Rafha Governorate in Saudi Arabia’s Northern Borders Region announced a landmark expansion of its public parks and green spaces on November 1 2026, adding more than 1.44 million square metres of green area as part of an urban renewal push tied to World Cities Day on October 31, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The latest figures from the government show the city now hosts roughly forty public parks and recreational areas, a network of three model walkways, and a suite of upgraded facilities designed to improve mobility and encourage social interaction among residents.
Each of the new parks incorporates native plant species and climate‑resilient landscaping, according to the Saudi Press Agency, creating habitats that support local biodiversity while providing shade and respite from the region’s harsh temperatures. Nearby seating areas and shaded kiosks allow families to linger, while informational panels educate visitors about local flora.
The three model walkways connect key neighbourhoods and commercial zones, offering safe, graded pathways for pedestrians, cyclists, and elders with mobility aids. The walkways are equipped with subtle lighting and signage to promote year‑round use. They also feature accessible ramps and anti‑slip surfaces, ensuring safe passage for all ages.
In addition to the green spaces, city planners have upgraded roads and extended pedestrian paths, creating a seamless network that reduces traffic congestion and encourages people to walk or cycle for short commutes. Signage indicates distances and estimated walking times, helping residents plan short, active trips.
Sports tracks flanking the parks have been reinstated or newly constructed, with a focus on durable, low‑maintenance surfaces that can host community sports leagues and informal games without compromising the surrounding vegetation.
The governorate’s approach prioritises efficient public spaces, stressing the importance of multi‑purpose venues that can host cultural events, markets, or informal gatherings while still accommodating environmental stewardship.
Officials emphasise that the expanded green infrastructure will foster healthier lifestyles by providing residents with accessible, safe places to exercise and relax, thus addressing rising concerns over air quality and heat stress in the area. Such design choices aim to offset heat islands and improve air quality, aligning with national climate objectives.
“By concentrating on enhanced mobility, social interaction, and recreation, we are turning public spaces into integral parts of daily life for residents,” noted a spokesperson for the Rafha Governorate, citing the government’s commitment to sustainable urban development.
Looking ahead, the city plans to integrate additional green corridors, water‑recycling features, and renewable‑energy lighting across its publicly owned land, ensuring that the urban renewal project sets a precedent for other cities in the region to follow. Governments partners include the Saudi Ministry of Environment and the World Bank's Climate Investment Funds to finance these green measures.
