The Saudi capital is undergoing a dramatic environmental transformation through the Green Riyadh initiative, a flagship project that aims to plant 7.5 million trees across the city. As one of the largest urban afforestation programs ever attempted, the initiative seeks to increase Riyadh’s green cover from around 1.5% to nearly 9%, creating thousands of hectares of new parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets. The project is part of the country’s broader sustainability agenda and is designed to combat urban heat, improve air quality, and enhance the well-being of residents in a city where summer temperatures frequently exceed 45°C. Authorities are also developing extensive green corridors that connect neighborhoods and public spaces, making nature more accessible throughout the city.
The environmental benefits are expected to be substantial. Once established, the millions of trees will help absorb carbon dioxide, reduce dust and air pollution, and lower ambient temperatures through shade and evapotranspiration. To address the challenges of greening a desert city, the project relies heavily on treated wastewater for irrigation and incorporates drought-tolerant plant species suited to the region’s climate. Experts believe the initiative could serve as a global model for sustainable urban development in arid regions, demonstrating how strategic investments in green infrastructure can improve climate resilience, biodiversity, and quality of life even in some of the world’s harshest urban environments. More