The Effect of Different Built Environments on Walking Behavior Among Women in Riyadh

Abstract

This paper aims to comprehensively examine how the characteristics and perceptions of various built environments influence the walking experiences of women in open public spaces within Riyadh. The study identifies various urban walking settings and investigates the multifaceted barriers and motivations that impact women’s walking behavior in these environments. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research integrates observational analyses conducted across four walking sites and semi-structured interviews with participants to gather rich qualitative data. The findings suggest that specific attributes influencing women’s walking experiences are closely related to the built environment, including factors such as ease of accessibility and the existence of essential amenities. Furthermore, the research highlights that those social and cultural factors, such as the presence of other women in these public spaces, significantly affect women’s willingness to engage in walking activities. Overall, the results highlight the considerable progress still needed to establish a pedestrian environment that is both comfortable and inclusive, ultimately contributing to the humanization of urban spaces in Riyadh. The study adds to the existing body of knowledge on urban walking behavior among women and emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments that encourage active participation in public spaces.