Things To Do
in Riyadh
Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is a sprawling metropolis that combines modern architecture with ancient traditions, serving as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the nation. The city is renowned for its fascinating mix of skyscrapers, such as the iconic Kingdom Centre, and historical sites, including the Masmak Fortress, which tells the story of Saudi Arabia's unification.
Amidst its arid desert environment, Riyadh showcases vibrant markets, lush parks, and a rapidly growing arts scene, reflecting the country's ambitious efforts towards modernization and cultural expansion.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Saudi Arabia. Explore the rich history and culture of the region through interactive exhibits.
Head over to the King Abdulaziz Historical Center to delve deeper into Riyadh's past. Enjoy the beautifully restored buildings and peaceful gardens.
Conclude your day with a stroll around Al Murabba Palace. The beauty of the structure is enhanced by evening lights, making for a peaceful experience.
Visit the historic Al Masmak Fortress to learn about Riyadh's founding. The mud-brick fort is a stunning representation of traditional Saudi architecture.
Enjoy a traditional lunch in the Souq Al Thumairi, where you can taste local dishes. Take some time to shop for spices and handicrafts.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at King Fahd Park. The park features beautiful fountains and walking trails, perfect for an evening leisure walk.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
- Economic hub with various job opportunities
- Modern infrastructure and development
- Diverse expatriate community
- Strategic location for business and travel
- Extreme climate with high temperatures
- Limited entertainment and leisure activities
- Strict cultural norms and regulations
- Traffic congestion in urban areas
- Language barriers for non-Arabic speakers
Best Activities in Riyadh
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful valley and enjoy hiking and picnicking along the trails.
Visit the historic area and engage in outdoor activities such as horseback riding and exploring the old fort.
Enjoy an outdoor amusement park with various rides and activities for families and friends.
Tours
Uncover the best of Riyadh with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Riyadh
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Riyadh, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
A skyscraper with a viewing deck that provides stunning 360-degree views of Riyadh.
A beautiful valley and natural park with picturesque landscapes, perfect for photography.
An amusement park with a Ferris wheel providing a bird's-eye view of Riyadh and great photo opportunities.
Food in Riyadh
Riyadh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Kabsa is a spiced rice dish typically featuring meat such as chicken, lamb, or goat, and is often garnished with almonds and raisins. Must-try places include Najd Village and Al Khodariya for a truly authentic experience.
Must-Try!
Mandi is a delicious traditional dish of seasoned rice and tender meat, such as lamb or chicken, cooked in a tandoor. Drop by Al Orman Park for a delectable Mandi feast.
Mutabbaq is a stuffed, folded pastry filled with ingredients like minced meat, vegetables, and sometimes eggs. Savor this delightful snack at local shops and bakeries like Al-Aqeeq Bakery.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Riyadh better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an array of street food options, from shawarma and falafel to grilled kebabs and fresh juices. Explore the streets to indulge in authentic Arabian street food delights.
Deera Souk is a must-visit for food enthusiasts, with vibrant stalls offering a wide variety of traditional snacks and sweets, including kunafa, samboosa, and date-filled pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Riyadh, it is important to dress modestly, with women covering their bodies and wearing an abaya, while men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless shirts in public areas.
Respect for Islam is crucial, and visitors should refrain from any behavior that might be deemed disrespectful, such as public displays of affection, eating or drinking in public during Ramadan, and entering mosques without permission.
It is customary to respect the gender segregation norms, with separate areas for men and women in public places. Interaction with the opposite gender should be respectful and follow the local customs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Riyadh with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Riyadh
Ensure a smooth experience
In Riyadh, tipping is not mandatory but is often appreciated. It is customary to give a 10-15% tip at restaurants and cafes if a service charge is not included in the bill.
Cash is commonly used for transactions in Riyadh, but credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's important to note that some smaller shops and vendors may only accept cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Riyadh.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Riyadh is characterized by pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. It is a great time to visit as the city comes alive with colorful blooms and outdoor activities.
Autumn brings mild temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C, making it another excellent time to visit Riyadh. It is a time of cultural events and festivals, offering visitors a chance to experience the local traditions and cuisine.
Winter can be quite cool in Riyadh, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C. It is a festive season, with an array of events and celebrations, including the Riyadh Season festival, which features entertainment, cultural activities, and a variety of cuisine.
Summer in Riyadh is extremely hot, with temperatures soaring well above 40°C. It is not the best time to visit as outdoor activities are limited due to the intense heat. However, indoor attractions and shopping malls offer respite from the heat.
Riyadh at Night
Hiking in Riyadh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic valley located on the outskirts of Riyadh, known for its beautiful waterfalls and serene environment. It's a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
A large public park that offers various hiking trails, lush green spaces, and stunning views of the city.
This dramatic escarpment features several hiking routes that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape and the city of Riyadh.
Located to the southwest of Riyadh, this area offers several trails suitable for hiking, with scenic views and diverse flora and fauna.
While not a traditional hiking spot, the area around this historic site offers opportunities for light hiking and exploring the city's rich history and culture.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Riyadh through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Riyadh by plane.
The main international airport serving Riyadh, located about 35 kilometers north of the city center.
Located in Jeddah, approximately 950 kilometers west of Riyadh. It's one of the busiest airports in Saudi Arabia and serves as a major gateway for pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
Located in Dammam, about 400 kilometers east of Riyadh. It is the largest airport in the world by area and serves the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
Located in Medina, around 850 kilometers northwest of Riyadh. This airport primarily serves travelers visiting the religious sites in Medina.
Situated in Abha, about 900 kilometers southwest of Riyadh. It serves both domestic and limited international flights and is a regional hub for the Asir region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, including various tribes and regional backgrounds within Saudi Arabia.
A significant population of foreign workers from various countries, including but not limited to India, Pakistan, Egypt, and the Philippines.
A traditional group that has historically inhabited desert regions, often with distinct cultural practices.
Women from various backgrounds representing both local and expatriate communities, playing an increasingly active role in society.
A growing demographic of young individuals, especially students and young professionals, contributing to the city’s future.
The Soul of Riyadh
Discover the essence of Riyadh through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Riyadh, with a passionate fan base and numerous clubs, including Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal.
Basketball has gained popularity in recent years, with local leagues and clubs promoting the sport among youth.
Cricket enjoys a following in Riyadh, with expatriate communities organizing matches and local leagues.
Equestrian events and horse riding are popular, reflecting the country's rich tradition in horsemanship.
Running events such as marathons and fun runs are commonly held, promoting fitness and community participation.
Weightlifting and bodybuilding have a strong following, with gyms and competitions throughout the city.
Motorsports, including car and motorcycle racing, are popular among motorsport enthusiasts, particularly in events like the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Riyadh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Saudi cuisine often centers around meat, many restaurants in Riyadh offer vegetarian and vegan options. Try places like Urth Caffe and The Globe for a variety of plant-based dishes.
Several eateries in Riyadh cater to gluten-free diets, providing menus that indicate suitable dishes. Check out restaurants like The Blue Bakery and GF Pantry for gluten-free delights.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Riyadh with these cultural adventures.
