Riyadh is a destination that is rapidly becoming a paradise for athletes.
Thanks to Vision 2030 and investments in world-class sports infrastructure, the Saudi capital today offers unique opportunities to practice sports in extraordinary settings: from golfing in the desert to horseback riding in exclusive clubs, along with bike paths among the dunes and state-of-the-art gyms. This guide is designed for those who do not want to give up their sports passion during their travels and want to discover the more active and dynamic side of Riyadh.
The Sports Boulevard: An Urban Revolution
The project Sports Boulevard is the flagship of Riyadh's sports offerings. Launched as part of Vision 2030, this ambitious project aims to transform the capital into a more vibrant and dynamic city, dedicated to wellness and physical activity .
Dimensions and Structure
With a length of over 135 km, the Sports Boulevard will connect the city from east to west, with 220 km of bike paths and over 134 km of pedestrian pathways, distributed across 8 different areas . It spans 4.4 million square meters of green spaces and includes over 50 sports facilities . The completion of the entire project is expected by 2029, but some areas have already been opened to the public .
Areas Already Opened
Promenade (Arts Boulevard) : It extends for 5.5 km from Diriyah to the east. It offers dedicated paths for cycling, walking, and running, enhanced by artistic installations and a 900-meter bike bridge. It is an area that combines sports and culture .
Al-Rimal Sports Park: Located southeast of King Khalid International Airport, this park spans over 17 million square meters among the sand dunes. It offers horse trails, mountain bike and BMX paths, as well as pedestrian and hiking trails .
Wadi Hanifah (part): The Wadi Hanifah area extends for 29.5 km and includes walking trails, equestrian paths, and bike lanes that wind through green meadows, in the heart of nature .
Golf: A Course in the Desert
For golf lovers, Riyadh offers unique experiences worldwide, with courses that blend into the desert landscape.
Dirab Golf & Country Club
Located about 44 km southwest of Riyadh, the Dirab Golf & Country Club is a gem in the desert . It offers an 18-hole golf course, recently renovated, with updated fairways and greens . The course, a championship par 72, winds through hills and valleys, with breathtaking views of the desert rock formations . Recent reviews indicate that the course is undergoing significant improvements, so it is advisable to check the conditions before booking .
Riyadh Golf Club
Located just 20 minutes from downtown Riyadh, the Riyadh Green Course is a championship Par-72 course that offers a challenging and enjoyable round for players of all levels .
Equestrian: The Saudi Tradition
Equestrianism is a fundamental part of Saudi culture, and in Riyadh there are several opportunities to practice it.
Equestrian Club of Riyadh
Located about 3 km from the Sheraton Riyadh Hotel & Towers, it offers equestrian activities for families and friends .
Al-Rimal Sports Park
As part of the Sports Boulevard, Al-Rimal Sports Park includes dedicated horse tracks that wind through the sand dunes in a breathtaking natural setting . It is a unique opportunity to ride in the desert just steps from the city.
Nofa Riyadh Resort
For a more exclusive equestrian experience, Nofa Riyadh Resort, about 45 minutes from the city, offers horseback safaris in its wildlife reserve, where you can spot giraffes and ostriches.
Running and Walking: Parks and Urban Trails
Riyadh offers numerous green spaces and paths dedicated to those who love to run or walk.
King Abdullah Park
Located in the Al Malaz district, this very popular park offers wide paved walkways, green areas, landscaped gardens, and a large fountain. It is ideal for walks, easy runs, or recovery sessions, especially in the evening .
Salam Park
One of the most scenic and historic parks in Riyadh, Salam Park offers a walking loop around a large lake, with paved and flat paths, perfect for relaxing walks or light jogging .
Wadi Hanifah Park
This park stretches along the historic Wadi Hanifah valley, with long paved paths and nature trails. It is ideal for those seeking longer and uninterrupted routes in a peaceful and nature-immersed environment .
Diplomatic Quarter Running Trail
A safe and well-maintained path through landscaped gardens and quiet streets, perfect for occasional runners and longer training sessions .
Luxury Gyms and Fitness Centers
Riyadh offers a wide range of gyms, from exclusive clubs to low-cost chains.
Exclusive Gyms
Core (Diplomatic Quarter): A holistic wellness experience, with luxury training, rehabilitation for chronic injuries, and spaces for private workouts .
Kinetico: Since 2009, it blends classic workouts like yoga and Pilates with a touch of luxury. High-end products and elegant spaces .
Stance: A boutique fitness that combines Pilates and barre classes with spa services, offering massages and facial treatments for post-workout recovery .
Gyms for Women
Kayanee: A women’s fitness center supported by Princess Reema bint Bandar. Offers yoga and dance classes in a welcoming environment, along with a café and a shop .
Relive Studio: The first MegaPro Lagree certified studio in Saudi Arabia. Offers low-impact, high-intensity workouts like Pilates, Barre, and Yoga in a chic and welcoming space .
Pure Gym Woman: With locations in various districts (Al Aziziyah, Al Hamra, As Sahafah, Al Munsiyah), it offers a wide range of equipment and classes, with the flexibility of a monthly subscription .
Low-Cost Gyms
PureGym: The low-cost chain has opened six locations in Riyadh, aiming to expand further. The gyms are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and offer a wide range of equipment and group classes .
9Round: Perfect for a quick workout, this gym offers a high-intensity kickboxing workout in just 30 minutes .
International Sports Events
Riyadh is becoming a hub for global sports events, an additional attraction for athletes.
Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games (RAIMAG) 2026: In December 2026, Riyadh will host these games with 18 sports and 122 events, including 3x3 basketball, boxing, judo, karate, padel, squash, taekwondo, and wrestling .
Italian Super Cup: A significant event for soccer fans, bringing Italian teams to Riyadh .
Practical Tips for Sports in Riyadh
Best Time: The months from October to April offer the mildest temperatures for outdoor activities. The best times of the day are early morning (5:00-7:00) and evening after sunset .
Clothing: For all outdoor activities, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended .
Hydration: Always carry plenty of water, especially during running or biking excursions .
Reservations: For golf and some exclusive gyms, it is advisable to book in advance.
FAQ-RIYAD FOR ATHLETES
What are the most beautiful running routes in Riyadh?
Among the best are the Wadi Hanifah Park for long and nature-immersed paths, Salam Park for its loop around the lake, and the Diplomatic Quarter for safe and well-maintained paths .
How much does a round of golf cost at Dirab Golf Club?
The prices are not specified, but it is advisable to book in advance and check the course conditions . The club also offers a driving range and practice area .
Are there gyms open 24 hours in Riyadh?
Yes, the chain PureGym offers gyms open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in various neighborhoods of the city, including Al Munsiyah, Al Aziziyah, Al Hamra, and As Sahafah .
Where can I go horseback riding in Riyadh?
You can ride at the Equestrian Club of Riyadh or on the dedicated trails of the Al-Rimal Sports Park (part of the Sports Boulevard) .
What are the most exclusive gyms in Riyadh?
Core in the Diplomatic Quarter is an exclusive club reserved for members, while Kinetico and Stance offer luxury experiences .
Can you play padel in Riyadh?
Yes, padel is a growing sport. It is one of the sports included in RAIMAG 2026 . The Sports Boulevard includes dedicated facilities and many private clubs offer padel courts.
Riyadh for sports enthusiasts
Riyadh is establishing itself as a top-tier sports destination in the Middle East, a place where tradition and modernity meet to offer unique experiences. Whether you are golfers eager to play on a course with a view of the desert, riders wanting to explore the dunes on horseback, runners looking for well-maintained green paths, or gym-goers who do not want to give up their training, the Saudi capital has something to offer everyone. With cutting-edge infrastructure like the Sports Boulevard and a growing calendar of international events, Riyadh is the right place for those who want to combine their passion for sports with exploring one of the most fascinating and transforming cities in the world. To plan your sports trip to Riyadh, check out our complete guide for vacations in Riyadh.
Review date: June 20, 2026