Things To Do
in Al Quway‘īyah
Al Quway‘īyah is a small desert town in central Saudi Arabia within the Riyadh region, surrounded by date groves and arid plains. It offers a quieter, more traditional glimpse into Saudi life away from the bustle of major cities. The town serves as a gateway to rural markets, mosques, and open skies ideal for stargazing.
Visitors will find warm hospitality, simple pleasures, and opportunities to experience everyday life in the heart of the kingdom.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Al Quway‘īyah and settle into your accommodation. Take a stroll around the local area to acclimate and enjoy the desert landscape. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Saudi dishes.
Visit the Al Quway‘īyah Fort for a glimpse into the historical architecture and culture of the region. Explore the surrounding area and take photographs of the stunning desert scenery. Have lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring the local flavors.
Relax at your accommodation with a cup of traditional Arabic coffee. Join locals at a nearby gathering spot to engage in conversation and learn about their culture. End the day with a star-gazing session under the clear desert sky.
Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where you can shop for traditional crafts and spices. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby eatery, experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals. Take time to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
Explore the nearby heritage village, where you can discover traditional Saudi architecture and local crafts. Participate in a pottery workshop to create your own keepsake. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional Saudi cuisine.
Return to your accommodation for a refreshing break. Join a cultural evening with local storytellers sharing tales of Saudi folklore. Conclude your day with dinner featuring a traditional dish from the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $50-100 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic exposure to rural Saudi life
- Friendly locals and approachable markets
- Stargazing and photography opportunities in clear desert skies
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Distances between sights can be long and require planning
- Facilities and services are basic compared to major cities
- "مرحبا" - Hello
- "شكرا" - Thank you
- "من فضلك" - Please
- "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
- "هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟" - Do you speak English?
- "كم السعر؟" - What is the price?
- "أنا نباتي" - I am vegetarian
- "لا أريد ذلك" - I don’t want that
- "مساعدة" - Help
Places to Visit in Al Quway‘īyah
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over orderly rows of palm trees and irrigation channels; ideal for tranquil landscape shots.
Narrow lanes and traditional architecture provide texture-rich street photography opportunities.
A vantage point to frame the town against the desert backdrop and distant dunes.
Silhouettes of dunes with warm color gradients and dramatic shadows.
Food in Al Quway‘īyah
Al Quway‘īyah Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant spiced rice with chicken or lamb, a signature Saudi dish found in many local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked meat with rice and aromatic smokiness from the cooking method; typically served with a rich sauce.
Slow-roasted lamb with spices, offering rustic, comforting flavors.
Cracked wheat porridge simmered with meat or vegetables, a hearty staple in the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering dates, spices, nuts, breads, and ready-to-eat street bites.
Specialized market focusing on dates of various varieties, often with tasting stations.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; lightweight fabrics are practical in hot weather.
Respect local norms: avoid public displays of affection; greet with the right hand; show modesty in interactions.
Ask for permission before photographing people; avoid photographing government buildings or religious sites without consent.
Be mindful during Ramadan; avoid public eating during daylight hours; respect prayer times in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Al Quway‘īyah
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated in cafes and restaurants; 5-10% is common if service charge is not included. For street vendors, small change is welcomed.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted in towns; contactless payments are increasingly common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days with temperatures often above 40°C (104°F). Plan outdoor activity for early morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Mild daytime temperatures with cooler nights; evenings can be chilly; good for desert stargazing.
Moderate temperatures with occasional dust storms; ideal for markets and outdoor photography.
Warm days and cooler evenings; comfortable for walking and exploring outdoors.
Al Quway‘īyah at Night
Hiking in Al Quway‘īyah
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rugged desert terrain with scenic overlooks; suitable for modest day hikes near the plateau edge.
Seasonal watercourses offering shaded walks and photography opportunities amid palm groves.
Airports
How to reach Al Quway‘īyah by plane.
Primary international gateway to Riyadh; well-connected with regional and international flights.
Regional airport serving Buraydah and surrounding areas; suitable for domestic travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic in the town with a strong sense of community and local customs.
Smaller communities from other countries in service sectors; contributions to local culture vary by workplace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport nationwide, with local leagues and informal games across towns.
Traditional pursuits that reflect regional heritage and are occasionally featured in nearby events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Quway‘īyah.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist: salads, lentil soups, hummus, falafel, and stews; ask for no meat stock and look for dairy-free options; many dishes can be adapted.