Assessing Walkability on Arterial Commercial Streets in Riyadh Using the Global Walkability Index (GWI): A Case Study of Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia) and Olaya Street

Abstract

This study addresses a local research gap in Saudi Arabia, where most “humanization” initiatives and scholarship emphasize residential neighborhoods rather than arterial commercial streets. It evaluates walkability along two major Riyadh corridors—Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia) and Olaya Street—both of which serve as movement corridors and destinations. A structured questionnaire derived from walkability and complete-streets literature was translated into ten indicators (Q1–Q10) plus an expected economic-impact indicator (ECON), supported by demographic/behavioral variables and open-ended questions. A total of 160 responses were collected (80 per corridor). The statistical analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics, including descriptive statistics, between-group comparisons using the Mann–Whitney U test, categorical distribution assessment via the Chi-square test, and correlation analysis using Spearman’s rank correlation. The results indicate that Tahlia performs significantly better in traffic safety, sidewalk quality, crossing ease, and overall walkability. No significant differences were found for shade/thermal comfort or cycling/scooter suitability, indicating shared structural constraints. Correlation analysis identifies shade/thermal comfort, micromobility suitability, and public-transport integration as the strongest predictors of overall walkability. The study concludes with measurable recommendations: treat shade as a performance requirement, enforce a functional sidewalk cross-section, implement pedestrian-priority intersection packages, introduce phased micromobility measures, strengthen transit access spines, and apply node-based interventions for Olaya versus a destination-street approach for Tahlia.