The capital of Saudi Arabia

The Capital of Saudi Arabia

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is a vibrant and modern metropolis with a rich history and culture. Located in the central region of the country, Riyadh is the largest city in Saudi Arabia. The city has undergone significant development in recent years, with modern skyscrapers, shopping malls, and high-end restaurants transforming the skyline. However, despite the modernization, Riyadh has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage, with historic sites and traditional markets (souqs) scattered throughout the city.

Best time to visit

The Arabian Peninsula is a real oven during the summer months, with an average temperature of 40ºC, both by day and by night, so you really should avoid traveling to Riyadh from mid-May to end of September. We started our Saudi adventure in Jeddah on 26.02 and finished in Riyadh on 12.03 after quite an interesting trip by rental car - you can find a post about how we drove 2000 km in Saudi Arabia here. The temperature in late February and early March that we had was 25-30 degrees celcius what was absolutely perfect for us.

Where to stay in Riyadh

There are approximately 9,058,394 (2023) people living in Riyadh and the city covers an area of 1,973 km². It is difficult to say which district of Riyadh is the best place to stay - we had the same problem. In the end we have chosen Al Olaya District. It is Riyadh’s commercial core, characterized by prestigious skyscrapers. Several modern, air-conditioned malls offer luxury international fashion brands, plus kids’ play areas and many restaurants. Low-key shawarma spots and cozy dessert cafes mix with elegant restaurants. We just liked the mix of it all.

How to move around

Taxi: Download the uber app if you still don’t have it. They are way cheaper than regular taxis and are what most young Saudis use. This is also the only way to get to the city from the airport and the price will really depend on where you go.

Walking: Let’s be honest… Saudis are not the walkers. To move around they use cars, because it’s so cheap! Riyadh is one of the least walking-friendly cities we have ever been to I guess. Once we tried to walk from the restaurant to our hotel, basically, because according to the map, it was only 3km away. At some point, the sidewalk just disappeared and suddenly we have been walking on a road right next to the cars.

Metro: Metro in Riyadh is under construction. Saudis are very proud of this investment by the way. We have seen many stops already built, but when we have been there it was still not working, but when it will - I have to visit the city again!

Again, like in Jeddah there are no buses or convenient public transport.

What to see in Riyadh

Al Murabba Palace

2722 الملك سعود، المربع،, Riyadh 12631, Saudi Arabia

Stunning example of traditional Saudi Arabian architecture. The palace was built in the early 20th century as a residence for King Abdulaziz and now serves as a museum that displays the history and culture of the Kingdom.

National Museum of Saudi Arabia

King Saud Rd، 2722 حي 8745, Riyadh 12631, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its numerous museums, art galleries, and traditional markets. One of the most popular cultural attractions in the city is the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, which showcases the history and culture of the country. Visitors can explore exhibits that range from pre-Islamic artifacts to Islamic art and calligraphy.

Day trip to edge of the world

It is a popular tourist destination in Saudi Arabia also known as "Jebel Fihrayn," which is located about 80 kilometers northwest of Riyadh extending the Tuwaik Mountain range. This is a natural geological formation that consists of a plateau that rises to a height of over 1,400 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The name is well deserved with the canyons that plunge 1000 feet into the depths like a vertical wall at the end of a jolting desert tour. The view is breathtaking.

Historical Diriyah

Also known as the ‘Pearl of Saudi Arabia’, the historical Diriyah features Saudi Arabia’s 300+ years of culture, heritage, and history. Additionally, it showcases an amazing series of cultural and sports events, shopping hubs, and immense educational opportunities. Diriyah also houses Al Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site has numerous museums, hotels, and exhibition halls. Tourists from around the globe visit Diriyah to experience the historical culture of Saudi Arabia in its true sense.

Visit red sand dunes

19697, Saudi Arabia

Due to the fact that we extended our stay in the amazing Al Ula we ran out of time to visit the Desert area red sand dunes, but it stood on our list it to very high and we will definitely go there on our next visit.

Kingdom Center

King Abdullah Rd, King Fahd, Riyadh 12271, Saudi Arabia

A 99-storey skyscraper that is the third tallest building in Saudi Arabia. The building is home to a luxury shopping mall, a Four Seasons hotel, and an observation deck that offers stunning views of the city. Ticket for the bridge you can buy at the entrance and the prices you will find over here

Riyadh is also known for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. One of the most popular dishes is Kabsa, a flavorful rice dish that is typically served with chicken or lamb. Other popular dishes include Mandi, a dish made with spiced meat and rice, and Shawarma, a Middle Eastern wrap made with grilled meat and vegetables.

Places where we have been and we can recommend:

-Cofleur visit website

-Brekkie all day brunch & cafe visit website

-A.O.K. Kitchen visit website

-Najd Village (amazing, traditional arabic place) visit website

-EL&N visit website