In line with Saudi Arabia’s modern urban development goals and its commitment to improving quality of life, there has been a growing need for integrated public spaces that combine recreation, physical activity, and green environments. One of the first entities to help turn this vision into reality was Rawat Al Tasmem Contracting Company – rawataltasmem.sa – by delivering innovative design and execution solutions that foster inclusive urban environments.
Among its notable projects is Al Baik Park, developed on the central island beneath the Jeddah Islamic Port bridge – a living example of how an unused space can be transformed into a vibrant multi-functional destination for sports, leisure, and relaxation in a safe, inclusive environment.
Location & Area
Al Baik Park spans an area of more than 14,000 square meters, strategically situated in the southern part of Jeddah. Its central location features a well-integrated layout that includes sports areas, recreational facilities, and family-friendly open spaces catering to all age groups.
Project Components
The park is divided into functional zones designed with urban efficiency and user experience in mind:
- Sports Courts:
- 3 Football fields
- 2 Basketball courts
- 1 Volleyball court
These encourage physical activity and foster a sense of healthy competition in an open, safe environment.
- Children’s Play Area:
Swings, slides, and sand zones designed for children to enjoy joyful and safe playtime with their families. - Walking Tracks:
Two landscaped walking trails offer residents a peaceful setting for jogging or walking in a safe and scenic space. - Blind-Friendly Track:
A dedicated tactile path for the visually impaired, meeting sensory accessibility standards to ensure free movement throughout the park. - Inclusive Fitness Equipment:
Outdoor gym gear designed specifically for people with disabilities, reinforcing the park’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. - Open Plazas & Shaded Seating:
Landscaped areas with shaded benches and social gathering spots designed for relaxation and community engagement.
Social Objectives
Al Baik Park is part of a social responsibility initiative launched by Al Baik Food Systems Co. in partnership with the Abughazaleh Foundation. The park aims to:
- Promote physical activity among neighborhood residents.
- Offer an inviting urban space for families.
- Encourage private sector involvement in sustainable development.
- Enhance social connectivity through open urban areas.
The project received commendation from Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Governor of the Makkah Region, with a recommendation to replicate this initiative in Makkah and Taif. (Source: Akhbaar24)
Project Impact
- Health & Wellness:
Encourages outdoor exercise and healthier lifestyles, reducing the risk of chronic illnesses. - Safe Social Space:
Offers a secure environment for families and individuals to gather and build community bonds. - Private Sector Investment:
Serves as a successful model of public-private collaboration in urban development. - Scalable Urban Model:
Demonstrates a replicable approach to transforming neglected spaces into vibrant urban assets.
Community Feedback
Locals in Jeddah praised the project for transforming everyday life in the area:
“A place where you can feel safe playing sports at night—it’s become a destination.”
“Great idea. Even the elderly enjoy walking here. Girls jog safely. It’s a joyful place.”
Challenges & Solutions
Key Challenges:
- Maintaining equipment (playgrounds, fitness machines).
- Ensuring safety during late hours.
- Managing peak-time crowding, especially weekends.
Proposed Solutions:
- Implement regular maintenance and service contracts.
- Hire security and ensure ample lighting after dark.
- Consider time-slot access or online reservation systems during special events.
Future Impact & Expansion
- Inspiring Similar Projects:
This initiative encourages similar developments across Jeddah, including in northern and southern districts. - Boosting Real Estate Value:
Property values nearby have risen due to increased desirability and improved neighborhood image. - Potential Enhancements:
Future expansions may include cafés, prayer areas, clean restrooms, and dedicated parking spaces.
Conclusion
Revitalizing the central island of southern Jeddah with a multi-purpose park was a forward-thinking urban step that broke the daily routine and strengthened community bonds. It created an inclusive space for all — from children and people with disabilities to senior citizens and sports enthusiasts.
But what truly makes the project special is not that it’s “just a beautiful park,” but that it’s Al Baik Park — a space carrying the name of a beloved national brand, delivering a clear message: open green spaces must be essential elements of urban life, and transforming them into public zones is the real investment in the quality of human life.
