When you think of dams, the image of concrete walls, no greenery, manmade waterfalls, and staff and control panels may come to mind. But a visit to Wadi Namar Dam Park, a valley located south of Riyadh, and your perception of what a dam could be will definitely change! Often featured amongst Riyadh’s most scenic gems, Wadi Namar was inaugurated on April 10, 2012 by Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and has since then been one of the city’s favorite getaways.
Escaping the bustling city lifestyle, families flock to Wadi Namar Dam Park daily for its breathtaking view and tranquil environment. The park offers a walk known for its gorgeous greenery and nearby hilly landscape. In addition, over 520 palm trees were planted in regular patterns as part of Arriyadh Development Authority’s efforts to help maintain and improve the scenery, while still offering visitors something to enjoy. The area also has a lake and a manmade waterfall, pouring over a rocky cliff from the local dam, complementing the scenery.
There are many activities to do at Wadi Namar Dam Park. The lake is about 2 kilometers long, stretching from one end of the park to the other, and a favorite spot for ducks to swim, which you could enjoy feeding during your next visit. Along the lake is the walkway where families stroll and gather by the lake, and it provides ample space for riding bikes. You could even sit next to the lake and read your favorite book or treat yourself to shisha.
If you’re done with walking and in the mood for a quick bite, there are also a number of food vendors and trucks offering a range of delicious treats, or you could even grill your very own barbecue next to the lake. The park also has activities and side attractions for kids, anything from kid-sized bicycles to bouncing castles. There are also designated spots for prayer, with prayer mats provided, and an ablution facility.
It is recommended to visit Wadi Namar in the evenings when the weather is cooler and the beautiful evening sky and street lights make your journey to the park memorable in every way.
