Saudi Arabia to Cool Riyadh Streets by 15°C
Saudi Arabia is launching a large-scale project to reduce temperatures on the streets and buildings of Riyadh by up to 15 degrees Celsius to address the urban heat island effect and improve the quality of life in the capital.
Ambitious City Cooling Program
Saudi Arabia is preparing to implement a major urban cooling project in Riyadh aimed at reducing the temperature of roads, walls, and other urban surfaces by 8–15 degrees Celsius. The initiative will respond to the urban heat island effect — a phenomenon where cities experience significantly higher temperatures than surrounding areas due to dense construction and heat-absorbing materials. The project is expected to begin next year. The Greek consulting company PLANET has been appointed as the lead consultant by the Royal Commission for Riyadh Development and will coordinate all efforts to create a comprehensive city cooling strategy.
Innovative Solutions for Temperature Reduction
Proposed solutions include the use of innovative materials for road surfaces, open water channels, evaporative ponds, and expanding green cover in targeted areas. The cooling strategy will focus on factors contributing to heat accumulation: road surface materials, building facades, open spaces, and pedestrian zone materials. The project includes not only tree planting but also a comprehensive approach to rethinking the structure and design of the city itself, setting it apart from existing initiatives like King Salman Park.
Pilot Zones and Practical Implementation
PLANET will identify five pilot areas to test cooling solutions before large-scale implementation. The study, which is expected to be completed within 12 months, will provide a comprehensive basis for understanding heat exchange issues in Riyadh and a practical roadmap for addressing them. The pilot zones will be used to assess the effectiveness of proposed measures before broader deployment. The project is still awaiting the completion of studies and final approvals; cost estimates have not yet been disclosed.
Improving Comfort in One of the Hottest Cities in the World
Riyadh, as one of the fastest-growing megacities in the world, faces serious challenges related to urban heat. Reducing temperatures on the streets and in buildings by 8–15 degrees will significantly enhance the comfort of residents and visitors, especially during the summer months. For visitors to Riyadh, including pilgrims and tourists, such improvements will make walking around the city more pleasant and safe, allowing them to better enjoy the attractions and cultural heritage of the capital.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will the temperature decrease on the streets of Riyadh?
The project aims to reduce the temperature of road and building surfaces by 8–15 degrees Celsius. Exact figures will be determined based on the results of testing in the pilot zones.
What materials will be used to cool urban surfaces?
Innovative materials for road surfaces, open water channels, evaporative ponds, and expanding green cover are planned for use. Building facades and pedestrian zones will also be retrofitted with heat-reflective materials.
When will the project be implemented?
The project is expected to begin next year after all necessary studies are completed and final approvals are obtained. Initially, solutions will be tested in five pilot areas of the city.
