King Abdullah Park is a large public park in the Al Malaz district of Riyadh. It opened in 2013 and covers about 318,000 square metres. Lawns, palm trees, a lake and wide walking paths fill the grounds, and there are playgrounds, picnic areas and sports courts for families. In the evening a fountain with music and lights draws the crowds. The park opens in the afternoon and closes at midnight, and an entrance fee applies.
Size and layout
King Abdullah Park covers about 318,000 square metres in Al Malaz and is counted among the largest parks in Riyadh. The ground was once a horse racecourse. The park opened in 2013 as a public space for families.
The layout follows the pattern of a classic Islamic garden, with a lake and streams, palm, olive and acacia trees, and flower beds. Birds and fish, including tilapia, can be seen around the water.
A paved walkway about 12 metres wide winds through the park and around stretches of hillside. It is used for walking and jogging, and cycling and skating are also popular on it. The park also has an amphitheatre.
The evening fountain show
The musical fountain stands on the water in the middle of the park. After sunset it plays with coloured lights and lasers set to music, and it is the main reason many people come in the evening.
The show runs only at set times, and start times differ between sources, so confirm the time on the day. The fountain has also been out of service on some visits, which leaves the park much quieter after dark.
Facilities for families
Children have playgrounds and a dedicated play area, with slides and swings. The grounds also have basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, picnic tables and open lawns for sitting. A small touring vehicle, described as a train or a little red bus, circles the park.
The restrooms are kept clean and well supplied. Food is limited to a few snack kiosks, a cafe and a restaurant, and a mosque is on site.
Cats gather around the park, and some people bring cat food for them. Open barbecues are not allowed, so bring food that is already prepared.
Tickets, parking and access
Entry costs 11.50 SAR for adults and 5.75 SAR for children aged 4 to 11. Children under 3 go in free. The fee helps keep the park less crowded than other parks in the city.
The park is on Al Ameen Abdullah Al Ali Al Naeem Street in Al Malaz, near Prince Faisal bin Fahd Stadium and not far from Riyadh Zoo. Free and paid car parks are available, along with free and paid street parking. The entrance and the car park are wheelchair accessible.
Events and busy periods
The park hosts seasonal festivals and public events. On Saudi National Day it holds a celebration with fireworks before midnight, and it fills with pedestrians during Eid. Expect crowds on those dates, and on ordinary weekends and evenings.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee at King Abdullah Park?
Yes. Adults pay 11.50 SAR and children aged 4 to 11 pay 5.75 SAR. Children under 3 enter free.
When does the fountain show start?
It plays in the evening, after sunset, at set times. Start times differ between sources, so check on the day. The fountain has also been out of service on some days.
Can you eat inside King Abdullah Park?
A few snack kiosks, a cafe and a restaurant are on site, but the choice is limited. Many people bring a picnic. Open barbecues are not allowed.
Is there parking?
Yes. There are free and paid car parks and free and paid street parking nearby.
Is King Abdullah Park good for children?
Yes. It has playgrounds, a children's play area, picnic spaces and clean restrooms. Football for children is not allowed inside.
