Corporate social responsibility and quality of life in Saudi cities: an empirical study of the green Riyadh program

Abstract This study examines the mediating role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in enhancing quality of life in Saudi cities, as exemplified by the Green Riyadh Program. Rapid urbanization and environmental challenges pose significant threats to urban quality of life. This research investigates how CSR-driven actions contribute to environmental sustainability and resident well-being. Quantitative survey methods were employed to gather perspectives from residents, policymakers, and corporate stakeholders, and the data were analyzed using structural equation modeling in AMOS and SPSS. Findings indicate that CSR-supported green projects are perceived as significantly improving the quality of life and increasing recreational spaces, directly benefiting residents’ physical and mental health. Additionally, corporate engagement enhances community involvement, resident perceptions, social cohesion, and technological innovation, thereby advancing sustainable city development through CSR. The study concludes that integrating CSR into green urban initiatives, such as the Green Riyadh Program, is considered essential to advancing sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life in Saudi Arabia. Policy recommendations include implementing incentives to encourage private-sector participation, fostering broader public engagement, and establishing comprehensive monitoring systems to assess long-term benefit. Overall, the research positions CSR as a strategic mechanism for achieving Saudi Arabia’s vision of healthier and more livable urban environments.