King Salman Park Transforms Riyadh’s Former Airport

Riyadh is turning its former airport into King Salman Park, a development spanning more than 17.2 square kilometres that aims to become the city's new green heart. ⠀ In this Property News International feature, we look at the plans behind the park. Around 11 square kilometres will be green space, with more than a million trees planned across the development. ⠀ Omrania collaborated with Henning Larsen on the masterplan, combining public landscapes with surrounding mixed-use districts. Inspired by Saudi Arabia's wadis, the landscape uses branching valleys and shaded routes to make walking and cycling more comfortable, while treated wastewater is set to irrigate the park's greenery. ⠀ A major cultural anchor is the Royal Arts Complex, designed by Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill. Covering more than 500,000 square metres across seven cultural assets, it will bring together the Museum of World Cultures, a national theatre and arts education facilities, blending contemporary architecture with Saudi Arabia's Salmani architectural traditions. ⠀ The project also includes homes, offices and hotels. In March 2026, the King Salman Park Foundation awarded an investment package worth over SAR 11 billion, with plans for 3,700 homes. A September progress update said preparations were underway for a phased soft opening. ⠀ Watch the full video for a closer look at Riyadh's plan to make green space and culture central to everyday life.