If you go down to the park today, you’re in for a big surprise – just make sure you pack a picnic. Away from the glitz and glamour of Riyadh’s malls, restaurants and hotels are plenty of perfect places to perch while picking away at a platter in the sunshine.
Whether you’re looking for a sprawling field of grass a stone’s throw away from the city centre, a built-up area overlooking one of the Kingdom’s wadis or something further afield, Riyadh has plenty to offer for even the fussiest of finger-food feasters.
Build that banquet, pack your red-and-white gingham blanket and explore the city’s best parks for picnicking.
Salam Park
With its carefully manicured lawns full of lush greenery curving around a giant lake, Salam Park is a serene oasis in the centre of busy Riyadh. More than 780,000 visitors explore the green space every year, including four different ‘zones’ with thousands of palm trees, rolling hills and a natural habitat for flora and fauna. You’ll also find sports fields, a jogging track, picnic areas and plenty of resting areas. For more adventurous park-goers, the giant lake has a designated boating area – just be sure to steer clear of the giant fountain centrepiece which blasts jets of water 40 metres into the air. Salam Park has a covered footpath all the way around, but for a true picnic experience get off the beaten track and park yourself under a tree or on some empty grass. Forgot any essential supplies? The on-site snack centre will keep you topped up.
Open Mon-Sat 3pm-midnight. SAR5.25 per person. Al Dirah.
King Abdullah Park
Compared to the first spot on this list, King Abdullah Park in the south of the city has much more urban vibes. There’s plenty of green space and water, plus beautifully maintained flower displays, but most visitors are here to catch the dancing fountain show which runs at regular intervals throughout the evening. Small rock formations places throughout the grass are an ideal spot to sit while cracking out your sandwiches, and the kids can work off their energy by whizzing down the slides in the on-site play areas. Runners are a big fan of King Abdullah Park too, with its two-kilometre pathway lit up into the late hours of the evening.
Open daily 4.30pm-12.30am. SAR10 per person. Al Ameen Abdullah Al Ali Al Nuaim St, Al Malaz.
Wadi Hanifa
For something a bit different, hop in the car and head for Wadi Hanifa. The rugged rocks of this man-made oasis run for 120 kilometres through Riyadh (although the main spot is just to the east of As Suwaidi) and are a great spot for hiking, picnics and birdwatching among local families. One side of the wadi is lined with a thick wall of palm trees and there are acres of beautifully landscaped gardens for visitors to explore. Just off the main walking track, families will curved bench areas built from stone and areas to sit before breaking out the snacks. There are even designated barbecue areas at specific points of the trail. Aprons at the ready.
Open daily. Dirab Road, As Suwaidi.
Wadi Namar
In the south of Riyadh, the Wadi Namar dam is fast turning into a top picnic spot for family. weekenders looking for a peaceful place to feast on their finger food. Hundreds of palm trees line the water, which is as deep as 20 metres at points, adding to more than 9,500 trees in the area. But even though you’re in the heart of nature, there are plenty of facilities available including prayer rooms, washrooms and lighting systems. Recently, the Arriyadh Development Authority has built a corniche overlooking the the lake dam with areas for picnickers to enjoy the views and a large play park for kids.
Open daily. Dirab Road, As Suwaidi.
