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Riyadh

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About Riyadh
The city of Riyadh, which is the capital of Saudi Arabia, can be found in the heart of the Arabian Desert, where it’s surrounded by rocky mountains and a vast expanse of barren deserts. Riyadh is the only modern city in Saudi Arabia. This city is one of those places that will never cease to inspire you with beauty and admiration for its culture. It is an important center for oil production, refining and petrochemical industries, but it also contains many wonderful green spaces, expansive parks, and beautiful gardens.

The Al Balad District is probably the most renowned part of Riyad district and is also home to some of the most popular malls in Riyadh. One of the popular landmarks in the district is Faisaliah Tower also known as "The Clock Tower'' because it used to have an art deco clock on top of it. You can visit Al Razzadamat or the Morisco district. Drummers playing in buildings that have been converted into stores is "a one-of-a-kind sight", according to locals in Riyadh. You can take a trip to visit Mecca and Medina and even ride camels in the desert. 

The country features two distinct climate zones. In the eastern part of Saudi Arabia bordering Jordan and Iraq, summers are hot with temperatures reaching upwards of 40°C (104°F) whereas winters are mild.

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Riyadh FAQ's

Which are the best places to visit in Riyadh?

1. Masmak Fortress- Begin your enthralling tour of Riyadh by paying a visit to this grandiose and gigantic fortress called Masmak fortress perched in the middle of Riyadh. With an intriguing history dating back to ancient times, this amusing fortress played a very significant role in Saudi Arabia’s unification.

Admire the intricate architecture of this flamboyant tourist attraction, walk through its resplendent corridors, explore the luxuriant apartment and quarters and uncover the history behind essential artifacts on display in the fort’s museum. Upon entering, tourists will pass through a massive gate of 12ft leading to an immense courtyard studded with complacent seating areas.
  • Location- Qasr al-Masmak, Al Imam Turki ibn Abdullah ibn Muhammad, Dirah, Riyadh 12652

2. Edge of the world Riyadh- Popular amongst thrill-seekers, the Edge of the world is a massive barren desert land studded with humongous and enthralling brows cliffs and elevations which are famous spots for hiking expeditions.

Adventure lovers gather here annually for a blood-pumping quad-biking or hiking expedition to the top of the cliff. Atop, tourists can enjoy a splendid 360 panorama of the entire barren land adorned with the bright Arabic sky. This attraction is home to rare and extrinsic flowers and animals worth admiring. Challenge yourself for a thrilling expedition and admire the geological marvel of Riyadh.
  • Location- Dammam Branch Rd, CROSS, SAHABA ROAD, Riyadh 13246, Saudi Arabia

3. Royal palace in Riyadh- If opulent and luxurious palaces, architecture and archaeological marvels, and royal antiquity excite you, then visiting this enticing tourist attraction is a must. The royal palace in Riyadh is also commonly known as the Murraba palace and was the official residence of the Royal up until 1932.

Spread over an area of 9800 meters, this exquisite attention has splendid marble architecture, opulent royal apartments, museums, courtyard, and administrative chambers which will help you get a peek into the complacent lifestyle of Saudi’s imperial family.  So pack your cameras and get ready to click amazing pictures of the aristocratic ambiance.
  • Location- Riyadh 12631, Saudi Arabia

4. Riyadh Zoo- Riyadh Zoo is one of the most enticing locations for a relaxing family escapade surrounded by verdant landscape and wilderness and exquisite animals. Admire a myriad of these rare species of 1500 animals of which 22 are endangered breeds. The Riyadh zoo is a massive desert zoo covering a humongous area of 55 acres.

If you have kids with you on the vacation then spending a day at this resplendent attraction is a must. The zoo houses penguins from the polar countries, flamingos and other rare aviary creatures, safari rides, close-up interaction with primates, seal shows, and animal feeding programs as well, that will keep you engaged for an eternity.
  • Location- Mosab Ibn Umair St, Hasa, Riyadh Saudi Arabia

5. King Abdulaziz Historical Centre- This magnificent historical center is a stretch of the popular Murraba palace and is a definite addition to your travel itinerary. King Abdulaziz Historical Centre is located in the vicinity of the Murraba palace and is a public museum with intriguing artifacts on display.

Upon entering, tourists will come across the first themed display of artifacts called “Man and the universe”, with enticing artifacts like mastodon skeleton, meteorite, etc. Not only this, art lovers can relish the beauty of the splendid Egyptian and Arabian architecture of this massive location and click amazing pictures.
  • Location- Historical Center King Abdul Aziz Al Murabba, Riyadh 12631, Saudi Arabia


6. Al Faisaliah Centre- Riyadh, the capital of skyscrapers and massive and tall structures, houses the world's 325th tallest buildings, the humongous Al Faisaliah Centre. This colossal tower has over 30 massive floors and stands at a height of 267 meters.

Tourists can enjoy a 360-degree panorama of Riyadh whilst enjoying a fine dinner at the opulent restaurants on the top floors. Not only this, tourists can relish upon the amiable hospitality of four-season hotels, running in this tower. This center is a grandiose office and also houses a myriad of opulent apartments, best-reviewed restaurants, and malls as well as shopping complexes.

  • Location- Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

7. World Sights Park- Ever wondered what the world’s most enthralling and top-notch heritage sites, towers, and attractions look like on a miniature scale? World Sight Park is such unique expeditions that will teleport you into a chapter of Gulliver's travels.

Tourists can find miniature replicas of the Eiffel tower, taj mahal, and other resplendent structures from around the world. This impressive attraction is also a hustling iconic spot because it features a plethora of lush gardens and parks, cool shades, and gym areas, promising a relaxing afternoon in your vacation itinerary.
  • Location- 4298 Nasir Ar Rajihi, Al Mughrizat, 7164 Riyadh 12482, Saudi Arabia

8. King Abdullah Park- Take a break from your frenzy travel itinerary and hop on for an amusing picking activity at this incredible park. King Abdullah is a massive public park and houses verdant and well-maintained gardens with tree shades for picnic areas, long stretches of wide pavements, ponds, and fountains.

This park is a top-notch location for bird-watching activities as well. At night, tourists and locals gather for a sky-gazing activity and to rely upon the serenity of this Arabian attraction. Apart from this, tourists can also find quad biking, skating, cycling, open gym, and hiking activities here as well.
  • Location- Al Ameen Abdullah Al Ali Al Naeem St, Al Malaz, Riyadh 12836, Saudi Arabia

9. Al Khaimah Theme Park- A massive theme park with a chill laid back ambiance, a myriad of fun and amusing rides, Ferris wheels, and roller coaster expedition will disappoint no travel freak ever. Al Khaimah theme park is a definite addition to your travel itinerary.

Delve into an excursion of magnificent rides and click pictures with cartoon characters as well. Tourists can also dine at the food court and restaurants inside the theme park. A day at this enthralling attraction will make you come back for more. Shop for antiques and souvenirs at the toy shop located at the exit.
  • Location- Al Wurud, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia

10. Olaya Park- Riyadh is studded with panoramic and picturesque parks and gardens and topping the list of well-crafted and wonderful attractions is the Olaya Park. This whimsical park houses fountains and tourism ponds hosting the intriguing light show during the evening.

Tourists can also find a children's play area, well-maintained open gym with flamboyant equipment, comfortable seating areas, picnic zones, and food court as well. Kids can also indulge in skateboarding and cycling expeditions at this humongous park.
  • Location- Al Olaya, Riyadh 12311, Saudi Arabia

Which are the famous things to do in Riyadh?

1. Explore Heet Cave - Amongst the hidden gems of Saudi Arabia lies this resplendent tourist attraction which is a massive cave with unique and impressive stalagmite and limestone formation. Tourists can also find underground water reserves where a myriad of boating activities are held.

Spread over an area of 40 kilometers and with a colossal depth of 300 meters, this impeccable cave system is a thrilling expedition and is a must-visit when in Riyadh. Tourists will walk into the caves whilst passing through an excellent eye-shaped entrance made up of limestone and other splendid rock formations.
  • Location - Hyt, Riyadh 14369, Saudi Arabia

2. Offer to pray at King Khalid Grand Mosque - Spend a fine evening offering praying at this grandiose mosque which is a splendid tourist attraction in Riyadh. Adorned with enthralling Egyptian, byzantine, and mosaic architectures and artistry, the interior of this mosque is one of the finest structures to admire around the world.

Tourists can also find a massive dome construction with stained glass ornate decorations and detailing. This opulent mosque is also known as the beacon of Riyadh and attracts a massive crowd usually during Ramadan and evening prayers. Delve into the tranquil ambiance and learn about the Quran writings on the walls of this religious site.
  • Location - Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia

3. Discover the beauty of Diriyah - Diriyah is the next best tourist attraction which is currently under construction and refurbishments for conversion into an excellent mega project. Diriyah is a splendid UNESCO world heritage site that has cobbled pathways, massive water resources with a touch of traditional ambiance which can be seen in the mud houses and village settlements in this area.

Tourists can also admire the calligraphy, earthen pots and crafts, handmade arts, and paintings available for sale at the local shops. As an extension of At Turaif quarter, tourists will also pass through the Murraba palace museum with ancient artifacts on display.
  • Location - Ar Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

4. Hiking at Wadi Hanifah, Riyadh - Nothing can beat the serene tranquillity and peace of this panoramic landscape which is a top-notch attraction for a hiking rendition. At Wadi Hanifah, tourists can find long stretches of dense forests, thick wilderness, extrinsic wildflowers, and trees rendering an amiable ambiance for hiking excursions.

Wadi Hnaiah also houses villages and tribe settlements hosting fine hospitality for dinner and picnicking activities. Spend a relaxing afternoon climbing cliff and hiking up to elevation at this 120 meter stretch of nature’s best marvels which also witness migratory birds during winters.
  • Location - Wadi, Najd region, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

5. Go Quad biking at Al Thumama desert - Discover the best of Riyadh at this splendid desert which is a popular site for quad biking, skateboarding, and camel riding excursions. This is one of the largest and most magnificent desserts in Saudi Arabia and attracts a hustling crowd annually.

Spend an evening in this desert and admire the night studded Arabic sky or delve into a relaxing bonfire cavity and interact with performers and musicians. Al Thumama desert has massive sand dunes and strong winds rendering the perfect atmosphere for a camel ride or hiking expedition.
  • Location - Al Thumama Desert

6. Dine at Kingdom Centre Tower - Out of the most fabulous and incredible skyscrapers in Riyadh, this unique and resplendent tower has grandiose interiors, marvelous engineering, and unbelievable architecture worth admiring.

Not only this, this opulent tower houses the famous four-season hotel with best-reviewed restaurants rendering a 360 panorama of the entire Riyadh cityscape. Tourists can find enthralling restaurants with multi-cuisine menus and amiable hospitality as well. Don't forget to shop at the malls and shopping complexes admiring the myriad of elegant collections and high-end brands.
  • Location -  King Abdullah Rd, King Fahd, Riyadh 12271, Saudi Arabia

7. Explore the interiors at Al Murabba Palace - Uncover the lavish interiors of this unique palace which is one of the most magnificent attractions in Riyadh. Spread over a massive area of 9800 meters, this grandiose fortress has over 32 royal apartments, marble-designed courtyards, and Egyptian architecture worth admiring.

Al Murabba palace was the residence of the Saudi royals up until 1932 when this place went under construction and refurbishments to the museum we see now. The place houses a splendid museum with ancient artifacts and other intriguing items on display.
  • Location - 2722 King Saud, Al Murabba, Riyadh 12631, Saudi Arabia

8. Take a bath at Wadi Namar Waterall - Ever seen a waterfall right in the middle of a desert? Wadi namar waterfalls are a top-notch attraction that features a massive waterfall surrounded towering up to a height of 20 meters.

This immense water is surrounded by verdant wilderness and unique wildlife of extrinsic species of birds and plants. Take a break from your frenzy activity planner and delve into the unparalleled beauty of Saudi’s best nature marvels.
  • Location - H CJ+52V Namar Riyadh 14962, Saudi Arabia

9. Go shopping at Riyadh Gallery - Uncover the shopaholic within you and become a spendthrift at this massive shopping complex. Riyadh gallery has very impressive collections of luxuriant boutiques and high-end brands selling trendiest attires, antiques, silverware, crafts, and souvenirs best displaying Saudi Arabia’s grandiose creations and marvels.

Tourists can also find a myriad of recreational activities at Riyadh gallery starting from go-karting, bowling as well as a food court with best-reviewed dining experiences. Spend a complacent afternoon at this amazing attraction and take a bag full of memories.
  • Location - King Fahd Rd, King Fahd, Riyadh 12262, Saudi Arabia

10.  Explore Saudi Arabia air force museum - Discover the unique and unbeatable engineering at this amazing air force museum which is a must-visit attraction in your travel itinerary. The museum houses elegant and classy aircraft which were in use from 1902 till the present.

Upon entrance, tourists can find a massive gallery with weapons, aircraft, and military equipment used in Riyadh’s military. Catch a 3D movie and learn about the intricate details behind this exquisite attraction.
  • Location - Eastern Ring Rd, King Abdullah Dt., exit 10 Riyadh 12451, Saudi Arabia

What is Riyadh famous for?

Riyadh is extremely famous for being one often most populated and richest Saudi nation with a myriad of splendid attractions, natural marvels, skyscrapers, opulent and luxurious lodgings, and a very hospitable ambiance promising a splendid vacation in the finest of Arabian ambiance.

Which is the best time to visit Riyadh?

The best time to visit Riyadh is during Winters. The climate is comparatively cooler with very occasional rainfall making it a top-notch climate to visit all tourist attractions.

How much does a trip to Riyadh cost?

A trip to Riyadh should cost around Rs 80,000 per person inclusive of flight bookings, guide story visits, best lodging, and meals.

Is it expensive to visit Riyadh?

No, Riyadh is a cheap tourist location. The average cost of travel would be around 208 SAR and the average cost of food would be around 8 -12 SAR. You can get a hotel room or you can book a studio apartment for around 100-150 SAR.

Which are the famous historical places to visit in Riyadh?

  1. Al Murabba Palace - Visit this enthralling tourist attraction which was the residence of Riyadh’s royal family up until 1932. This palace has marble courtyards with intricate details and designs as well as royal chambers and official quarters. Tourists can find an impressive museum with intriguing ancient artifacts on display best highlighting Riyadh’s significant customs and cultures.
  2. Diriyah - If you want to delve into the sacred Riyadh’s traditions and customs, then it is advised to visit this enthralling and top-notch tourist attraction called Diriyah. It is a well-recognized UNESCO heritage site with mud wall houses and tribe settlements and verdant and lush wilderness attracting extrinsic birds and animals promising a relaxing nature excursion.
  3. Masmak fortress - If you want to best explore Riyadh’s history then giving this fortress and admiring its flamboyant architecture and interiors is a must. Masmak fortress has a myriad of luxurious apartments, with massive courtyards and complaint seating areas promising a fun afternoon.

What are the adventure activities to do in Riyadh?

  1. Go camel riding at Al Thumama desert - This unique and splendid desert features a chill and laid-back atmosphere and hosts amazing activities like camel riding, quad biking, and skateboarding attracting thrill-seekers worldwide. Delve into amusing stargazing and bonfires activities and take home a myriad of memories.
  2. Wildlife safari at Riyadh Zoo - Witness grandiose and marvelous animals and other extrinsic wildlife up close in this thrilling safari ride at this extravagant zoo. Riyadh zoo houses a plethora of rare species and also hosts animal feeding programs and safari which are a definite addition to your itinerary if you are an animal lover.
  3. Hiking at Wadi Hanifah - Hike through dense wilderness and explore cliffs and elevation at this massive hiking excursion. Wadi Hanifah is a beautiful stretch of 120 kilometers encapsulating the best of Riyadh.

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