Urban Green Areas in Jeddah: Enhancing Environmental Sustainability and Weather Conditions

This study investigates the extent and evolution of urban green areas in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, emphasizing their role in environmental sustainability and weather conditions. Urban green spaces (UGS) in Jeddah have experienced significant changes due to rapid urbanization, which has diminished their availability and accessibility. Historically, the city’s growth led to the conversion of natural landscapes into built environments, exacerbating the decline in UGS. Recent urban planning policies, including the "Green Saudi Initiative," aim to address these challenges by integrating green infrastructure into urban development. Despite these efforts, the uneven distribution of UGS, influenced by socio-economic factors, remains a critical issue, limiting equitable access and utility. Furthermore, Jeddah’s hot desert climate and urban heat island (UHI) effect compound environmental challenges, affecting urban temperatures, energy consumption, and precipitation patterns. This research aims to review existing literature to understand the impact of UGS on environmental sustainability and explore the barriers and opportunities associated with their development. By examining these aspects, the study seeks to inform future urban planning and policy-making, fostering the creation of resilient and sustainable urban spaces in Jeddah.