Ali Hamad Al Marri
Qatar is known for its world-class public parks, offering residents and visitors beautifully designed green spaces that promote relaxation, recreation, and community engagement. Among these parks, Umm Al Seneem Park stands out as a groundbreaking achievement, earning a place in the Guinness World Records as the longest air-conditioned outdoor park in the world.
This remarkable innovation reflects Qatar’s commitment to sustainability, urban development, and improving the quality of life for its people.
Located in the heart of Doha, Umm Al Seneem Park spans an area of 130,000 square meters and offers a truly unique experience. Designed with advanced cooling technology, the park provides a comfortable environment for visitors year-round, even during the hottest summer months.
The shaded walkways and air-conditioned jogging tracks allow families, fitness enthusiasts, and nature lovers to enjoy outdoor activities without the discomfort of extreme heat. This pioneering concept highlights Qatar’s commitment to integrating modern technology with sustainable urban planning.
The significance of Umm Al Seneem Park goes beyond its technological innovation. It plays a crucial role in promoting public health and community well-being.
In the face of regional climate challenges, the park offers an innovative solution that enables residents to enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle in a safe and comfortable setting. Many residents now rely on the park as a daily destination for exercise, family outings, or simply relaxing in a green and peaceful environment.
The park also serves as a model of environmental responsibility. It features energy-efficient lighting, with LED fixtures that reduce light pollution and enhance power efficiency. Smart irrigation systems based on soil moisture sensors significantly reduce water waste while promoting plant sustainability. The park’s lush greenery and carefully selected plant varieties support local biodiversity and help sustain urban wildlife.
Designed to be interactive and educational, the park includes dedicated children’s areas, community activity zones, and environmental awareness stations that educate visitors on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. This educational aspect fosters a sense of environmental stewardship among the public, especially younger generations, by encouraging them to understand and value their connection to nature.
Umm Al Seneem Park also represents an important social space. It has become a favored venue for community gatherings, hosting sporting, cultural, and recreational events throughout the year. These events foster stronger social bonds and enhance communal engagement.
Additionally, the park’s accessibility and inclusive design—including pathways for people with disabilities—underscore Qatar’s commitment to building inclusive and welcoming public spaces for all.
Qatar’s vision for green development extends well beyond Umm Al Seneem. Projects such as Aspire Park, one of the largest parks in the region, and Al Bidda Park, known for its modern amenities and scenic views, further showcase the country’s dedication to providing vibrant, multi-functional green spaces. These destinations have become major attractions for residents and tourists alike, offering walking trails, play areas, and picturesque landscapes that reflect the harmony between urban growth and environmental preservation.
Strategically, these parks align with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasizes sustainable development across environmental, social, and economic dimensions. Green spaces play a critical role in reducing pollution, regulating city temperatures, and improving air quality. They are also integral to efforts aimed at enhancing overall livability and making cities more suitable for work, recreation, and residence.
The success of Umm Al Seneem Park has opened new possibilities in designing public spaces for hot climates. It has inspired other countries seeking to create sustainable, climate-responsive urban environments.
Several international organizations have praised Qatar’s approach, recognizing it as a pioneering model in addressing environmental challenges in a humane and innovative manner.
In conclusion, Qatar’s investment in public parks-particularly the record-breaking Umm Al Seneem Park - sets a new global benchmark for outdoor innovation. By integrating technology and sustainability, Qatar is redefining the concept of public spaces and ensuring a greener, more enjoyable future for all. This achievement proves that modern urban design can be smart, inclusive, and environmentally friendly, positioning Qatar as a global leader in sustainable urban development.
- Al Marri is an employee at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change , Reserves and Wildlife Department.
Al Marri is an employee at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change , Reserves and Wildlife Department.
