Purpose: This study examines how public perception of urban settings, natural ecology, and green areas affects Eastern Saudi Arabian quality of life. It seeks to explain these links and how perceptions of green space affect them. Method: The cross-sectional survey included 331 random Dammam, Khafji, and Alhasa residents. Data were collected using validated scales from past research in structured questionnaires. ADANCO software was used for Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to examine construct direct and moderating effects. Findings: The results show that public perception of urban settings, natural ecology, and green areas greatly affects life satisfaction. Green space perceptions successfully moderated these connections, enhancing the favourable effects of urban and ecological factors on quality of life. Study shows significant direct and moderated impacts, validating cognitive and perceptual dimensions’ importance in urban quality of life. Originality/Implications: This research integrates cognitive evaluations with perceptual criteria to comprehend urban quality of life theoretically. It advises urban planners and legislators on how to build and maintain green spaces to improve citizens’ well-being. The findings support future study on moderating variables and longitudinal effects.
rita_ is a paper and digital journal that publishes original works not previously published in other journals, books or conference proceedings.