RIYADH: Tabuk is undergoing something of a facelift, thanks to the city municipality’s efforts to enhance the urban landscape through a number of revitalizing initiatives. Among the efforts made so far are the planting of some 2.1 million seasonal flowers and 14,500 shade-providing trees, which now grace Tabuk’s parks and main thoroughfares. Abdulmajid Al-Sarrah, deputy secretary for projects, stressed that the municipality’s commitment extended beyond planting. The work has also involved the irrigation and maintenance of 3 million sq. meters of green areas and the pruning of 9,870 palm trees. The large-scale initiative is part of Tabuk’s broader strategy to “humanize” the city — a concept that prioritizes creating livable, green spaces within urban environments. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the quality of life for both citizens and residents, as well as visitors. Meanwhile, the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has continued to carry out its coastal project, planting 13 million mangrove seedlings. This is taking place in various regions — Jazan, Makkah, Madinah, Tabuk, Asir and Eastern Province. The scheme aligns with the goals of the Saudi Green Initiative. The center, in cooperation with its partners, aims to plant 100 million mangrove trees along the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coasts in the coming years. Currently, it is working to increase green cover and reduce desertification in the coastal areas by planting a million mangrove trees across various locations.