
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Abstract
Riyadh, a sprawling car-centric city, faces challenges of rapid urbanization, traffic congestion, and limited public greenspaces amid a growing population projected to reach 10 million by 2030. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Vision 2030 aims to address these issues through transformative projects like a 176-kilometer metro network, King Salman Park, and Green Riyadh, which will plant 75 million trees. While investments in infrastructure and green spaces promise a more livable city, true transformation requires shifts in mindset, encouraging residents to embrace density, public life, and sustainable urban living. Small, community-driven initiatives like Diriyah’s Shamalat Cultural Center highlight the potential for localized change.