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Walkability in Riyadh: A Comprehensive Assessment and Implications for Sustainable Community—Al-Falah Case Study

Author

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  • Majd Homoud

    (Architecture Department, College of Architecture and Design, Prince Sultan University, Riyadh 11586, Saudi Arabia
    Department of Architecture, School of Architecture and Built Environment, German Jordanian University, Amman 11180, Jordan)

  • Ola M. Jarrar

    (Architecture Department, College of Architecture and Design, Prince Sultan University, Riyadh 11586, Saudi Arabia)

Abstract

This paper focuses on studying the concept of walkability in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, after the implementation of the Humanizing Neighborhoods Initiative. Al-Falah neighborhood was selected as a case study because it was one of the first neighborhoods to implement walkability strategies. By adopting a qualitative critical approach, this research collected data through a literature review and on-site observation to assess walkability in the neighborhood. Analysis of the observations highlighted the challenges and opportunities of walkability in Riyadh and the wider Gulf cities. Recommendations for promoting walkable communities in Riyadh include enhancing pedestrian infrastructure, incorporating mixed-use developments, integrating green infrastructure, implementing smart urban planning principles, and integrating public transportation systems. This paper emphasizes the importance of community engagement, preserving local identity, and involving various stakeholders to transform Riyadh into a pedestrian-friendly city that prioritizes public health and sustainability.

Suggested Citation

  • Majd Homoud & Ola M. Jarrar, 2024. "Walkability in Riyadh: A Comprehensive Assessment and Implications for Sustainable Community—Al-Falah Case Study," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(18), pages 1-27, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:18:p:8073-:d:1478903
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Bander Fahad Alkrides & Tracy Washington & Mark Limb & Debra Cushing, 2025. "Assessing Walkability in Riyadh’s Commercial Streets: Public Perceptions and Prioritization," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-29, June.
    2. Majdi Alkhresheh, 2025. "A Dialectical Synthesis of Fused Grid Theory and Fractal Islamic Urbanism: Addressing the Deficiencies of Street Grid and Hierarchy Systems in Riyadh City," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(19), pages 1-17, September.

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