Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) to transform one of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic oases, Wadi Hanifah, into a nature-based escape, comprising of four interactive zones.
The transformation plan was shared by DGDA during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2022 trade show, which is being held in Dubai this week. ATM 2022 is being held from the 9 through the 12 of May and virtually for another week after that.
According to DGDA, the transformation of Wadi Hanifah includes the restoration of two square kilometres of unique palm groves containing thousands of trees from species native to the wadi, as well as creating new parks with walking trails, biking tracks, outdoor games areas and picnic spots where people can gather and enjoy time out.
Moreover, it noted that wellness spaces, activities and eco-tourism attractions will be at the heart of the wadi’s enhancements, which aim to improve the quality of life for local residents and visitors.
Located along the west of historic Diriyah, Wadi Hanifah is ideally located near the birthplace of the First Saudi State and the Turaif historic dining, which is on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Heritage List.
Wadi Hanifa to consist of four zones
Heritage and Culture Zone: Adjacent to At-Turaif, this zone focuses on creating a landscape that complements and adds to the visitor experience of both At-Turaif and Bujairi Terrace. The existing park will be extended and refurbished to serve the community, with a theme and character in keeping with the area’s heritage to create a stronger identity. It will also feature a Heritage Art Oasis, a 50-key boutique hotel and Sports Boulevard that will give visitors seamless connectivity to both Wadi Hanifah and Diriyah Gate.
Wadi Living Zone: This zone lies on the western edge of Diriyah Gate and includes several experiences amidst beautiful wadi surroundings with a variety of recreational spaces catering to families and visitors of all ages. These spaces will include picnic areas, an outdoor theatre, a star gazing garden, a storytelling and event space and a children’s play area.
Eco-Tourism Zone: To the south of Diriyah Gate, this zone will feature the Barari Diriyah Wildlife Conservation Centre and Palm Heritage Centre for Research and Development.
Sports and Activity Zone: The southwestern area has been identified as a zone for sports and adventure activities and will have an urban, contemporary feel, while still embracing the wadi’s natural character. The zone can be accessed from the Western Ring Road and will include courts, a skate park and a parkour arena. The zone will also provide facilities for mountain biking, a multi-use games arena, a green caravan route and a central sports pavilion.
Commenting on the developments, Jerry Inzerillo, group CEO of DGDA, said: “Wadi Hanifah is an integral part of the master plan for Diriyah. The wadi was what drew people to the area centuries ago and from which sprung the city of Diriyah we are restoring today. The wadi’s status in history as a place of relaxation and recovery has led us to create a destination with ample wellness and recreational offerings that put people first. It will be a haven of nature for our residents and guests which will bring them closer to Diriyah’s immense historical legacy.”
The restoration of Wadi Hanifah forms a key part of DGDA’s $50.6bn master plan that will transform Diriyah into one of the world’s most exciting cultural tourist destinations. Hospitality, commercial, retail and nature offerings will both leverage and elevate the exceptionally distinctive character and cultural importance of the area and support DGDA’s overall mission to share, protect and celebrate Saudi Arabia’s national heritage.
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