Located in the Southeast part of Riyadh, Sands Sports Park is a great outdoor destination for sports, fitness and nature enthusiasts. The park features dedicated trails for cycling, running, hiking, and more, all set against the stunning backdrop of the desert landscape of Saudi Arabia. And with the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games coming up, now is the perfect time to explore, play, and make memories in Riyadh’s newest outdoor hotspot.
About Sands Sports Park Riyadh
Spanning over 45 kilometers of sand dunes, Sands Sports Park Riyadh is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond sports, it features a resort, art installations, rest areas and investment spaces, making it both a recreational and cultural hotspot. Designed to honor local heritage, the park has iconic touches like the sculptural Najdi rose celebrating Saudi artistry. Thoughtfully developed with sustainability in mind, over 350,000 square meters of sand dunes have been rehabilitated, creating a stunning space for explorers.
Main Events of Sands Sports Park Riyadh
1. 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games
The 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games will take place from November 7 to 21, 2025 at Sands Sports Park in Riyadh. It will feature 21 sports and 2 para-sports, with athletes from 57 member countries of the Islamic Solidarity Sports Association. The Duathlon competition will feature sprint-format races for both men and women. This event will bring together athletes from across the Muslim world.
2. Sand Dunes Festival
The Sand Dunes Festival marks a significant step in promoting outdoor fitness and community engagement in Riyadh, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals to encourage healthy lifestyles and cultural activities. This free event includes night cycling and running races, with routes for all skill levels. The festival also offers family-friendly activities, food stalls, and entertainment, making it a perfect weekend outing for all ages. This year the event took place on 14 to 15 March 2025.
Suggested Read: Red Sand Dunes Saudi Arabia: Top Activities, Best Time to Visit & Travel Tips
Outdoor Activities at Sands Sports Park Riyadh
1. Cycling & Mountain Biking
The park offers cycling paths for both professionals and beginners, including cross-country biking trails and BMX tracks that reflect the natural desert landscape.
2. Running & Walking
Specialized trails are available for running and walking, catering to various fitness levels and providing scenic routes through the expansive desert terrain of the park.
3. Hiking & Horseback Riding
Pedestrian and equestrian trails wind through the park, offering opportunities for hiking and horseback riding amidst the natural beauty of sand dunes.
4. Art Installations
The park features cultural elements, such as sculptures of the Najdi rose at the convergence of several trails.
Suggested Read: Things To Do in Riyadh: From Ancient History To Star Gazing
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Sands Sports Park Riyadh
- Arrive before 10 AM to enjoy the cooler morning weather.
- Wear comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, a hat, and sunglasses. A light jacket is recommended for cooler evenings.
- For a taste of luxury, book a VIP pass for exclusive access to air-conditioned lounges with premium food and beverage options.
- Use the free park-and-ride shuttle service from designated city points to avoid traffic congestion near the venue.
- The official park app has a live map showing wait times for attractions, helping you plan your day efficiently.
- Stay hydrated! Refill stations are located throughout the park, so bring a reusable water bottle.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Riyadh: Top Attractions People Can Visit For An Astonishing Vacation
Travel Tips to Know Before Visiting Sands Sports Park Riyadh
- International visitors can apply for an e-Visa online through the official tourism portal.
- Plan to arrive early to settle in and attend the full three-day launch event without feeling rushed.
- Look for hotels in Al Malqa or Al Aqiq districts of Riyadh for convenient access to the park.
- Arabic is the official language. However, English is widely spoken by staff at the venue and in most hotels and restaurants.
- Use ride-sharing apps like Careem to travel within Riyadh. The most efficient option is the dedicated event shuttle bus service from major hubs in Riyadh.
- A wide variety of international and local food options are available inside the park, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.
Visiting the Sands Sports Park Riyadh is more than just a day out; it’s a chance to witness the future of sports and entertainment in the Middle East. This event promises a unique blend of high-octane action and rich cultural experiences for globetrotters. Don’t just read about it, be part of the excitement. To make your journey seamless, explore exclusive Saudi Arabia tour packages with DMCs like Regency Holidays and have a vacation of a lifetime.
FAQ’s – Sands Sports Park Riyadh
Sands Sports Park is a premier outdoor destination in Riyadh, featuring cycling and mountain biking trails, running and walking paths, horseback riding tracks, art installations, and a resort, amid the sand dunes.
No, entry to Sands Sports Park is free. However, some special events like Sand Dunes Festival may require free online registration.
Visitors can enjoy cycling, mountain biking, running, walking, hiking, horseback riding, and more.
Yes, major events include the Sand Dunes Festival in March 2025 and Duathlon event during the 2025 Islamic Solidarity Games. The park also hosts seasonal and community sports activities.
The park is open daily from 4 am to 10 am and 4 pm to 1 am, allowing visitors to enjoy activities during both early morning and late evening hours.
Absolutely! The park offers activities suitable for all ages, including children’s cycling and running routes, pedestrian paths, and family-friendly zones with food and entertainment during events.
The park spans over 45 kilometers of multi-use trails in sand dunes, making it one of the largest outdoor recreational spaces in Riyadh and Saudi Arabia.
Yes, over 350,000 square meters of sand dunes were rehabilitated during the park’s development. Trails and facilities are integrated into the natural terrain to preserve the ecosystem while offering a world-class outdoor experience.
