Users’ Satisfaction with the Urban Design of Nature-Based Parks: A Case Study from Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Rapid urbanization in Saudi Arabia has reshaped land use and increased the demand for public spaces to enhance residents’ well-being, support quality of life, and strengthen cities’ resilience to global warming and climate change. In this study, an evaluation of user satisfaction with the design of nature-based parks in Saudi Arabia was conducted, using Wadi Hanifa Park in Riyadh city as a case study. To this end, direct observation alongside a questionnaire survey of park users was employed. The findings indicate that users are generally satisfied with the design of the park, with a weighted mean overall satisfaction score of 3.38 out of 5 observed. High satisfaction ratings were reported for various features, with visual quality receiving the highest rating. In contrast, lower satisfaction levels were recorded for some aspects, with the lowest rating given to lighting levels at night. The most frequently cited issue needing attention was the limited presence of greenery. This suggests that users tend to report a higher satisfaction in parks that incorporate diverse plant life and create a harmonious blend of natural and built environments. Accordingly, this study recommends the planting of native species, which require less water, enhance visual appeal, and strengthen place identity. Enhancing these aspects could further increase the effectiveness of nature-based parks in enhancing the quality of life in Saudi cities. This study recommends developing a national evaluation framework for public parks in Saudi Arabia to guide designers and policymakers in implementing the best design practices.

1. Introduction

The pressures of urbanization present city dwellers with various challenges that directly impact their physical, mental, and social well-being. Public open spaces play a crucial role in mitigating these impacts and enhancing their quality of life [1]. Elements such as streets, parks, gardens, and squares define a city’s image and identity [2]. This includes green public spaces, which are essential for improving quality of life, enhancing physical and social environments, regulating urban temperatures, reducing pollution, increasing climate adaptability, and fostering economic opportunities [3,4,5,6]. These benefits depend on the quality and arrangement of urban vegetation, which can influence the microclimate through shading and evapotranspiration [7]. To maximize these advantages, public green spaces should be designed to meet the minimum area per resident as outlined in urban standards. Ideally, they should form a connected system, though they can also utilize leftover land [8]. Nature-based parks, especially, focus on preserving natural ecosystems while meeting the recreational and aesthetic needs of urban populations. Integrating these spaces into urban areas boosts biodiversity, mitigates urban heat island effects, and promotes ecological sustainability.

In 2016, Saudi Arabia introduced Vision 2030, which includes the Quality of Life Program launched in 2018 to promote healthy lifestyles and create livable urban environments across the Kingdom. In the urban design sector, the program targeted improvements to public spaces, including parks, aiming to increase the average public space per capita from 3.48 m² in 2015 to 4.65 m² by 2023 [9]. Complementing this is the Saudi Green Initiative, launched in 2021, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions and planting millions of trees [10]. In Saudi Arabia, public parks serve as more than recreational spaces; they are essential cultural venues that reflect the country’s social structure and traditions. Parks are often designed with a focus on family gatherings, gender segregation, and privacy, aligning with societal norms and values that significantly shape public life [11]. Most social outdoor gatherings in Saudi Arabia occur in the late evening due to the prevailing hot climatic conditions [12]. In the post-COVID-19 era, parks have become increasingly vital as safe, open-air spaces where people can meet and connect [13].

This study contributes to these initiatives by addressing the research gap observed in the existing literature. It analyses a real-time case study, to investigate users’ satisfaction level with the urban design characteristics of nature-based parks in Saudi Arabia. The study considered Wadi Hanifa Park in Riyadh as a case study in this regard. Wadi Hanifa is the city’s most significant natural landmark, featuring multiple public areas. It serves as a natural water channel for an area exceeding 4000 square kilometers and plays an essential role in maintaining biodiversity, supporting thousands of trees, shrubs, and ground cover species. This makes it a unique geographical feature in this arid region that requires further investigation and development [14,15]. This study highlights the key factors that influence user satisfaction in Wadi Hanifa park through examining the roles of accessibility, safety, environmental quality, and cultural responsiveness in enhancing the usability and appeal of this case study in particular and other similar nature-based parks in general. While previous studies have explored general principles of satisfaction in urban parks, this research extends these insights to nature-based parks in arid and culturally distinctive environments, thereby addressing a significant gap in the literature.

2. Literature Review

Public parks are essential components of urban design strategies that aim to promote sustainability and resilience in cities [16,17]. These green spaces offer visitors a variety of benefits, including opportunities for recreation, social engagement, physical activity, cultural enrichment, mental relaxation, and stress reduction [18,19]. The advantages span multiple dimensions: environmental, health-related, social, and economic. Environmentally, public parks contribute to climate regulation, provide habitats for various species, and enhance the urban landscape, making cities more livable. In terms of health, they offer urban residents a respite from the stresses of daily life, providing a space to reconnect with nature. Socially, parks foster a sense of community, encouraging interaction and a feeling of belonging. Economically, they generate jobs and services, benefiting both locals and visitors [20]. This is particularly important for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11), which aims to “make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable” [21]. This includes the provision of green areas, including nature-based parks.

Nature-based parks are defined as green spaces managed to prioritize natural features, ecosystems, and biodiversity. Nature-based parks stand apart from traditional urban parks by emphasizing natural landscapes and ecological features rather than built structures. These parks aim to strike a balance between recreational use and the conservation of local ecosystems, supporting both urban sustainability and public well-being. Around the world, examples such as New York’s Central Park and Riyadh’s Wadi Hanifa demonstrate how these spaces can become essential urban assets. Integrating elements of the natural landscape into the design of urban public spaces holds significant potential, particularly in countries with abundant natural assets [22]. Some nations have even enacted specific legislation and guidelines to protect and enhance these areas [23].

Effective park design relies on a thorough understanding of the needs and usage patterns of the anticipated visitors, including their social needs, activity preferences, and frequency of use [24]. When parks are designed to meet the diverse requirements of people across all age groups and backgrounds, user satisfaction and park utilization significantly increase [25,26]. High user satisfaction is a key indicator of how well public parks meet the needs of their users, which can foster greater community engagement and enhance well-being. User satisfaction with public parks can be measured using several methods. One common approach is surveys, where users provide feedback on various park features, often using a Likert scale to produce an average satisfaction score [27]. Social media analysis, examining user comments, hashtags, and location tags related to urban parks, can also be an effective way to gauge satisfaction and identify areas needing improvement. Additionally, visitation rates and patterns serve as valuable indicators of user satisfaction. High visitation rates are often a sign of a positive user perception and satisfaction with park spaces [28].

Direct observation, based on a set of quality indicators across several domains, is another method for assessing satisfaction [29]. These domains should be adapted to the local culture and climate rather than following a fixed set [30]. Quality of life (QoL) indexes, which integrate both subjective and objective indicators, provide a broader assessment of satisfaction within the context of overall urban quality [31]. Collecting data over time can yield insights into the cumulative effects of visitor behavior on park resources, offering park managers and policymakers a clearer picture of users’ current attitudes and satisfaction with specific park features [32]. These features include proximity, accessibility, a diversity of activities, visual quality, safety, comfort, a variety of greenery, the adequacy of recreational facilities, public amenities, urban furniture, cleanliness, and ongoing maintenance [33,34,35,36,37,38]. In nature-based parks, natural amenities and a strong connection with nature are particularly vital in determining the park’s quality and usability [19].

Several studies have assessed the design quality of public parks. Abdul Malek et al. [39] examined key factors for evaluating public parks in Malaysia using a quantitative approach, with a survey of 15 parks to determine the most crucial criteria. They identified eight primary factors: accessibility, facilities, safety and security, activities, usage patterns, social sustainability, place attachment, and nature preferences. Ahirrao and Khan [40] conducted a similar evaluation in India, focusing on two public parks through a self-administered questionnaire and observational analysis. They used an evaluation index incorporating five aspects: individual well-being, inclusiveness, engagement, sustainable spaces, and management. In another study, Lorenzo et al. [41] analyzed 12 urban parks in Tenerife, the Canary Islands, through field observations and user surveys on environmental quality. This study assessed 11 attributes, including accessibility, views, amenities, signage, safety, cleanliness, organization, sensory elements, lighting, and noise reduction. Lorenzo et al. concluded that users are effective evaluators of park design quality and that a public space characteristics questionnaire is a valuable tool for identifying strengths and weaknesses in park design.

In the Saudi context, several studies have explored public parks [42,43,44]. For instance, Maniruzzaman et al. [45] assessed resident satisfaction with two urban parks in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, through face-to-face surveys. The study evaluated three categories of attributes: amenities (e.g., walking/jogging tracks, seating, shade, waste bins, play areas, restrooms), aesthetics (e.g., landscaping, overall appearance, cleanliness), and convenience and safety (e.g., pollution levels, lighting, crime concerns, harassment fears, accessibility, routes). Alnaim and Noaime [46] conducted a similar evaluation of public spaces in Hail, focusing on users’ perceptions amid cultural changes in Saudi Arabia. Using field observations and on-site interviews, they assessed quality based on accessibility, activities, amenities, appeal, safety, and maintenance. Their findings emphasized the need for more research into the relationship between park design and user behavior and culture, along with the importance of developing urban design standards to enhance the quality and usability of public spaces in Saudi Arabia.

The existing literature underscores the importance of public parks, highlighting their essential role for both cities and communities. However, there remains a distinct gap in research on the critical design attributes of successful public parks in the nature-based context in the territory of Saudi Arabia. This study aims to address this gap by analyzing a real-time case study to assess users’ satisfaction with the urban design characteristics of Wadi Hanifa Park in Riyadh. The study further seeks to identify recommendations to enhance the park’s usability and social impact.

3. Materials and Methods

This study employed a three-phase approach to achieve its objectives, as illustrated in Figure 1. In the first phase, an extensive literature review was conducted to identify the design attributes relevant for evaluating the urban design of nature-based parks. The second phase involved a field study to collect data about the park’s urban design and gather insights on user experience and satisfaction. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection through direct observation and a questionnaire survey. Direct observation, or observational study, is a method for evaluative data collection by observing subjects in their natural environment without altering that environment. It is a common method used in exploratory and descriptive research to document people’s behavior or place characteristics. It can be structured or unstructured, and can be used to collect both qualitative and quantitative insights [47]. Additionally, direct observation is a common tool for assessing park design quality [48]. However, it requires validation to minimize bias, which is often achieved through user experience surveys. In the third phase, the study analyzed the questionnaire results using the Excel program by Microsoft and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences v.16 by SPSS Inc as explained below.

3.1. Case Study Description

This study provides design recommendations to improve the quality and usability of nature-based parks in Saudi Arabia, using Wadi Hanifa Park in Riyadh as a case study. Extending from the Tuwaiq Mountains in the north to Al-Hair in the south, Wadi Hanifa stretches 120 km, with a width ranging from 100 to 1000 m [49], as shown in Figure 2. In recent decades, parts of the valley have been subjected to intensive exploitation, causing environmental degradation. To restore balance between the valley’s resources and the needs of nearby residents, the Al-Riyadh Development Authority has launched a comprehensive strategy to revitalize Wadi Hanifa Park as an environmental, recreational, and tourism destination [50].

In March 2010, Wadi Hanifa was reopened following an extensive revitalization project. This project received the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in recognition of its innovative approach to revitalizing Wadi Hanifa as a heritage and environmental conservation area through a unique water management system. The project involved preserving the natural environment, expanding agricultural land within the valley, and establishing an eco-friendly wastewater treatment facility. In addition, it created public spaces that integrate residential, recreational, and cultural activities, serving the local community while enhancing environmental, social, and economic sustainability in Riyadh. The field study focused on two zones within the park selected for their prominent natural features, including water bodies. These zones are referred to as Zone 1, the Wadi Hanifa Dam lakes, and Zone 2, the Namar Dam lake, as shown in Figure 2. Both zones feature lakes, pedestrian paths, and seating areas [15,50].

Zone 1 is a family-oriented area accessible by multiple routes, with sufficient parking spaces, while Zone 2 features an organized and visually appealing landscape, designed to resemble a corniche area. Figure 3 illustrates several urban design features of the two investigated zones. Upon entering Zone 1, a guard house and regular security patrols contribute to a sense of safety. Additionally, the presence of road bollards and a buffer separating the roads from the public area enhances aesthetics and reduces noise, allowing children to play safely and visitors to feel more secure. Large, uniquely designed seating areas accommodate families and larger groups, promoting social interaction while providing privacy. Additionally, cultural elements are incorporated to foster a sense of belonging and reinforce place identity. The public areas are well-integrated with natural features, including water bodies equipped with bioremediation facilities to enhance water quality. The valley’s water is used for irrigation throughout the park, supporting palm cultivation, which provides a source of dates. Additionally, river stones and rocks are strategically placed to prevent flooding and serve as aesthetic elements. Various playgrounds and activities are available for children, enriching the visitor experience. The park also features extensive pathways with wayfinding signs, informational panels, trash cans, and public restrooms along the routes, which encourage visitor engagement and foster social interaction.

In Zone 2, the observed wide sidewalks enhance walkability and encourage social interaction, offering a more accessible experience than Zone 1. The varied topography provides unique views, allowing visitors to sit comfortably and enjoy scenic vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Situated near highways and main roads, Zone 2 is easily reachable via multiple barrier-free access routes, with clear street signage guiding visitors to the park. Security patrols are present throughout the park, and safety is further reinforced with numerous warning signs, pathway fences, and road bollards. The area is also accessible for visitors with disabilities, and public restrooms and trash cans are conveniently available.

3.2. User Satisfaction Questionnaire

The questionnaire survey was administered during a seven-day site observation period, from 16–22 November 2023, covering different times of day across an entire week to capture a diverse range of respondents. The sample size was calculated using ABS Sample Size Calculator with a 95% confidence level and a 0.1 confidence interval [52]. Using convenience sampling, park visitors were selected to represent a variety of ages, educational backgrounds, and genders. Respondents submitted their answers online via Google Forms, accessible through a Quick Response (QR) code shared with park visitors. A total of 90 completed questionnaires were collected. The survey consisted of two sections with both closed-ended and open-ended questions to support quantitative and qualitative analysis. The first section collected demographic information, including age, gender, education, and frequency of park visits. The second section assessed users’ satisfaction with the park’s urban design, exploring seven design domains. Each domain included two closed-ended questions and one open-ended question, resulting in a total of 21 questions that addressed the specific design criteria identified in the literature review as follows:

• Accessibility and Linkage: How satisfied are you with
  • The ease of access and pathways to Wadi Hanifa Park?
  • The sufficiency and clarity of the available signage in the area?
• Safety and Security: How satisfied are you with
  • Lighting in the area during the night?
  • Surveillance measures in the area such as cameras and security guards?
• Preserving Environmental Elements: How satisfied are you with
  • The vegetation and plant species in Wadi Hanifa Park?
  • The preservation of environmental and natural elements in the park?
• Recreational Amenities and Services: How satisfied are you with
  • Recreational and leisure time facilities such as playing, eating, and drinking facilities, and their sufficiency for visitors?
  • Visitors’ services such as restrooms?
• Social Benefits and Interaction: How satisfied are you with
  • The promotion of social interaction and engagement among visitors?
  • Public activities and their adequacy to different user groups?
• Visual Attractiveness: How satisfied are you with
  • The aesthetics and attractiveness of the park?
  • The level of cleanliness and maintenance of the place?
• Urban Furniture and Shading: How satisfied are you with
  • The quality of the park furniture, such as benches, seating areas, trash cans, and lighting fixtures?
  • The availability and effectiveness of the shading elements to improve visitors’ comfort?

The collected data were coded and entered into SPSS for analysis. Closed-ended questions measured users’ satisfaction on a five-point Likert scale using the following options: very satisfied, satisfied, neutral, dissatisfied, very dissatisfied. The weighted mean and Relative Importance Index (RII) were then calculated for each design criterion. Various mean comparison tests, including a one-sample t-test, independent samples t-test, and one-way ANOVA, were conducted to assess users’ overall satisfaction and analyze differences in satisfaction levels between the different groups. As mentioned above, each of the seven design domains included one open-ended question to gather user feedback and suggestions for making the park more responsive to their needs. Based on these responses, the study identified strengths and weaknesses in the case study and proposed several recommendations to address them.

4. Results and Discussion

Table 1. Sample characteristics.

Variable	Options	N	%
Age	Under 18 years	5	5.6
	18–29 years	15	16.7
	30–44 years	56	62.2
	45–60 years	12	13.3
	Over 60 years	2	2.2
	Total	90	100
Gender	Male	52	57.8
	Female	38	42.2
	Total	90	100
Education	School students	3	3.3
	High school or diploma	19	21.1
	Bachelor’s degree	56	62.2
	Postgraduate	12	13.3
	Total	90	100
Visitation frequency	Rarely	5	5.6
	Occasionally (occasions/holidays)	14	15.6
	Sometimes (once a month)	30	33.3
	Frequently (once every two weeks)	16	17.8
	Always (once a week)	25	27.8
	Total	90	100
Visitation pattern	Alone	0	0.0
	Collective (with family)	74	82.2
	Collective (with friends)	16	17.8
	Total	90	100

presents the characteristics of the sample and visitation frequency. Males and females were nearly equally represented, comprising 57.8% and 42.2% of the sample, respectively. The majority of visitors were aged 30 to 44 years, while the smallest groups were those under 18 and over 60. Regarding educational attainment, most respondents (62%) held a Bachelor’s degree, with nearly all others possessing either a high school diploma or a postgraduate degree. A significant majority of visitors (82%) came to the park with their families, while 18% visited with friends. This indicates the importance of providing family-oriented services including children. The frequency of visits varied, with approximately one-third (33%) visiting the park once a month and less than one-third (28%) visiting weekly.

The second section of the questionnaire aimed to assess users’ satisfaction with the park’s urban design by exploring seven design domains as explained in Section 3.2. The study first evaluated the data normality using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. The data were normally distributed for the overall satisfaction variable, as a significance value of 0.66 was observed, exceeding the assumed significance level of α ≤ 0.05. For each individual domain of the seven satisfaction domains presented in Section 3.2, the data were not normally distributed. However, for a sample size exceeding 80 sampling units, it is accepted to run a t-test even if the data are not normally distributed [53]. Next, the study assessed the validity of the questionnaire, using the Pearson correlation to ensure that each section was well correlated with the overall questionnaire. As shown in

Table 2. Validity test of the questionnaire using Pearson correlation.

		Domain 1	Domain 2	Domain 3	Domain 4	Domain 5	Domain 6	Domain 7
Domain 1	Pearson Correlation	1	0.535 **	0.533 **	0.566 **	0.502 **	0.527 **	0.419 **
	Sig. (2-tailed)	--	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000
Domain 2	Pearson Correlation	0.535 **	1	0.538 **	0.598 **	0.451 **	0.462 **	0.539 **
	Sig. (2-tailed)	0.000	--	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000
Domain 3	Pearson Correlation	0.533 **	0.538 **	1	0.549 **	0.421 **	0.582 **	0.524 **
	Sig. (2-tailed)	0.000	0.000	--	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000
Domain 4	Pearson Correlation	0.566 **	0.598 **	0.549 **	1	0.619 **	0.544 **	0.609 **
	Sig. (2-tailed)	0.000	0.000	0.000	--	0.000	0.000	0.000
Domain 5	Pearson Correlation	0.502 **	0.451 **	0.421 **	0.619**	1	0.531 **	0.573 **
	Sig. (2-tailed)	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000	--	0.000	0.000
Domain 6	Pearson Correlation	0.527 **	0.462 **	0.582 **	0.544 **	0.531 **	1	0.593 **
	Sig. (2-tailed)	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000	--	0.000
Domain 7	Pearson Correlation	0.419 **	0.539 **	0.524 **	0.609 **	0.573 **	0.593 **	1
	Sig. (2-tailed)	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000	0.000	--

** Correlation is significant at 0.01 level (two-tailed).

, the correlation coefficients were significant at a level of α ≤ 0.01, confirming the questionnaire’s validity. Finally, the reliability of the questionnaire was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the seven domains. The calculated alpha coefficient of 0.886 indicates a high level of reliability.

Figure 4 and

Table 3. Weighted means of users’ satisfaction level and RII of the 14 investigated design criteria.

Domain	Design Criteria	Weighted Mean	RII	Rank
1. Accessibility and Linkage	1.1 Ease of accessibility and pathways to the park	3.62	0.72	4
	1.2 Sufficiency and clarity of available signage	3.78	0.76	1
2. Safety and Security	2.1 Lighting levels during night	2.93	0.59	11
	2.2 Surveillance measures	3.40	0.68	6
3. Preserving Environmental Elements	3.1 Vegetation quality	3.28	0.66	7
	3.2 Natural elements’ preservation	3.67	0.73	3
4. Recreational Amenities and Services	4.1 Sufficiency of recreational facilities	3.02	0.60	10
	4.2 Public services including WCs	3.00	0.60	10
5. Social Benefits and Interaction	5.1 Social interaction and engagement	3.56	0.71	5
	5.2 Social activities	3.29	0.66	7
6. Visual Attractiveness	6.1 Visual quality	3.78	0.76	1
	6.2 Cleanliness and maintenance	3.72	0.74	2
7. Urban Furniture and Shading	7.1 Adequacy and quality of urban furniture	3.20	0.64	8
	7.2 Sufficiency of shading elements	3.07	0.61	9

present the results related to users’ satisfaction. Users’ satisfaction with the various design aspects displayed a noticeable variability. Relatively high satisfaction levels were reported for several features, with the top three ratings awarded to visual quality (3.78 out of 5), the sufficiency and clarity of the available signage (3.78 out of 5), and cleanliness and maintenance (3.72 out of 5). Additionally, the preservation of natural elements received a score of 3.67 out of 5. Conversely, lower satisfaction levels were noted in certain areas, including lighting levels at night (2.93 out of 5), the adequacy of recreational facilities (3.02 out of 5), the quality of public services such as restrooms (3.0 out of 5), and the adequacy of shading elements (3.07 out of 5). To assess overall satisfaction, a one-sample t-test was employed to evaluate the null hypothesis that “users are not satisfied with the design elements and services at Wadi Hanifah Park”, using a significance level of α ≤ 0.05. The test value was set at 3, representing the hypothesized midpoint of satisfaction, with a confidence interval of 95%. The results indicated a weighted mean overall satisfaction level of 3.38 out of 5, and the calculated significance value was 0.0. Consequently, we reject the null hypothesis, suggesting that users are generally satisfied with the design and services provided at the park.

An independent samples t-test was employed to compare satisfaction levels between male and female respondents.

Table 4. Results of the independent sample t-test to examine the difference between male and female respondents regarding their satisfaction with the urban design of the park.

Domain	Mean for Males (N = 52)	Mean for Females (N = 38)	Sig. (2-Tailed)
Overall Satisfaction	3.489	3.231	0.061
Domain 1: Accessibility and Linkage	3.827	3.526	0.058
Domain 2: Safety and Security	3.394	2.855	0.010
Domain 3: Preserving Environmental Elements	3.596	3.303	0.106
Domain 4: Recreational Amenities and Services	3.154	2.816	0.111
Domain 5: Social Benefits and Interaction	3.452	3.382	0.718
Domain 6: Visual Attractiveness	3.779	3.724	0.722
Domain 7: Urban Furniture and Shading	3.221	3.013	0.274

indicates that the average overall satisfaction score for male respondents was 3.49 out of 5, slightly higher than the 3.23 reported for female respondents. The t-test produced a significance (Sig.) value of 0.061, just above the assumed significance threshold of α ≤ 0.05. Thus, we accept the null hypothesis, concluding that there is no statistically significant difference in overall satisfaction with the park’s urban design between male and female respondents.

Table 5. Results of the one-way ANOVA test to examine the impact of age group on respondents’ overall satisfaction with the urban design of the park.

	Sum of Squares	df	Mean Square	F	Sig.
Between Groups	2.676	4	0.669	1.462	0.221
Within Groups	38.884	85	0.457
Total	41.559	89

shows that a statistically significant difference in terms of satisfaction could be observed between male and female respondents in the domain of Safety and Security. The lower satisfaction level observed among female respondents in this domain warrants further investigation, focusing on their detailed feedback presented at the end of this section. The independent sample t-test was applied to compare satisfaction levels between respondents visiting the park with family versus those visiting with friends. The results showed that those visiting with family reported an average satisfaction of 3.39, while those visiting with friends reported an average of 3.31. The Sig. value from the t-test was 0.685, indicating that we accept the null hypothesis, as there is no statistically significant difference in overall satisfaction between these groups regarding the park’s urban design.

Additionally, a one-way ANOVA test was conducted to examine satisfaction differences across various age groups. The highest overall satisfaction level, at 3.38, was observed among respondents aged 30 to under 45 years, who represent 62% of the sample. In contrast, the lowest satisfaction level, at 3.17, was recorded among those aged 45 to under 60 years, comprising 13% of the sample. However, this difference is not statistically significant. As shown in Table 5, the F value was 1.462, with a Sig. value of 0.22, which is not statistically significant. This result suggests no significant differences in overall satisfaction among the different age groups. Nevertheless, the observed satisfaction levels across all groups ranged between 3 and 4, suggesting room for improvement. Interventions that address the specific needs of these diverse groups may further enhance overall satisfaction with the park’s design.

Overall, respondents’ answers closely aligned with the observations recorded during the observatory field study, indicating a shared perception that several improvement measures are necessary. In terms of accessibility and connectivity, 54% of respondents expressed satisfaction with this aspect. One main issue in this regard is providing proper access for individuals with disabilities, as some pathways are not adequately paved and some obstacles should be removed. Despite the progress that has been made in this regard, there is a need for more adaptation and maintenance of public parks in Saudi Arabia to make them more accessible and encourage physical activity among wheelchair users. This includes ramps, pathway finishing materials, benches, picnic tables, and restrooms [54]. A higher level of satisfaction was reported regarding the sufficiency and clarity of the available guiding signs and panels, with 67% of participants indicating they were pleased in this regard. Respondents offered several suggestions to enhance walkability in Wadi Hanifa Park, including the establishment of dedicated lanes for cycling, scootering, and running to reduce injury risks; improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities; widening pathways in certain areas; adding more drinking water stations along the paths; and ensuring the proper maintenance of pathway surfaces with the appropriate materials. Notably, one suggestion was to connect Wadi Hanifa Park with the Riyadh Metro project and the public bus network, which could significantly enhance accessibility, particularly during holidays and weekends, thereby alleviating traffic congestion.

In terms of safety and security, two specific issues were addressed: lighting levels at night and the availability of surveillance measures. Satisfaction levels for these aspects were reported at 39% and 52%, respectively. These relatively low ratings reflect concerns raised by respondents, including inadequate lighting at night, which weakens the overall sense of security; the necessity for increased surveillance cameras, particularly in areas distant from the surrounding streets; and the importance of constructing a fence around the lake and valley routes to enhance pedestrian safety, especially for children. Lighting levels at night emerged as a primary concern among female respondents, who reported a low satisfaction level of 2.58, compared to 3.19 for male respondents. A similar observation was noticed regarding surveillance measures, such as cameras, with female respondents reporting a satisfaction level of 3.13, compared to 3.6 for male respondents. This is an important issue as it is directly related to target 11.7 of Sustainable Development Goal 11, which aims to “provide universal access to safe, inclusive, and accessible green and public spaces, in particular for women and children, older persons, and persons with disabilities” [21]. Regarding environmental quality, 52% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the quality of vegetation, while 62% were satisfied with the preservation of natural elements. Suggestions for improvement included the addition of more vegetation and flowering plants, particularly native species, to enhance place identity and provide better urban shading.

In the area of recreational amenities and services, a low satisfaction level of just 38% was noted concerning the sufficiency of recreational facilities and the quality of public services, including restrooms. Respondents recommended several enhancements, such as introducing a bike and scooter rental service and adding more playgrounds for children. This is essential, as young people, and therefore families, are more likely to be attracted to public parks if they offer facilities that support physical activities [55]. Respondents also recommended creating reading areas with self-service book rentals and providing food services, which are currently lacking. Permanent food and beverage facilities should be established at multiple locations within the park, offering a variety of options to cater to visitors’ needs. Regarding social benefits and interaction, two specific aspects were evaluated: the level of social engagement and the quality of social activities. Satisfaction levels for these areas were reported at 57% and 42%, respectively. The park features well-organized seating areas for families and groups, but visitors expressed a desire for improved social interaction. They suggested organizing community-oriented activities, such as cultural events and sports competitions, to encourage longer visits to the park. Additionally, they recommended incorporating water entertainment facilities and activities to further enhance community engagement. In terms of visual attractiveness, 73% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the visual quality, while 62% were pleased with the cleanliness and maintenance of the area. To further enhance the park’s visual appeal, respondents recommended incorporating sculptural and artistic elements, as well as planting more flowers. Enhancing visual quality is a crucial element in the urban design of public parks, attracting visitors by offering relaxation, where they can take a break from the visual monotony of the city [56].

The final domain assessed in the questionnaire focused on urban furniture and shading. The adequacy and quality of urban furniture, along with the sufficiency of shading elements, received relatively low satisfaction ratings, with only 41% and 34% of users reporting satisfaction, respectively. This aligns with the findings of the observatory study, which indicated a pressing need for more comfortable benches, particularly for the elderly and those with disabilities. This also aligns with several studies highlighting the need to enhance outdoor shading in public spaces in Saudi Arabia to counteract extreme temperatures and the urban heat island effect, thereby improving outdoor thermal comfort and encouraging increased use of these spaces [57]. Shading elements, such as trees, pergolas, and canopies, also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of public parks, enriching the visual landscape and creating more inviting environments. Planting more native trees that provide shading and require less maintenance, such as Zizyphus spina-christi (Sidr) and Acacia gerrardii (talh) trees, is recommended in this regard [14]. To improve visitor comfort, respondents also suggested adding barbecue facilities, display screens, charging ports, designated camping areas, and more comfortable seating options. Some also proposed implementing evaporative cooling techniques, such as water sprays along the pedestrian pathways, to alleviate the high summer temperatures.

Figure 5 summarizes the points that need improvement to improve usability of the park from the visitors’ viewpoint, along with the frequency of each point mentioned in the collected responses. The most frequently cited issue, highlighted by half of the respondents, was the insufficient presence of flowers and greenery. This reflects their high expectations when visiting nature-based parks like Wadi Hanifa Park, especially given the availability of water resources. This shows that the aesthetic quality of parks, encompassing their landscaping, design, and natural features, plays a pivotal role in enhancing user satisfaction. This is especially relevant for nature-based parks such as Wadi Hanifa, where the interplay between natural and built environments is thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of harmony. This aligns with the findings of Rouhi et al. [58], who identified three key factors likely to enhance public support for urban parks. These factors are: incorporating diverse natural elements like trees and ponds, ensuring safety and security, and addressing the needs of various age groups in park design. Thus, it is recommended to plant native species, as they require less water, enhance the park’s visual appeal, strengthen place identity, and contribute to overall biodiversity.

This suggestion is closely followed by the need for more diverse playgrounds for children, given that the park is a family-oriented public space. Additionally, the creation of more comfortable seating areas would enhance social gatherings and interactions. These recommendations can serve as a guide for prioritizing necessary interventions in Wadi Hanifa Park and similar locations throughout the country, ultimately aiming to enhance their quality and usability. By implementing the various proposed measures and design solutions discussed above, Wadi Hanifa Park can be transformed into a more inclusive, engaging, and environmentally friendly public space that caters to a wide range of visitor needs and interests. Such improvements would significantly bolster the park’s role as a vital community hub, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for its visitors.

In general, the findings of this study have important implications for urban planning and policy frameworks aimed at enhancing green spaces in Saudi Arabia. Applying the above-discussed methodological framework for quantitatively assessing visitors’ satisfaction in nature-based public parks can help policymakers identify features that enhance the design of these parks, which contributes to improving residents’ satisfaction and quality of life. First, the emphasis on accessibility and safety highlights fundamental expectations for public space users. From a policy perspective, ensuring safe, easily accessible entrances, well-maintained pathways, and gender-sensitive designs is critical for fostering inclusive, community-oriented spaces that respect local cultural norms. Environmental sustainability also emerges as a central priority. Given Saudi Arabia’s challenging climate—with high temperatures and limited water resources—the sustainable design of nature-based parks is essential. The use of drought-resistant native plants, efficient irrigation systems, and strategically placed shade elements supports resource-efficient park spaces that also enhance user comfort. Wadi Hanifa’s implementation of native vegetation and water-conscious landscaping illustrates how sustainable design can thrive in arid environments. Cultural sensitivity is another significant consideration. In Saudi Arabia, parks serve not only as recreational areas but also as vital social hubs that reflect societal values and norms. Thus, it is important to design parks that accommodate family gatherings, provide privacy, and encourage usage during cooler evening hours. Policymakers and designers should integrate these culturally informed elements to create park spaces that align with the social fabric of Saudi communities and culturally similar communities in the region.

5. Conclusions

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has experienced rapid urban growth, highlighting the urgent need for more public open spaces, including parks. Public parks are important for the livability and sustainability of cities. Beyond providing a break from the built environment, these areas contribute significantly to social well-being, environmental quality, and urban resilience, as they provide essential areas for leisure and community gatherings, thereby enhancing the quality of urban environments. Furthermore, the development of nature-based parks in Saudi cities is crucial for creating ecological designs that work with local climatic conditions, enriching the natural experience and attracting more visitors. The success of these parks depends on meeting various design attributes that address the needs of the local community. This research focuses on evaluating users’ satisfaction with the design of nature-based parks in Saudi Arabia, using Wadi Hanifa Park as a case study. To achieve this objective, direct observation was utilized to gather data about the park, complemented by a questionnaire survey of park users to validate the findings from the observational analysis. Several design attributes were identified in the literature review, to develop an evaluation framework aimed at measuring users’ satisfaction with the park and suggesting prioritized interventions for design improvement. This approach proved valuable in identifying both strengths and weaknesses in the design of Wadi Hanifa Park.

The results indicated that users are generally satisfied with the design of the park. A weighted mean overall satisfaction score of 3.38 out of 5 was observed, along with a statistically significant p-value. Respondents’ feedback closely aligned with the observations recorded during the observatory field study, indicating several strengths and successes within the park, including its high visual quality, sufficient and clear signage, cleanliness and maintenance, and the effective preservation of natural elements. However, certain aspects require intervention to improve users’ satisfaction, such as the adequacy of recreational facilities, the quality of public services, and the availability of shading elements. Despite the availability of water resources for irrigation, the greenery and vegetation in public areas fall short of expectations, diminishing the site’s visual appeal. Enhancing the sense of security in certain areas through installing surveillance cameras and improving lighting levels was also suggested, especially by female respondents. Additionally, the integration of smart technologies is recommended to enhance operational efficiency and the user experience. This could include digital signage, smart outdoor physical activities, and advanced technologies for park maintenance. Addressing these issues would enhance Wadi Hanifa Park’s safety, accessibility, and aesthetic appeal, ultimately fostering community well-being and improving visitors’ quality of life.

Despite the limitation of the results to the investigated case study, it is hoped that the findings of this study will provide valuable insights for stakeholders aiming to enhance the effectiveness of nature-based parks in improving the quality of life in Saudi cities. Based on the Wadi Hanifa park analysis, policymakers are recommended to establish similar parks across Saudi Arabia to address the country’s extreme weather challenges and maximize the benefits of natural amenities within and around urban areas. The planting of native species, along with green infrastructure strategies, including rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse, further supports irrigation needs, making parks more sustainable in arid regions. The development of national design guidelines for public park design is also recommended, to guide urban designers and policymakers in creating public spaces that meet the best practices in urban sustainability. The study also recommends the development of a national evaluation framework for these parks, considering the local environmental and social conditions in Saudi Arabia. This framework would ensure a consistent park quality evaluation and enhance users’ experience and satisfaction.

Furthermore, additional field studies are recommended to identify design priorities for upgrading the existing parks across different regions of Saudi Arabia. This is crucial for ensuring that these parks are inclusive, user-friendly, attractive, efficient, and sustainable.