Framework for Enhancing Social Interaction Through Improved Access to Recreational Parks in Residential Neighborhoods in the Saudi Context: Case Study of the Dammam Metropolitan Area

Abstract

Several studies in the literature have emphasized that public open spaces, such as recreational parks in residential neighborhoods, play a crucial role in enhancing social interaction among residents. As such, access to these parks is a key factor that may influence their use and, in turn, affect the quality of social engagement within the community. Traditional approaches to park accessibility, which focus solely on physical distance, have notable limitations, as proximity alone does not reliably predict park usage. Therefore, physical accessibility should be complemented by assessments of perceived or psychological accessibility. This study is designed to propose a framework for enhancing social interaction through improved access to recreational parks in the residential neighborhoods of the Dammam Metropolitan Area (DMA). It employs a mixed-methods approach comprising two primary methodologies: (1) observational behavioral mapping to identify key influencing factors based on user activities within the selected case study areas, and (2) an end-user questionnaire survey analyzed through inferential statistics, specifically Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), to assess residents’ perceptions of park accessibility and social interaction. The results indicate that adequate park maintenance significantly improves physical accessibility, while elements such as safety are essential for fostering psychological comfort. The ANOVA results yielded an F-value of 4.72 and a p-value of 0.00, confirming a statistically significant effect of the park’s physical features on facilitating social contact among local residents. The study presents a framework that integrates key demographic and social factors influencing park usage, advocating for infrastructure improvements aligned with user perceptions to foster greater community engagement. It highlights that addressing psychological barriers is just as important as making physical enhancements to achieve effective park accessibility. By combining physical design, demographic insights, and user experiences, the framework serves as a practical guide for planning inclusive and socially responsive public spaces. This research contributes to the fields of urban planning, social sustainability, and environmental psychology by offering localized insights and practical tools for implementation. Future research is recommended to further refine urban strategies that promote equitable access to recreational parks, particularly by addressing demographic-specific needs and psychological barriers that influence social interaction in open spaces.

1. Introduction

Numerous studies highlight a lack of consensus regarding the definition of social interaction. Various interpretations exist, reflecting different disciplinary perspectives and contexts. Generally, social interaction refers to actions and exchanges between individuals within a community, such as borrowing or lending equipment, informal visits, or offering help during emergencies [1]. It is widely recognized that local social connections are essential to the social sustainability of urban communities, as they enhance residents’ sense of belonging and safety [2]. Other definitions emphasize the spoken or non-verbal exchanges between two or more individuals [3] or describe social interaction as ongoing informal discourse that facilitates access to social and economic resources and support [4]. Based on these varied perspectives, it is evident that no single definition is universally accepted. This study adopts a broad interpretation of social interaction, focusing on face-to-face exchanges and everyday social activities, including both verbal and non-verbal communication.

Research consistently shows that social interaction depends on the quality of the physical environment [5]. A well-designed space can encourage social engagement by offering opportunities for different types of interaction, from passive coexistence to active participation [6]. The physical environment exerts both direct and indirect effects on social interaction [5], influencing how long people remain in a space and their willingness to engage with others. Architectural and spatial features such as safety, attractiveness, and privacy shape users’ perceptions and behavior [7]. These perceived qualities affect psychological accessibility and influence where and how people choose to interact. In residential neighborhoods, enhancing the physical characteristics of parks such as safety, cleanliness, aesthetic appeal, proximity, and diverse activities can help reduce psychological barriers and increase park visitation. This, in turn, promotes more frequent and meaningful social interactions, contributing to the development of vibrant, socially sustainable public spaces.

Based on several studies, neighborhood social issues are diverse and vary across contexts. Commonly cited challenges in the literature include a lack of social cohesion such as social exclusion and isolation [8,9,10,11], limited access to services [8,9,10], and a shortage of open spaces [9,12]. Safety concerns and crime are also frequently noted issues [9,10]. These studies reveal a research gap within the Saudi context, particularly concerning social sustainability and the limited exploration of socially sustainable neighborhoods. Specifically, there is a lack of focus on social interaction among individuals in public open spaces [8,9,10,11,12]. Furthermore, while much of the existing literature emphasizes physical accessibility and the availability of parks, comparatively less attention has been given to psychological access to recreational parks [13,14].

To address the research gap and build upon the existing literature, this study aims to develop a framework for enhancing social interaction through improved access to recreational parks in residential neighborhoods. This goal directly supports the broader national objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which emphasizes improving the quality of life for citizens and residents and positioning Saudi Arabia as a desirable place to live [15].

This study specifically focuses on urban social stability at the neighborhood level, recognizing its vital role in achieving overall sustainable development [16]. As neighborhoods represent the micro-units of a city, their sustainability contributes directly to the resilience and livability of the broader urban environment. A well-designed, socially vibrant neighborhood is essential for guaranteeing the well-being and quality of life of its residents.

In line with these priorities, the Saudi government has launched a Quality-of-Life Program under Vision 2030. This program seeks to improve infrastructure and public services, including parks and green spaces that meet the fundamental needs of residents. Supporting this initiative, the current study is situated within the DMA and aims to provide actionable strategies for strengthening social interaction via enhanced access to neighborhood recreational parks. The research is guided by the following key questions:

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What socioeconomic and environmental factors influence access to recreational parks and social interaction among neighborhood residents?

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To what extent does access to recreational parks impact social interaction in residential neighborhoods within the DMA?

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What type of framework is suitable for improving social interaction through enhanced park access in residential areas?

To fulfill these aims, the study pursues three core objectives:

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To identify socioeconomic and environmental factors influencing recreational park access and social interaction based on a review of relevant literature and case studies.

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To assess, through end-user surveys and observational behavioral mapping, the extent to which park accessibility affects social interaction in the DMA neighborhoods.

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To develop a practical framework aimed at enhancing social interaction through improved access to neighborhood recreational parks in the DMA.

Therefore, the present study is organized into the following sections. Section 2 reviews relevant literature on the concept of social interaction and the factors influencing it within recreational parks. Section 3 outlines the methodology for data collection and analysis. Section 4 presents the results, while Section 5 discusses the key findings. Finally, Section 6 provides the conclusion and offers recommendations based on the study’s outcomes.

2. Literature Review

2.1. Urban Social Sustainability

Social sustainability is widely acknowledged as an essential concept in the field of sustainable urban development. However, it remains a subject of debate and confusion for many individuals [2,17,18]. In other words, previous literature suggests that the concept of social sustainability is unclear and contested [2,17,18]. Moreover, while numerous studies have examined neighborhoods as a geographic unit, less attention has been given specifically to the concept of social sustainability at the neighborhood scale [19,20]. In addition, several scholars argue that social sustainability receives less emphasis compared to the other two primary pillars of sustainable development: economic and environmental sustainability [16,18,20,21]. Some have suggested that this lack of attention has contributed to social sustainability being the least conceptually developed among the three [22]. Its intangible nature, along with context dependency, contributes to its underrepresentation in the literature, and poses both theoretical and methodological challenges [2,16,17,22]. As a result, the concept of social sustainability remains vague and contested, with interpretations varying by discipline and research objectives. To date, there is no universally accepted set of criteria to generalize the concept [16,23].

According to Yiftachel and Hedgcock [24], urban social sustainability refers to a city’s ongoing capacity to function as a sustainable environment for human interaction, communication, and cultural advancement. In their view, a socially sustainable city is characterized by vibrancy, cohesion, and a shared sense of belonging among its residents. Similarly, Assefa and Frostell [25] describe social sustainability as the ultimate goal of development, with economic and environmental sustainability serving as instruments to achieve it. They emphasize that urban social sustainability is a dynamic concept, shaped by cultural, temporal, and spatial factors.

Colantonio [16] defines social sustainability as the ability of individuals and communities to interact and pursue collective goals, while also considering environmental impacts. Likewise, Bacon et al. [26] argue that a socially sustainable neighborhood promotes both individual and community well-being, encompassing physical design and the social dynamics of the community. Enhancing social sustainability at the neighborhood level involves investing in infrastructure that enables social and cultural activities, supports community engagement, and fosters social cohesion. Based on the above perspectives, many scholars identify social interaction as a core indicator of social sustainability [16,24,26].

2.2. Social Interaction and Recreational Park Correlation

Several socio-economic factors significantly influence social interactions within neighborhoods [27,28], and implementing interaction-focused design in urban settings is key to enhancing these relationships and addressing sociocultural dynamics [29]. Physical open spaces, particularly neighborhood parks, play a vital role in urban development by serving as hubs for recreation, cultural exchange, and social bonding [5,30]. Open spaces naturally attract people, encouraging interaction and new activities through their design and atmosphere [31]. Their quality—shaped by observation, perception, and communications supports both social connectivity and psychological well-being [31,32].

Well-designed environments offer settings for a range of interactions, from casual encounters to meaningful social engagement [6,32]. The physical environment directly and indirectly influences how long people stay in a space and how likely they are to interact [33,34,35]. Features like seating, gardens, walking paths, and green spaces foster engagement [31]. Moreover, both physical elements (e.g., doors, walkways) and perceived qualities (e.g., safety, comfort, aesthetics) shape how people move through and connect with these environments [7].

These perceived qualities such as privacy, safety, and aesthetics affect people’s behavior and decisions about whether and how to use a space. Furthermore, Ewing and Handy [36] identified three categories of attributes that may influence user behavior in urban planning: physical aspects, design attributes, and user perception (Figure 1).

Previous studies have demonstrated a clear relationship between open space and social interaction among residents. As a result, this research focuses on neighborhood recreational parks, which are considered valuable settings for facilitating face-to-face social interaction among local residents [37]. Moreover, urban parks play a significant role in enhancing residents’ well-being and overall quality of life [38]. Research also indicates that access to parks positively influences the psychological well-being and satisfaction of citizens [38].

2.3. Recreational Parks Accessibility

Traditionally, park accessibility has been defined by proximity, aiming to reduce users’ travel distance [39]. However, proximity alone does not reliably predict park use, as other factors—such as park size, location, facilities, surrounding environment, and user attitudes—also play a significant role [40,41]. In transportation research, accessibility is broadly understood as the ease of reaching destinations [42], the potential for interaction [43], or an individual’s freedom to engage with their environment [44]. In public health, psychological accessibility—how individuals perceive access—has been linked to community facility use [45]. This study adopts a holistic view of recreational park accessibility, integrating both physical and psychological dimensions, unlike traditional approaches that treat them separately. Drawing on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) [46,47] and the Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA), accessibility is seen as mediated by perceptions and behavioral intentions [48]. These psychological factors act as internal motivators that influence actual behavior. Empirical evidence supports this framework, showing that perceived proximity and park quality, including safety [49,50], amenities [51,52], and social interaction opportunities [53,54,55], are strongly correlated with park use. Moreover, perceptions of neighborhood safety, street connectivity, and availability of local amenities significantly affect visit frequency [54,56,57].

In the context of urban residential environments, the concept of safety is more accurately discussed in terms of perceived safety, which reflects how individuals subjectively assess their surroundings rather than relying solely on objective measures such as crime rates or physical hazards. Baran et al. [58], for instance, emphasize that perceived safety in public parks is shaped by environmental design elements such as visibility, spatial openness, and lighting, which influence how safe users feel within these spaces. Similarly, Gao et al. [59] highlight the critical role of spatial layout and environmental cues in shaping children’s perceived safety in residential play areas, reinforcing that perceptions of safety are often a prerequisite for outdoor engagement. In light of such research, this study adopts the term perceived safety to reflect the psychological and emotional dimensions of safety experienced by residents in landscaped open spaces around residential buildings. This distinction is essential for understanding how environmental interventions may affect comfort, usage patterns, and social well-being in hot and humid urban settings.

The relationship between physical environments and park use is heavily influenced by environmental perception. Park [13] categorizes psychological accessibility into three key dimensions: perceived distance, perceived park quality, and perceived neighborhood environment. The perceived distance is shaped by individuals’ sense of accessibility and park availability. Perceived quality includes aspects like safety, cleanliness, attractiveness, maintenance, amenities, and social atmosphere, though additional factors may vary by study context [13].

Perception of the neighborhood environment involves elements such as safety from crime and traffic, aesthetic appeal, walkability, and access to destinations like shops and public facilities [13]. These perceptions differ across individuals and are influenced by socio-economic and demographic characteristics, which affect how people interpret and engage with spaces. When park features do not meet the needs of diverse user groups, usage may decline. Key socio-demographic factors affecting park use include age [60,61], gender [49,50], and socioeconomic status [57,58].

The study conducted by Cohen et al. [62] examined access to urban green spaces, such as parks, across various neighborhoods in five major U.S. cities. It explored the correlation between green space access, neighborhood safety, and socioeconomic disparities. Concerns over safety and perceived dangers were found to contribute to reduced park use in high-poverty areas. To assess the impact of perceived risk, the researchers conducted systematic observations of 48 parks and administered surveys to park users and residents in low-income neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Interestingly, most respondents across all parks viewed them as safe or extremely safe. The presence of homeless individuals was associated with increased park use, while the presence of intoxicated individuals correlated with decreased use. The most significant factor in boosting park use was the availability of scheduled and supervised activities. The study concluded that allocating resources to programming may be more effective in enhancing park usage than focusing solely on reducing perceived safety risks. This is supported by the low incidence of reported threats and the prevailing perception of safety among users, suggesting that efforts to promote utilization may benefit more from programming and user engagement than from safety interventions alone.

Similarly, Williams et al. [63] emphasized that safety is a crucial component of access to green spaces. When parks are perceived as unsafe, individuals are less likely to benefit from the health and social advantages they offer. Their study assessed disparities in access to green spaces across five medium-to-large U.S. cities using a parcel-level, network-based analysis. Access was measured through three indicators: proximity, congestion-adjusted acreage, and crime-adjusted closeness. The findings revealed significant deficiencies in access to safe parks, particularly in low-income and minority neighborhoods. Socioeconomic disparities in access were further exacerbated when safety was considered. The study concluded that enhancing perceived safety could significantly improve both park accessibility and environmental equity. However, it also noted that achieving true equity requires broader efforts beyond improving safety alone. The authors emphasized that effective access requires a balance between physical and perceived (psychological) accessibility.

In summary, traditional models of park accessibility that rely solely on physical proximity are insufficient, as they fail to predict actual usage. Evaluating perceived accessibility, including psychological comfort, safety, and environmental quality is essential. Therefore, improving park safety, visual appeal, cleanliness, proximity, and activity diversity for all social groups can reduce psychological barriers, increase visitation, and foster vibrant, inclusive public spaces. The findings of this study can support policymakers and park designers in developing more effective strategies to enhance park access, guided by psychological and perceptual considerations.

2.4. Socioeconomic and Environmental Factors Affect Recreational Parks Access and Social Interaction Among Neighborhood Residents

The study conducted by Alnaim et al. [14] emphasizes that social interaction is fundamental to societal sustainability and the overall quality of life. The research investigates recreational parks located within residential areas of the DMA with the aim of enhancing social interaction. Specifically, the study seeks to identify and prioritize the factors that influence social interaction in these parks. The influencing factors were derived from a review of relevant literature on social interaction in recreational spaces. An expert-based questionnaire was employed, asking participants to evaluate identified variables on a scale from “strongly agree” to “strongly disagree” regarding their effect on social interaction in parks. The results highlighted the significance of three major categories: Demographic Characteristics of Neighborhood Residents (DCNR), Physical Characteristics of Recreational Parks (PCRP), and Social Sustainability Characteristics (SSC).

The DCNR category includes demographic variables such as tenure type, age group, gender, marital status, number of children, employment status, education level, household income, working hours, transportation availability, and the presence of relatives in the same neighborhood. The PCRP category encompasses the physical features of recreational parks, including facility availability and management, types of recreational and physical activities, visual connectivity (permeability), affordance (place capacity), accessibility, periodic maintenance (e.g., lighting, jogging paths), climate-responsive design, landscape features (aesthetic appeal), safety measures, vending outlets, and hazard protection. The SSC category refers to social sustainability characteristics such as population density, user characteristics and interests, privacy, safety and security, and sense of community. The analysis revealed that within the DCNR category, the age group of neighborhood residents was the most significant factor influencing social interaction. In the PCRP category, regular maintenance of park facilities emerged as the most influential. Within the SSC category, safety and security were identified as the primary drivers of social interaction in recreational parks. The study concludes with targeted recommendations to address the key factors influencing social interaction in recreational parks, offering insights specifically tailored to the Saudi context, and particularly to neighborhoods within the DMA.

3. Materials and Methods

3.1. Study Area

The selected case study for this research is the DMA, located in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, approximately 360 km from the capital city, Riyadh. The DMA comprises Dammam, Khobar, and Dhahran. Each city plays a distinct role: Dammam serves as the provincial capital and hosts most regional administrative institutions; Khobar acts as the commercial hub of the province; and Dhahran is known for its role in modern technology and science, particularly in the petroleum sector, as it is home to the headquarters of the Arab American Oil Company (ARAMCO) [64,65].As the third-largest metropolitan area in Saudi Arabia, following Riyadh and Jeddah, the DMA is one of seven major urban centers that collectively house nearly half of the country’s 33 million residents [66]. Its three cities contribute uniquely to the region’s development: Dammam hosts the majority of administrative bodies, Khobar anchors the province’s economy, and Dhahran drives technological innovation, particularly in energy research [65,67]. The geographic location of the DMA is illustrated in Figure 2. This region was selected as a case study due to its rapid urban growth and significant economic development, primarily fueled by the service and industrial sectors. These characteristics make the DMA one of the most dynamic and attractive metropolitan areas in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In recent decades, the DMA has experienced substantial population growth, with the population more than doubling. It rose from approximately 365,000 residents in 1974 to 1.75 million in 2004, and currently exceeds 1.8 million, spread across an estimated total area of 380,000 hectares [61,65]. As urbanization accelerates globally, cities have emerged as key drivers of human development, attracting people seeking to fulfill their aspirations, ambitions, and basic needs. In response, the Saudi Arabian government has demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainable urban growth, as reflected in the strategic goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Among its core objectives, Vision 2030 emphasizes the creation of a thriving economy and vibrant society [15]. To support these goals, the government launched the Quality-of-Life Program, which challenges Saudi cities to rank among the world’s most desirable places to live. This initiative uses a comprehensive framework that evaluates multiple quality-of-life categories and dimensions [69].

The rationale for selecting the DMA as the case study lies in its status as a rapidly growing urban center, with economic expansion primarily driven by the service and industrial sectors. Furthermore, by focusing on social sustainability, this research contributes to Vision 2030’s broader objectives and supports the government’s agenda for sustainable urban development and national prosperity. In summary, the DMA offers a compelling and relevant case study for exploring urban development challenges and opportunities within the framework of Saudi Arabia’s strategic vision.

3.2. Data Collection and Analysis Methods

The proposed methodology initiates with a preparation phase, which includes an overview of social interaction and the identification of various factors affecting social interaction in recreational parks throughsecondary data collection (literature studies). These literature studies mainly depend on pertinent materials, including books, journals, articles, websites, conference papers, and ongoing initiatives.

Secondly, the research uses primary data acquired from observational behavioral mapping and end-user questionnaire surveys. Psychological accessibility to parks may be examined quantitatively via surveys and qualitatively through interviews and questionnaires. In addition to surveys and interviews, many approaches for evaluating psychological park accessibility are recorded in the literature [13,14]. Gehl and Svarre [70] advocated direct observation as the primary methodology in public space research. This methodology includes many approaches such as observational behavioral mapping, shadowing, and photographic analysis [60]. Although it serves as an indirect evaluation tool for psychological traits, its efficacy may be enhanced when combined with other methodologies. Wendel et al. [50] suggested that combining interviews with systematic behavioral observation might provide a more thorough comprehension of park use, including demographic characteristics. Additionally, as suggested by McCormack et al. [71], a mixed-method approach may combine quantitative surveys with qualitative observations or interviews, resulting in a more thorough study and generating new insights into the social and physical settings of park use. In other words, the end user survey gathers user-centric data related to perceptions, while observational mapping focuses on physical and environmental attributes, contributing to the broader understanding of space usage.Consequently, the study combinesdata from these two distinct sources: an end-user questionnaire survey and observational behavioral mapping. Based on this approach, both techniques were selected. Finally, the research aims to a framework to enhance social interaction by improving access to neighborhood recreational parks in the DMA. Figure 3 below illustrates the full sequence of the methodology.

3.2.1. Observation Behavioral Mapping Data Collection Method

Behavioral observation mapping is a qualitative method used to understand how people interact with specific spaces [72]. It involves systematically recording where, how, and what occurs within space [73]. Alsumsam [72] defines it as an objective tool for assessing actual spatial use. In this study, observations included user demographics (children, males, females), types of activities, days and times of use, and prevailing weather conditions. The qualitative data were analyzed to compare the case studies, identify the most frequent park activities, and determine the barriers and motivations influencing park access in residential neighborhoods across the DMA. The recreational parks were selected based on convenience, primarily ease of access and suitability for observational mapping, including photo documentation. The selection also considered each park’s perceived importance within the Saudi hierarchy of recreational parks. All chosen parks fall within the designated size range for neighborhood parks in Saudi Arabia (1000–10,000 m²).

Table 1. Areas and location characteristics of the recreational park according to the Saudi context (source: easternprovince municipality).

Recreational Park Classification	Location Characteristics	Area Range (m2)
Special recreational parks	Downtown or in strategic locations in cities	More than 100,000 m2
Medium recreational parks	Community/commercial/cultural	Range between 10,000 m2 and 100,000 m2
Neighborhood recreational parks	Neighborhood and communities	Range between 1000 m2 and 10,000 m2
Small recreational parks	A space surrounded by commercial buildings, homes, or regulatory overflow	Less than 1000 m2

presents the area and location characteristics of the selected parks.

According to Yin [73], case studies may include either single-case or multiple-case designs. This research applies two case studies (neighborhood recreational parks) in each city of the DMA to enhance the reliability of conclusions derived from the observational behavioral mapping technique.

3.2.2. End-User Questionnaire Survey Data Collection Method

Secondly, based on previous literature on social sustainability, the relevant factors influencing social interaction among neighborhood residents in the DMA were identified. Utilizing a questionnaire survey method, neighborhood residents were inquired about demographics, use patterns of the local recreational parks, satisfaction and perception regarding thephysical characteristics of the recreational parks, safety, environmental quality, and overall experience. The questionnaire survey is regarded as an effective instrument for systematically gathering data on individuals’ perspectives, beliefs, and attitudes [74]. Furthermore, for data collection froma large sample group, a self-completion questionnaire was used, knownfor its efficiency in cost, time, and energy [75]. The purpose of using a questionnaire is to infer from a sample to a population to derive conclusions on certain features, attitudes, or behaviors [76]. Determining an adequate sample size is crucial when conducting a questionnaire survey. The sample size for this research was determined using the Richard Geiger equation.

$$n={\displaystyle \frac{{\left(\frac{Z}{d}\right)}^2\times {\left(p\right)}^2}{1+\frac{1}{N}[{\left(\frac{Z}{d}\right)}^2\times {\left(p\right)}^2-1]}\mathrm{Equation}}$$

(1)

where n refers to the sample size, Z is the confidence level, p is the coefficient of variation of the population, d refers to the margin of error, and N is the population of the selected area. Consequently, the equation was utilized to calculate the proper sample size according to the DMA population. This research utilizedcross-tabulation to examine the relationship between different types of physical attributes and their impact on access to recreational parks and their effectiveness in influencing park us. Cross-tabulation in research is a method used to analyze the relationship between two or more categorical variables by displaying their interactions in a table format and the technique has been used in several academic journals [77,78]. In addition, the research employed descriptive statistical analysis of demographic and associated data to identify the features of certain groups and elucidate the differences and similarities among all replies. Descriptive statistics analysis is a method that consolidates, summarizes, condenses, and comprehends data sets effectively [79]. Furthermore, ANOVA was used to ascertain if significant differences exist among the means of three or more independent variables. This technique assesses the influence of one or more categorical independent factors on a continuous dependent variable by contrasting the variation within groups with the variance across groups [80].

4. Results

This section comprises two main parts. The first analyzes end-user behavior in recreational parks across selected case studies in each DMA city to identify factors influencing accessibility. The second presents findings from the end-user questionnaire survey, which explores users’ satisfaction, perceptions, and experiences with parks in residential areas. Descriptive, cross-tabulation, and statistical analyses were conducted to examine the relationships among key variables. The following paragraphs summarize the main results from both the observational behavioral mapping and the survey.

4.1. Observational Behavioural Mapping Results

This section analyzes end users’ behavior in the recreational parks of two selected case studies in Dammam, Khobar, and Dhahran to identify and recognize the motivations and barriers that may influence the accessibility to recreational parks. The observations occurred in November 2024 and February 2025; a period characterized by mild weather in the DMA. The observations occurred twice: once on a workday and once on a weekend, conducted three different times, namely in the morning from 6:00 to 8:00 AM on weekdays and from 8:00 to 11:30 AM at weekends, in the afternoon from 3:00 to 6:00 PM, and in the evening from 7:00 to 10:00 PM. Two recreational parks were selected in each city—Khobar, Dhahran, and Dammam. The selected recreational parks in Khobar are Al Areej Park and Nada Park. The selected recreational parks in Dhahran are Sadeem Park and Ajyal Park-1. Lastly, the selected recreational parks in Dammam are Raka Square Park and Ash Shulah Park. The number of individuals using each park was recorded throughout a 15 to 20-min observation period on both weekdays and weekends, andthe data weredocumented in prepared tables (Figure 4).

Throughout the observation periods, the temperatures were comfortable, with a low of 18 °C and a high of up to 35 °C. The weather was cold and warm on some days, except for a limited number of days characterized by hot and dry weather. The case studies are analyzed and presented. Initially, the ‘people counts’ of individuals who used the observed recreational parks are reported; thereafter, the behaviors and actions of users are documented, including their classification as male, female, or children (lessthan 18 years old). Figure 5 represents the location of each selected recreational park in the DMA.

Case Study 1:Khobar City

• Areej Park:

Areej Park, located in the Al Ulaya neighborhood of Khobar City, covers approximately 3576 m² and is surrounded by single-family homes and apartment buildings. As shown in Figure 6, the park features shaded seating areas for relaxation and social gatherings, a football field that attracts local youth, and a walking/running path bordered by green spaces. It also includes parking facilities, enhancing physical accessibility. While a children’s play area is available, it is limited in size and does not cater to diverse age groups.

Observational mapping revealed that Areej Park suffers from poor periodic maintenance, particularly of the jogging track and lighting. The uneven jogging path has caused falls, while the park remains completely unlit at night, undermining visitors’ sense of safety and negatively impacting psychological accessibility. Additionally, the park shows signs of poor cleanliness (see Figure 6), raising health concerns and further discouraging visits. No visitors were observed during weekdays or weekends, except for seven children playing football underscoring the park’s limited use. These findings highlight the urgent need for regular maintenance, including improvements to lighting, the football field, seating, play areas, and jogging paths. Overall, the assessment emphasizes that maintenance directly affects psychological access and visitor frequency.

• Nada Park:

Nada Park, located in the Al Hizam Al Thahabi neighborhood of Khobar, is approximately 4085 m² and is surrounded by single-family housing. As shown in Figure 7, the park features high visual permeability, allowing clear sightlines and visibility of recreational activities, which enhances user comfort and safety. It offers parking facilities, a walking/jogging path, and green areas, all of which contribute to its physical accessibility and visual appeal for local residents.

Although Nada Park offers several advantages, including a football field, shaded seating areas, a jogging route, and a play area, observational behavioral mapping revealed a low number of visitors on both weekdays and weekends, as shown in Figure 8. On weekdays, 11 children were observed playing football on the field. Similarly, observational mapping indicated a very limited number of visitors on weekends. Specifically, Figure 8 shows that 10 children were present in the afternoon and 15 men in the evening. According to the observations, playing football was the most frequent activity, primarily among children and occasionally among men.

The comparison of the two case studies in Khobar City highlights the critical role of park location (spatial distribution) within residential neighborhoods in influencing visitor numbers. Despite Nada Park’s ample physical amenities such as walking/jogging paths, play areas, rest zones, and green spaces—it experiences low visitation. This is likely because residents of villas typically have private yards or indoor playrooms, reducing their need to visit public parks. In contrast, apartment dwellers, who lack such private spaces, are more dependent on nearby parks, which explains higher visitor numbers in those areas. Additionally, the comparison underscores the importance of regular park maintenance. Nada Park suffers from uneven jogging tracks and poor lighting, especially at night, which creates safety concerns and deters visitors. Proper lighting is crucial for ensuring safety and enhancing residents’ psychological accessibility to the park. In summary, observational mapping and qualitative analysis identify two key factors limiting access to recreational parks: (1) their location relative to residential types and (2) the quality of periodic maintenance.

Case Study 2: Dharan City

• Sadeem Park:

Sadeem Park is situated in the Qusour area of Dhahran. The park’s estimated size is 3658.29 m². The park is situated in a mostly residential area characterized by single-family housing. Visual inspection of the park has shown that it offers several essential physical attributes (Figure 9). The park offers a walking and jogging track surrounded by green spaces, and shaded seating areas for relaxation, picnics, and social gatherings. The park also provides parking spaces for easy access. In addition, the park provides a play area, which consists of several pieces of recreational equipment, and accommodatesvarious age groups in order to attract children along with their families.

Sadeem Park, like Nada Park, is surrounded mainly by residential villas and offers key physical features such as play areas, shaded sitting spots, jogging tracks, and green spaces. Despite these amenities, both parks experience low visitor numbers. Observational mapping shows little difference between weekday and weekend attendance. For example, only one man visited on the weekday morning, primarily for jogging. In the afternoon, seven children and five women visited, while in the evening, eightchildren, two men, and six women were present. On weekends, only sevenchildren were observed. Interestingly, weekday visitor numbers exceeded weekend figures, which contrasts with typical Saudi social patterns. This is likely due to the hot, sunny weather during the weekend observations. Visitors mostly come in the afternoon and evening for activities such as relaxation, running, walking, family gatherings, and supervising children, who engage in playground activities like swinging and biking. The qualitative analysis suggests that the climatic environment is a major factor influencing access to recreational parks in the DMA residential neighborhoods.

• Ajyal Park-1

Ajyal Park-1 (Figure 10), located in the Ajyal residential neighborhood of Dhahran, covers approximately 7944 m² and is surrounded by single-family homes and apartment buildings. Its location directly in front of apartments enhances physical and psychological accessibility, encouraging frequent use due to proximity. The park features a walking and jogging track, green spaces, shaded seating areas for relaxation, picnics, and social gatherings, as well as parking for easy access. It also offers recreational equipment for various age groups and a safety fence for children. However, the fence maintains visual permeability, allowing residents to see the park’s activities, which may further encourage usage. Figure 10 illustrates visitor activities and key park amenities.

Observational mapping showed little difference in visitor numbers between weekdays and weekends, with limited use during early morning hours. As shown in Figure 11, only five men visited on weekday mornings, primarily for jogging. In the afternoon, 34 children and 14 women were observed, while evenings saw 33 visitors (18 children, 5 men, and 10 women). Weekend visitation patterns were similar, with 30 children, 2 men, and 7 women in the afternoon, and 15 children and 9 women in the evening. No visitors were observed on weekend mornings, likely because people rest or sleep during that time. Morning visits mainly involved walking or jogging before work, while afternoons and evenings were used for leisure, jogging, family gatherings, and supervising children. Children enjoyed playing with the playground equipment, such as the slides, swings, and bicycles. Shaded seating areas allow families to watch their children comfortably. Many visitors lived in the apartments opposite the park, suggesting that proximity to residential buildings improves access and encourages the use of recreational facilities in the neighborhood.

In summary, the comparison of the two Dhahran case studies highlights that the playground area directly influences the number of child visitors and, consequently, family visits. Observational mapping also underscored the importance of key physical features such as shaded seating, jogging paths, parking, and separate toilets for men and women in encouraging longer visits. Additionally, the comparison between Ajyal Park-1 and Sadeem Park revealed that spatial distribution plays a significant role in limiting access to recreational parks.

Case Study 3: Dammam City

• Raka Square Park

Raka Square Park, located in Dammam’s North Rakah Neighborhood, spans approximately 8151 m² and is surrounded by single-family homes and apartment buildings. Observational mapping reveals that while the park offers a large green space, its playground is inadequate and lacks equipment for various age groups, such as swings, slides, jungle gyms, and other recreational structures. In contrast, the park features a large football field, attracting children and youth for group play. It also includes a walking and jogging path surrounded by greenery, enhancing its visual appeal and encouraging physical activity. Shaded seating areas support relaxation, picnics, and social gatherings, and available parking improves accessibility. Figure 12 highlights the park’s physical features and user activities.

Observational mapping revealed no significant difference in visitor numbers between weekdays and weekends at Raka Square Park On weekdays, only six men were observed in the early morning, primarily jogging. In the afternoon, the park saw 8 children, 14 men, and 7 women; by evening, 10 children, 22 men, and 7 women were present. Weekend mornings showed minimal activity, with just two children, one man, and one woman. However, the afternoon attracted 22 children, 8 men, and 12 women, while the evening saw 8 children, 5 men, and 2 women. Overall, attendance was low across all periods, suggesting underlying factors that limit community use. Men and women primarily visited in the afternoon and evening for jogging, relaxing, socializing, and supervising children. Football was a common activity among men, and children mostly used the limited playground and football field. Compared to other parks like Ajyal-1, Raka Square Park attracted fewer children, largely due to the inadequate play area, which lacks diverse equipment for different age groups. This highlights the importance of well-equipped, age-inclusive playgrounds in attracting families. Additionally, the park lacks sufficient shaded seating, forcing visitors to use mats or other items. The absence of proper seating may hinder both formal and informal social interactions.

• Ash Shulah Park

Ash Shulah Park, located in Dammam’s Ash Shulah Neighborhood, spans approximately 1821 m² and is surrounded by single-family homes and apartment buildings. The park offers high visual permeability, allowing clear views of all areas and activities, which enhances its appeal and sense of safety. It includes designated parking and an accessible entrance for people with disabilities, promoting inclusivity and improving both physical and psychological accessibility. Key features include a wide walking and jogging track, expansive green spaces, and playgrounds that cater to various age groups encouraging family visits. The presence of food and drink kiosks further supports visitors’ comfort, especially in cooler weather. Figure 13 highlights visitor activities and the park’s physical attributes.

Observational mapping revealed no significant difference in visitor numbers between weekdays and weekends. As with previous case studies, weekday morning visits were limited to men, 21 in total, mainly for jogging before work. In the afternoon, 63 children, 29 men, and 34 women visited the park, while evening attendance included 16 children, 12 men, and 2 women. Similarly, weekend visitation patterns mirrored weekdays. As shown in Figure 14, afternoon visitors included 54 children, 9 men, and 10 women, while in the evening, 34 children, 11 men, and 6 women were observed. Morning attendance remained minimal, as most people tend to rest on weekends.

Morning visits are primarily for walking or jogging, highlighting the importance of jogging tracks as a key draw for this group. In the afternoon and evening, visitors, both men and women use the park for relaxation, exercise, socializing, and supervising children. Children frequently use the playground, ride bicycles, and play football. These patterns underscore the importance of various physical features in attracting diverse users: inclusive play areas, shaded seating, green spaces, football fields, and jogging tracks. Ultimately, the quality and accessibility of these features influence residents’ psychological perception of the park, which in turn affects its regular use.

Analysis of visitation data for the two recreational parks in Dammam highlights the significant impact of playground facilities on attracting children and, consequently, families. Observational mapping shows that Ash Shulah Park includes diverse play equipment suitable for various age groups, while Raka Square Park offers only limited play space, resulting in fewer child visitors. In the Saudi context, children typically visit parks with their families, making playgrounds a key factor in overall attendance. Alongside play areas, other essential features that encourage visitation include restrooms, shaded seating, jogging tracks, football fields, green spaces, and food and beverage kiosks. Notably, park size alone does not determine usage. For instance, although Raka Square Park spans 8151 m² and Ash Shulah Park only 1821 m², the latter receives significantly more visitors. This underscores the importance of amenities over sheer area.

Table 2. Number of people using recreational parks in selected case studies (source: authors).

				Weekdays			Weekends			Total
				Morning (6a.m. to 8a.m.)	Afternoon (3p.m. to 6p.m.)	Evening (8p.m. to 10p.m.)	Morning (8a.m. to 11:30a.m.)	Afternoon (3p.m. to 6p.m.)	Evening (8p.m. to 10p.m.)
	Khobar	Al Areej Park	Children	0	0	0	0	0	7	7
			Men	0	0	0	0	0	0
			Women	0	0	0	0	0	0
		Nada Park	Children	0	0	11	0	10	0	43
			Men	0	2	1	0	2	15
			Women	0	0	0	0	2	0
	Dhahran	Sadeem Park	Children	0	7	6	0	7	0	34
			Men	1	0	2	0	0	0
			Women	0	5	6	0	0	0
		Ajyal Park-1	Children	0	34	18	0	30	15	149
			Men	5	0	5	0	2	0
			Women	0	14	10	0	7	9
	Dammam	Raka Square Park	Children	0	8	10	2	23	8	136
			Men	6	14	22	1	8	5
			Women	0	7	7	1	12	2
		Ash Shulah Park	Children	0	63	16	2	54	34	292
			Men	3	29	12	5	9	11
			Women	0	34	2	2	10	6
	Total			15	217	128	13	176	112	661

presents visitor numbers across the three case studies—Khobar, Dhahran, and Dammam—using a color gradient to indicate the highest and lowest visitation levels during weekdays and weekends across morning, afternoon, and evening time slots.

In summary, this study focuses on the factors influencing access to recreational parks and their impact on park usage and community engagement among neighborhood residents. While traditional studies emphasize physical accessibility, extensive literature highlights its limitations in predicting park use. Therefore, physical access must be complemented by perceived or psychological accessibility. Enhancing safety, cleanliness, attractiveness, maintenance, andaccessibility, and offering diverse activities for all age groups can help reduce psychological barriers and increase visitation. Based on the comparison of the three case studies—Khobar, Dhahran, and Dammam—Figure 15 illustrates the key factors affecting access to recreational parks in residential neighborhoods.

Observational behavioral mapping has revealed that the neighborhood residents are visiting the recreational parks for three main reasons:jogging, family gatherings, and enjoying nature. This result is exactly consistent with the output of the end-user questionnaire survey conducted in the present study. Based on the qualitative analysis of observational behavioral mapping, five key factors have been revealed that may influence access to recreational parks:periodic maintenance, proximity, environmental and physical attributes, and lastly, the location of the parks. Consequently, enhancing the individual’s perceptions regarding these factors may reduce psychological barriers, improve access to the parks, and subsequently increase frequent use and social interaction. Similarly, the photographic documentation of the selected parks indicates that, in general, there are no major physical obstacles that would hinder access for individuals with physical disabilities. Most paths appear wide and level, and entrances are unobstructed. However, the images do not show specialized accessibility features such as tactile paving, auditory navigation aids, or adapted furniture for individuals with visual or other sensory impairments. The absence of such features suggests a gap in universal design practices, which should be considered in future park upgrades to ensure inclusivity for all users.

Table 3. Summary of key features across selected recreational parks (source: authors).

Park Name	Playground	Shaded Areas	Toilets	Seating Areas	Walking Paths	Water Features
Areej Park	+	+	–	+	+	–
Nada Park	+	+	–	+	+	–
Sadeem Park	+	+	–	+	+	–
Ajyal Park-1	+	+	–	+	+	–
Raka Square Park	+	+	+	+	+	+
Ash Shulah Park	+	+	–	+	+	–

Summary of key physical features present in each of the recreational parks analyzed. A plus sign (+) indicates that the feature is present; a minus sign (–) indicates it is absent.

and

Table 4. Summary of the conditions of the selected recreational parks (source: authors).

Park Name	Playground	Shaded Areas	Toilets	Seating	Walking Paths	Water Features
Areej Park	–	++	x	+	–	x
Nada Park	+	++	x	+	++	x
Sadeem Park	++	++	x	++	++	x
Ajyal Park-1	++	++	x	++	++	x
Raka Square Park	–	++	–	++	++	–
Ash Shulah Park	++	++	x	++	++	x

Condition assessment of park features across the selected recreational parks. Symbols: ++ (good), + (fair), –(poor), x (not available). This table allows for a quick comparative overview of both availability and quality of amenities.

below present a summary of key features across selected recreational parks and a summary of the conditions of the selected recreational parks, respectively.

4.2. End-User Questionnaire Survey Results

An online questionnaire was administered to residents of the DMA between December 2024 and February 2025. The survey was launched on 15 December 2024 and successfully completed by 256 participants, with no dropouts reported. On average, it took less than three minutes to complete. The questionnaire was hosted on the QuestionPro platform, which enabled secure and user-friendly submission of responses. Participants were given the option to complete the survey in either Arabic or English. Prior to beginning the questionnaire, all respondents were clearly informed about the purpose and objectives of the study to ensure informed participation.

The end-user questionnaire survey was designed to gain insight into residents’ perceptions, experiences, and preferences regarding recreational parks in residential neighborhoods within the DMA. The questionnaire consisted of several sections. The first twelve questions gathered demographic data, including locality, nationality, gender, age group, housing type, marital status, education level, employment status, workplace location, income, and family proximity. For instance, over 50% of respondents lived in Khobar, while nearly 24% were from Dammam. About 72% were Saudi citizens, 67% were male, and 46% were aged 18–24. Additionally, 46% lived in employer-provided housing, 74.6% were single, 35% had not completed their education, and 73% were unemployed. Among those employed, 55% worked within their neighborhoods, 57% earned less than 5000 SAR monthly, and around 52% reported having relatives nearby.

Table 5. Demographic information of the end-user questionnaire survey participants(source: authors).

Questions	Options	Percentage (5)
Q1—Locality (location they live)	Khobar	50.20%
	Dammam	23.92%
	Dhahran	12.55%
	None of the above	13.33%
Q2—Nationality	Saudi	72.55%
	Non-Saudi	27.45%
Q3—Gender	Male	67.19%
	Female	32.81%
Q4—Age Group	Under 18	28.91%
	18–24	46.09%
	25–34	10.55%
	35–44	6.64%
	45–54	5.47%
	Above 55	2.34%
Q5—Housing Type	Owner	28.63%
	Renter	25.10%
	Provided by employer or parents	46.27%
Q6—Marital Status	Single	74.60%
	Married	24.21%
	Divorced	0.40%
	Widowed	0.79%
Q7—Education Level	Not completed	34.90%
	High school/Diploma	27.84%
	Bachelors	28.24%
	Masters	7.06%
	Doctorate	1.96%
Q8—Employment	Not employed	73.02%
	Public sector	7.14%
	Private sector	17.46%
	Self-employed	1.19%
	Retired	1.19%
Q9—Relatives in Neighborhood	Yes	51.97%
	No	48.03%

presents the demographic details of the participants.

Beyond demographic information, the survey included questions focused on the purpose and frequency of park visits, the types of activities engaged in, and the evaluation of tangible park features. Respondents were asked to rate elements such as periodic maintenance, proximity, lighting, and the availability of facilities (e.g., toilets for both genders, play areas, and seating). Environmental and aesthetic aspects, such as cleanliness, air quality, and landscaping, were also assessed. In addition, the survey explored users’ psychological impressions, including feelings of safety, privacy, and overall comfort within the parks.

Participants were also asked to express their preferences regarding potential programs and activities, such as events or recreational offerings that could foster social inclusion and interaction. In the context of this study, social inclusion refers to the ability of recreational parks to foster equitable access and meaningful participation for all community members, regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic background, or physical ability. It involves creating spaces where individuals feel welcomed, safe, and able to interact without discrimination or exclusion. Socially inclusive parks promote shared experiences, community bonding, and engagement among diverse user groups, contributing to broader goals of urban resilience and social sustainability. This aligns with the objectives of sustainability by emphasizing the role of public spaces in promoting inclusive urban environments. Therefore, by capturing these multifaceted perspectives, the survey provides a comprehensive understanding of both the functional and experiential qualities of parks, as perceived by residents. A sample of the questionnaire is included in Supplementary Materials, and a summary of the survey structure is presented in Figure 16.

The physical factors were measured using a Likert scale, and a one-way ANOVA test yielded a p-value less than 0.05, indicating a statistically significant difference among the physical factors, as shown in

Table 6. Single-factor ANOVA test on physical factors (source: authors).

ANOVA: Single-Factor
Summary
Groups
Groups	Count	Sum	Average	Variance
Providing paths for walking and jogging	214	755	3.528	1.781
Providing safe play areas for children of all age groups	213	748	3.512	1.732
Providing sports facilities, such as football and volleyball courts, and others	216	686	3.176	2.164
Provide shade areas for seating and relaxing	218	694	3.183	2.021
Providing toilets for both genders	224	698	3.116	2.444
Providing snack and beverage kiosks	239	750	3.138	2.313
Providing safety measures, such as a perimeter fence around the recreational park, fire suppression systems, and other safety tools	248	773	3.117	2.249
Periodic maintenance of recreational parks, such as mowing and maintaining green spaces	247	806	3.263	2.065
Adequate lighting during early morning or evening	246	887	3.606	1.668
Designing the seats in a way that encourages social interaction among the residents of the residential neighborhood, such as designing the seats in a circular shape	247	738	2.988	1.866
Provide adequate parking space for visitors	245	840	3.429	1.852
Easy access to all categories of society	247	855	3.462	1.802
Proximity of recreational park to your place of residence	246	885	3.598	1.695
Comprehensive range of activities available for all age groups and diverse backgrounds.	246	806	3.276	1.891
The recreational parks in residential neighborhoods are well connected to other facilities and services, such as shops and public transportation	245	826	3.371	1.775
ANOVA
Source of Variation	SS	df	MS	F	p-value	F crit
Between Groups	129.1	14	9.221	4.723	0.00	1.695
Within Groups	6884	3526	1.952
Total	7013	3540

below.

It was important to summarize the highest and lowest-ranked physical factors that might affect how often people use recreational parks. Consequently, Figure 17 shows the complete analysis of the satisfaction of the participants regarding the physical attributes of the recreational parks in the DMA. The analysis revealed that respondents expressed high satisfaction with amenities like sufficient lighting, pedestrian routes, secure play areas for children, and the proximity of the recreational parks, as illustrated by the red borders in Figure 17. More than 30% of respondents expressed high satisfaction. On the other hand, the analysis revealed that no facilities other than “design of seats for enhancing social inclusion” showed an overall rating of less than 3. Subsequent investigation revealed that respondents exhibited relatively low satisfaction with the facilities, such as toilets for both genders, availability of snacks, and various safety measures within recreational parks.

Accordingly, based on Figure 17,

Table 7. Key physical factors that need to be sustained and need to be improved to convince people to visit neighborhood recreational parks (source: authors).

Highest Ranked Physical Factors	Lowest Ranked Physical Factors
1. Adequate lighting during early morningor evening	1. Designing the seats in a way that encourages social interaction
2. Proximity of recreational parkto your place of residence	2. Providing safety measures
3. Providing paths for walking and jogging	3. Providing toilets for both genders

highlights the key physical factors that need to be maintained and those that require improvement to encourage more frequent park visits. Additionally, this table supports the identification of essential elements for the development of the proposed framework.

Social sustainability characteristics were also measured on a Likert scale, with a significant result. Many participants (about 32%) had neutral opinions about their overall experience with neighborhood parks, suggesting they may be more open to persuasion. Moreover, the analysis showed that most people visit parks for exercise, family outings, and relaxation in nature. It recommends focusing on amenities that support these activities. To boost park visits, it isimportant to improve certain key aspects. Therefore, this study also identified key physical factors that need to be maintained or improved to encourage and improve park visits.Many respondents were dissatisfied with toilet facilities for different genders and the availability of snacks, as well as safety measures, suggesting that enhancements in these areas could attract more visitors. Additionally, over 68% of people were unhappy with the environmental design, indicating that improvements in noise levels, climatic response design, aesthetics, and cleanliness could enhance overall user experience. In addition, the analysis showed that more people were satisfied (44%) with the recreational parks than those who were dissatisfied (24%). Thus, it shows that, overall, people are happy with the current conditions of the recreational parks. However, they still prefer other places (53%) to meet with friends than recreational parks (47%). Although the difference is currently small, various factors could be contributing to it. For example, a significant percentage of respondents (68%) expressed dissatisfaction with the climate and environmental conditions of the parks. Similarly, the overall perception of the parks can also be assessed by the fact that the majority of people (50%) either never use the parks (20%) or visit just once or twice a year (30%). Overall, according to the analysis, a significant number of respondents (32%) did not have a positive or negative opinion of the overall experience of recreational parks in their neighborhood. A psychological perspective can be utilized to explain the fact that individuals with a neutral stance, as opposed to dissatisfied individuals, tend to be more receptive to persuasion in general. This is because neutral individuals are less likely to have preconceived biases or strong emotional reactions that can hinder openness to new information. As a result, they are more likely to consider different viewpoints and be influenced by persuasive arguments. Figure 18 illustrates the primary characteristics discovered that may influence access to recreational parks and, therefore, the regular use and social interaction in the DMA.

The end user questionnaire survey reveals that recreational parks in the DMA are visited for three main reasons: exercising, walking, and jogging;family outings;and nature relaxation. Consequently, more focus should be placed on facilities related to these factors where individuals’ perceptions are significantly influencing their accessibility to recreational parks. Based on the analysis of end-user satisfaction, perceptions, and preferences regarding recreational parks, the study suggestsseveralkey recommendations.These include providing paths for walking and jogging, safe play areas for children, toilets for both genders, snack and beverage options, shaded areas for seating and relaxation, and giving more attention to cleanliness and the aesthetic appeal of the recreational parks. In addition, providing some social activities and events, such as entertainment and sports activities, is recommended. Lastly, it is important to clearly showcase the available activities and options to neighborhood residents.

5. Discussion

The findings of this study provide important insights into how social interaction in neighborhood recreational parks is shaped by both physical and psychological accessibility, contributing meaningfully to the understanding of social sustainability, user-centered urban design, and context-specific planning in Saudi Arabia.

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Social Sustainability and Neighborhood Cohesion

This research reinforces the idea that social sustainability is grounded in everyday interactions and a sense of belonging among community members. The study found that SSC, such as safety, privacy, and sense of community, significantly shape the level of social interaction among residents. These findings are consistent with previous work by Alnaim et al. [14] and Almansor [81], which also identified SSC as a key factor in fostering inclusive and socially cohesive urban environments. This supports prior literature by Colantonio [16] and Bacon et al. [26], who emphasized that socially sustainable neighborhoods must integrate both physical and social dimensions to ensure long-term livability.

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Cultural and Gendered Dimensions of Park Use

The results reveal that demographic characteristics of neighborhood residents (DCNR)—including age, gender, marital status, and job status—significantly influence social interaction in recreational parks. These findings support previous research by Kara [5], Farshidi [7], Alnaim et al. [14], and Almansor [81], emphasizing the need for inclusive park design that addresses the diverse needs of different user groups. For example, younger, non-employed, or single residents showed greater dependence on recreational parks for social interaction, while women often prioritized privacy and safety. Recognizing and responding to such demographic patterns is essential for fostering social inclusion and equitable access in public space design.

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Physical Characteristics and Space Utilization

The study also underscores the importance of PCRP in facilitating social interaction. Factors such as regular maintenance, green spaces, jogging paths, seating, and safety features were identified as enablers of positive user experiences. These findings align with the work of Kara [5], Farshidi [7], Almansor [81], and Sammakieh and Mohammed [82], who similarly emphasized the critical role of well-maintained, accessible, and visually appealing environments in encouraging social use of public parks. Therefore, both the end-user and observational mapping surveys indicate common attributes among recreational park users, as illustrated in a shared attributes framework development presented in Figure 19.

Hence, the present study developed a framework that responds to the call for context-sensitive planning in Saudi Arabia, demonstrating how urban parks can be optimized to reflect cultural norms, demographic needs, and psychological preferences (Figure 20). By integrating observational data with end-user perceptions, the study presents a comprehensive, evidence-based model that enhances both physical and psychological accessibility. This model not only supports increased park usage but also promotes broader social sustainability within the DMA. This study also highlights the central role of perceived accessibility in promoting the use of recreational parks and enhancing social interaction in residential neighborhoods. While physical accessibility ensures spatial reachability, it is the subjective experience—including feelings of safety, comfort, and inclusiveness—that largely determines whether individuals choose to visit and engage in park-based social activity.

The developed framework emphasizes that improving access to recreational parks in the DMA requires a balanced integration of physical design, demographic considerations, and social factors. The end-user survey revealed that the majority of participants were Saudi citizens (~72%), mostly non-employed (~73%), and largely within the 18–24-year age group (~46%). Consequently, the framework places particular emphasis on addressing psychological accessibility for young and non-employed residents, who are more likely to experience social disengagement. Simultaneously, the framework identifies a research opportunity to explore the perceptions and needs of other demographic groups, including non-Saudis and older age cohorts, to ensure broader inclusivity. Three primary barriers to psychological access were identified through user perceptions: inadequate safety, insufficient seating, and a lack of gender-sensitive toilet facilities. These deficiencies negatively affect user perceptions and discourage park visitation. The findings align with earlier research (e.g., Baran et al. [58]), which underscores the importance of perceived safety and environmental quality in encouraging recreational use. The framework illustrates how addressing these physical shortcomings—through targeted improvements and continuous maintenance—can directly influence residents’ psychological comfort and increase their likelihood of using parks for social interaction.

Interestingly, the study found that many respondents expressed a neutral stance toward factors such as feelings of safety and community engagement. While this neutrality may initially suggest a lack of strong emotional connection to park spaces, it also indicates openness to positive change. Individuals who are neither highly satisfied nor dissatisfied are often more receptive to persuasion through improved design, programming, and outreach. This represents an opportunity to reduce psychological barriers and shift neutral users toward more active park participation. The framework further demonstrates that low-quality physical environments contribute to negative environmental perceptions, which in turn create psychological barriers and reduce park usage. This supports the need for strategic investment in both infrastructure and perception-enhancing design. For instance, adding safe pathways, shaded seating, and regular maintenance can improve the overall atmosphere, making parks more inviting and socially vibrant.

Planning and Policy Implications

To foster socially inclusive public spaces, planners must integrate physical upgrades with perceptual and psychological strategies. This includes not only improving safety, seating, and amenities, but also designing for diverse cultural, gender, and age-related preferences. Planning policies should support community involvement in park development and maintenance, and ensure that parks are designed with both accessibility and emotional comfort in mind. Urban planning frameworks should also promote the regular evaluation of user satisfaction and psychological engagement, allowing park management to adjust features and programming based on changing needs. By addressing both the tangible and intangible aspects of accessibility, policymakers can create parks that serve as active hubs for social connection, emotional well-being, and long-term urban sustainability.

6. Conclusions

An in-depth review of the existing literature reveals that enhancing urban park use requires attention not only to physical accessibility but also to perceptual (psychological) aspects. Based on observational behavioral mapping, this study identified five key factors that influence access to recreational parks in residential neighborhoods within the DMA: periodic maintenance, proximity, physical attributes, environmental features, and park location. Additionally, findings from the end-user questionnaire provide insights into how residents perceive park accessibility and its influence on social interaction. The developed framework addresses both physical and psychological dimensions of access, integrating demographic characteristics, park design features, and social sustainability considerations. Its core aim is to increase park usage and strengthen community interaction through user-oriented planning.

While parks remain central to the study, the analysis indicates that park visitation is not a dominant activity for all residents. This underscores the need to consider alternative venues for social interaction, especially in areas where private playgrounds or courtyards may limit broader engagement. Communal settings such as cafes, malls, libraries, mosques, and community centers often serve as important spaces for social interaction and should be included in future urban planning discussions. These spaces provide complementary functions that extend beyond the role of parks in fostering social cohesion.

Although theinitial findings indicated a generally neutral perception of park experiences among respondents, this neutrality is itself telling. It suggests a lack of strong emotional connection to these spaces and highlights potential deficiencies in perceived safety, inclusivity, or opportunities for meaningful engagement. In this context, social sustainability is not only about equitable access, but also about how public spaces actively support social interaction, community bonding, and a sense of belonging. To address this, parks must go beyond physical upgrades and include thoughtful programming, inclusive design, and amenities that cater to diverse user needs, ultimately contributing to long-term community well-being and urban resilience.

Therefore, the proposed framework serves as a practical guide for inclusive and responsive public space planning in the DMA, recognizing that improving infrastructure alone is insufficient. To effectively enhance park access and community engagement, urban planners must also address psychological and social barriers that influence how spaces are perceived and used. While the study provides important insights, it is not without limitations. The research was limited to the DMA, and findings may not fully represent conditions in other Saudi cities or regions. In addition, the sample size, although adequate for qualitative insights, may not capture the full diversity of perspectives, particularly across different age groups, genders, and cultural backgrounds. Seasonal and temporal factors, such as extreme summer temperatures, may have also influenced both park usage patterns and observational data but were not explored in depth. Therefore, based on the findings and proposed framework, the following key recommendations are offered:

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User-Centered Park Design: Future research should explore how different demographic groups interact with parks and consider targeted design solutions that increase usability and relevance for specific user segments.

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Social and Psychological Barriers: Psychological factors, such as perceived safety and privacy concerns, merit further investigation. Mitigating these barriers through thoughtful design can enhance user experience.

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Long-Term Sustainability: Research should assess the long-term social impacts of park improvements, particularly regarding how upgraded facilities contribute to sustained neighborhood cohesion.

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Diverse Age Groups and Cultural Sensitivity: Future studies should examine the preferences and needs of non-Saudi residents and various age groups to ensure that parks serve a culturally diverse population.

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Urban Planning and Policy: Investigating the role of urban planning in promoting equitable access is essential. Policymakers should integrate these insights into strategic development plans that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility.

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Assessment of Park Area per Capita: Future research should assess the average park area per capita to evaluate the adequacy of recreational space relative to population density. This can support more equitable park distribution and inform planning that aligns with global sustainability standards.

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Psychological Appeal and Emotional Well-being: Future research should examine how elements such as natural features, shaded areas, colors, and quiet zones contribute to users’ psychological comfort in parks. Additionally, the role of cultural and recreational events in enhancing emotional well-being and social engagement warrants further investigation.