"Cities Dialogue Forum" Explores Riyadh’s Urban Transformation with Leaders of Major Projects
A special panel session at the Arab-European Cities Dialogue Forum in Riyadh shed light on the city’s evolving urban landscape by discussing major projects that represent strategic shifts in tourism, culture, and sustainability—with direct participation from the leaders of these transformative initiatives.
The session focused on the visions and ambitions behind Riyadh’s flagship projects and how long-term plans are being translated into tangible realities. It also positioned Riyadh as a model for sustainable urban growth.
Participants included:
Jayne McGivern, CEO of the Sports Boulevard Foundation
George Tanasijevich, CEO of King Salman Park Foundation
Jerry Inzerillo, CEO of Diriyah Company
Each shared insights on how their respective projects are shaping Riyadh’s future and contributing to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
McGivern described the Sports Boulevard as a landmark project promoting healthy living and quality of life. Spanning east to west Riyadh, the project dedicates 60% of its area to green spaces, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and create a human-centered environment—enhancing livability and community engagement.
Tanasijevich highlighted King Salman Park as the "green heart" of the capital, aligned with Vision 2030’s sustainability goals. He emphasized the project's scale, with 70% of its area covered in greenery—featuring over 1.1 million trees and 800 plant species, including 600 non-native varieties. The park is being developed using advanced environmental and irrigation systems, ensuring long-term ecological viability.
He noted that the park will offer experiences previously only available abroad and aims to become one of the world’s largest urban parks. A portion of the area is allocated for commercial use to generate sustainable operational income through private-sector partnerships.
Tanasijevich also stressed the importance of integrating the park with surrounding neighborhoods via a dedicated "impact zone," ensuring that the benefits of development extend to adjacent communities.
He concluded by calling for stronger international collaboration among cities, underlining that Vision 2030 is not a destination, but a launchpad for global partnerships and bold urban opportunities.
Inzerillo presented the Diriyah project as a cultural and diplomatic hub for Saudi heritage, spanning 14 million square meters and valued at $64 billion. He affirmed that the project is on track, with several heritage and cultural assets set to open by February 22, 2027.
Diriyah’s new hotel already boasts a 91% occupancy rate, and its latest season attracted over one million visitors. The goal is to welcome 20 million visitors in the coming years by offering a deeply rooted cultural experience.
The session concluded by affirming that Riyadh’s major projects are not only reshaping its urban form but also positioning it as a global destination. These efforts support Saudi Vision 2030’s goal of comprehensive and sustainable urban development—placing Riyadh among the world’s leading cities that balance authenticity, modernity, quality of life, and environmental sustainability.
