File photo of Al Bidda Park in Doha used for representation
Doha, Qatar: The Public Parks Department at the Ministry of Municipality is pushing forward with a comprehensive plan to expand and enhance the nation’s green spaces, guided by principles of sustainability, functionality, and community benefit.
Director of the Public Parks Department Mohammed Al-Sada, said the ministry adopts a strategic and data-driven approach in selecting locations for parks and green areas to ensure they meet the real needs of residents.
“The choice of location depends on several factors such as population density, urban planning priorities, and the future design of streets and neighborhoods,” said Al-Sada. Speaking to Qatar TV recently he said: “We study what each area requires—whether it’s a park, a walkway, or another type of public space—to ensure residents can truly benefit from it. Our goal is not just beautification, but creating spaces that serve people and improve their quality of life.”
According to Al-Sada, Qatar now boasts 146 public parks across its cities and neighborhoods, with more projects currently under implementation. The department’s nurseries supply most of the trees, shrubs, and flowers used in these parks, forming what he described as “a complete and sustainable cycle.”
“Almost all the plants and flowers you see in our public parks come from our own nurseries. We supervise the entire process—from cultivation to planting—which ensures quality and reduces dependence on external sources,” he said.
Al-Sada also emphasized that the ministry’s environmental strategy centers on sustainability, highlighting the use of organic fertilizers and efforts to minimize chemical inputs that could harm the environment. “We are working to achieve the highest level of sustainability in plant care while maintaining environmental balance,” he noted.
As part of its ongoing modernization efforts, the department has integrated Green Building concepts into the design and construction of new parks. This includes the use of eco-friendly and recycled materials, as well as durable alternatives to traditional ones that are better suited to Qatar’s climate.
“For example, we have moved away from using untreated wooden benches that are easily affected by heat and humidity,” Al-Sada explained.
“Instead, we use treated or sustainable materials that require less maintenance and have longer lifespans. This approach applies to most of the construction materials we now use in public parks.”
He said locally sourced materials are prioritised wherever possible to support national sustainability goals and reduce environmental impact. Through these initiatives, the Ministry of Municipality continues to advance its vision of creating a greener, healthier urban environment, offering residents modern recreational spaces that combine beauty, functionality, and environmental responsibility. With more parks set to open in the coming years, Qatar’s cities are steadily transforming into greener, more sustainable communities, reflecting the nation’s commitment to improving urban life while preserving its natural environment.
