Urban oasis park

Project Overview

The Urban Oasis Park is situated in an area charactarized by its rich cultural history and natural resources. This innovative urban development seeks to transform a 50,000 sqm roundabout in Sihat into a vibrant social and cultural park, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The project emphasizes sustainability, community engagement, and enhancing the quality of life for residents while honoring the region’s Khaleeji heritage.

Project Location

Situated near a bustling district and a scenic beach promenade, the Urban Oasis Park occupies a strategic position in Dammam, connecting key residential districts to the beach. The site, with its high pedestrian movement, offers an ideal opportunity to blend urban planning with natural elements, creating a destination that fosters social interaction and cultural exchange.

Client

Sharqia Municipality

Services

Urban Design

Date

14 August 2021

Location

Eastern Province

Design Concept

The design narrative of the Urban Oasis Park is deeply rooted in the symbolism of a desert oasis—a source of life and gathering for the Bedouin communities that once inhabited the region. 

Program and purpose

The central feature of the park is a water-centric oasis, physically connecting the roundabout to the surrounding neighborhoods through pedestrian pathways. Divided into six thematic zones, the park offers diverse experiences ranging from active play areas and sports fields to serene reading gardens and community gathering spaces.

Guiding Principles

  • Innovative: Employing contemporary planning techniques, the park addresses modern challenges such as urban desocialization and lack of greenery. It aims to become a model of sustainable growth and cultural enrichment.
  • Authentic: The park honors the unique cultural and geological features of the Eastern Province, creating an authentic space for community engagement.
  • Healthy: With a focus on promoting physical and mental well-being, the park integrates natural elements, open spaces, and recreational facilities to foster a healthy lifestyle.
  • Connected: The park acts as a central node, linking nearby residential areas, the beach promenade, and various community attractions through a network of pedestrian-friendly pathways.
  • Inclusive: Designed for all age groups, the park offers a range of opportunities for social, recreational, and cultural activities, ensuring it caters to the diverse needs of the community.

Key features

  • The Oasis and Central Water Feature: At the heart of the park lies the central oasis, a water feature surrounded by shaded walkways, serving as a cooling element and gathering space for the community.
  • The Loop: Encircling the park, the Loop is a continuous walking and cycling path that connects all six zones, enhancing mobility and promoting physical activity.
  • The Cloud: A distinctive shading structure inspired by traditional Saudi patterns, the Cloud offers respite from the sun while reinforcing the cultural identity of the park.
  • Play and Sports Zones: The park features multiple active zones, including a children’s playground, a skating ground, sports fields, and a sand volleyball court.
  • Reading and Community Gardens: For those seeking a quieter experience, the park provides spaces for reading, relaxation, and community farming, encouraging interaction and leisure.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The Urban Oasis Park aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to enhance the quality of life through improved public spaces and cultural opportunities. By creating a space for physical activity, social interaction, and cultural engagement, the park fulfills the program’s goals of promoting a vibrant society and a thriving economy.

Project Result

The Urban Oasis Park is more than just a park—it is a testament to the power of thoughtful urban design in creating spaces that foster community, culture, and well-being. With its innovative approach to sustainability, inclusivity, and connectivity, the park is poised to become a landmark destination in the Eastern Province, offering a unique blend of recreation, culture, and nature.