Riyadh, February 28, 2024, The Board of Directors of the King Salman Park Foundation has officially announced the completion of the Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Tunnel, marking a significant milestone in the King Salman Park project. This tunnel, part of the broader initiative announced by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud in March 2019, aims to enhance traffic flow, alleviate congestion, and connect various sections of the King Salman Park.
The Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Tunnel, a key component of the comprehensive project initiated in Q3 2021, spans an impressive 2,430 meters from north to south beneath the expansive King Salman Park. Noteworthy for its size, it stands as one of the longest tunnels in the Middle East. The tunnel's construction involved linking a new 1,590-meter stretch to an existing 840-meter tunnel along Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Road, creating a unified underpass that promises to streamline traffic movement.
As of February 29, 2024, vehicles will have access to the Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Road Tunnel. The tunnel's design adheres to Salmani architecture, mirroring the natural rock formations and geological structure of Riyadh. Sustainable materials were used in its construction, and its interior is adorned with colors harmonizing with the local environment.
Featuring three lanes in each direction, along with a designated emergency lane, the tunnel incorporates advanced traffic management systems, state-of-the-art safety measures, and emergency services and evacuation routes. Its completion is expected to significantly enhance the connectivity of the King Salman Park project.
King Salman Park, sprawling over 16 square kilometers, occupies a strategic location linked to major roads, the Riyadh Metro, and the Riyadh Bus station, ensuring easy accessibility. The park, touted as offering the largest green space in Riyadh, encompasses a diverse range of cultural, arts, entertainment, sports, recreational, commercial, and residential facilities. Highlight attractions include the Royal Arts Complex, the Visitor Pavilion, and various museums, collectively redefining the concept of urban parks in the region.
Beyond its practical benefits, King Salman Park is positioned to elevate Riyadh's global profile, contributing to the city's status as one of the world's most livable. This multifaceted destination is poised to enhance the quality of life for citizens, residents, and tourists alike, providing a platform for new experiences and shaping the future of urban parks in the region.