Riyadh

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a city that spans centuries. You'll see towering skyscrapers like the Kingdom Centre and historic sites such as the Masmak Fortress. Walk through traditional souks selling carpets and gold, then shop in air-conditioned malls with international brands. Taste local dishes like kabsa in restaurants that recreate Bedouin atmospheres, or dine with a view from a skyscraper. Riyadh invites you to experience its unique character, from its past to its ambitious future plans.

Modern Architecture in Riyadh

Riyadh's skyline showcases the city's rapid development. The Kingdom Centre stands at 302 meters tall, with an inverted arch top. Inside, you'll find offices, a luxury hotel, and a sky bridge offering panoramic city views. The Al-Faisaliah Center is recognizable by its glass globe top. This complex includes office spaces, restaurants, and a viewing platform. Visit the King Abdullah Financial District to see Riyadh's plans for becoming a global financial hub.

Shopping Experiences

You can shop in various settings in Riyadh. At Al-Zal Souk, haggle for carpets, antiques, and traditional Saudi clothing. The gold souk in the old city center has a wide array of jewelry and precious metals. For air-conditioned shopping, visit Riyadh Gallery Mall or Hayat Mall, which have international brands and local retailers.

Savoring Local and International Cuisine

Riyadh's restaurants reflect its Bedouin roots and cosmopolitan present. Try kabsa (spiced rice with meat) at Najd Village, which recreates a traditional Arabian dining setting. For an upscale experience, eat at The Globe restaurant at the top of Al-Faisaliah Tower, which serves international cuisine with city views. Try Saudi coffee, often served with dates, as part of the local hospitality.

Parks and Green Spaces

Riyadh has several parks and green areas. King Abdullah Park has walking paths, playgrounds, and a fountain. Salam Park offers a lake, boat rides, and picnic areas. On the outskirts of Riyadh, Wadi Hanifah is a revitalized valley with walking and cycling trails along green banks.

Exploring Riyadh's History

The Masmak Fortress, a clay and mud-brick fort built in the 19th century, played a key role in forming the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. You can see exhibits on Saudi history and examine its traditional architecture. Outside Riyadh, visit Diriyah, the first capital of the Saudi dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage site is being restored to show 18th-century Arabian urban life.

Museums and Galleries

Learn about Saudi culture and history at the National Museum of Saudi Arabia. Its eight galleries cover topics from the geological formation of the Arabian Peninsula to the modern Kingdom. See works by Saudi and international artists at Mono Gallery and Naila Art Gallery. The King Abdulaziz Historical Center houses several museums and cultural institutions.

Getting Around Riyadh

Riyadh is developing a metro system, set to be one of the world's largest when completed. Currently, taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient ways to move around the city. If you plan to explore beyond Riyadh, consider renting a car, but be aware of the city's busy traffic.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Riyadh has extremely hot summers and mild winters. Visit between November and February for more comfortable temperatures. Sandstorms can occur in spring and early summer. During Ramadan, many businesses close or have reduced hours, but you can experience local culture and traditions during this time.

Riyadh's Future Plans

Riyadh will host Expo 2030, which will highlight Saudi culture, innovation, and vision. Other projects include the King Salman Park, planned to be the world's largest urban park, and Qiddiya, an entertainment project with theme parks, sports facilities, and cultural venues. These developments aim to add new attractions and experiences to Riyadh in the coming years.