Beyond recreation: A theoretical framework for examining the impact of the sports boulevard project on urban development in Riyadh

The Sports Boulevard in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is a massive project that will impact aspects of urban development like livability, quality of life, availability of green spaces, and equal access to opportunities, particularly the Northern edge where it is implemented. This review article evaluates the existing evidence on the theory of the impact of megaprojects on urban development to determine an appropriate framework for assessing the effects of the Sports Boulevard project on Riyadh’s urban development. The methodology applied is an integrative literature review that combines insights from government documents, policy briefs, and scholarly research articles to address the above-mentioned research objectives. Results from the review indicated that the Sports Boulevard project would theoretically be conceptualized through social and economic impacts, such as inducing increased quality of life by creating pedestrian spaces that encourage walkability, cycling, and exercising through bikes. The results also indicated that the green spaces afforded by the project would provide opportunities for socialization and social events that promote social cohesion, better well-being, and a sense of com-munity. Economically, the project will enable access to opportunities for those residing in the neighborhood.