Wadi Namar

Wadi Namar dam was built to control flood water in the southern part of the Riyadh basin, and the reservoir behind it has been landscaped into a park: a walking and cycling promenade runs along the shore, a stepped spillway forms a broad artificial waterfall when water is released, and lawns, palms and lighting have been added. It is one of the more used public spaces in the city, filling in the evening and at weekends with families walking, cycling and picnicking, and it is free. Boats and pedalos have operated at times. The lake also draws waterbirds, which are otherwise scarce in central Arabia, and it is one of the better birding spots near the capital.

What you actually see

• The spillway waterfall - the stepped wall of water when the dam releases.
• The lake promenade - the walking and cycling path along the shore.
• Waterbirds - the species drawn to open water in the desert.
• Evening crowds - the families using the park after dark.

When to go

November to March; evenings are when the park is busiest and coolest. The waterfall only runs when the dam is releasing, which depends on water levels, so it is often dry. Weekends are crowded.

Honest expectations

The waterfall is intermittent and frequently absent. The lake is a treated water body rather than a natural one and smell can be noticeable. Litter and crowding at weekends are significant. Parking is difficult in the evening.

Nearby

Central Riyadh lies north; Wadi Hanifah runs nearby.