Riyadh

The capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, featuring modern skyscrapers, shopping malls, and cultural institutions. It serves as the primary hub for business, culture, and tourism in the kingdom.

Things to do

• Kingdom Centre Tower — Visit the iconic 99-story skyscraper with an observation deck offering 360-degree views of Riyadh's skyline from 183 meters high.
• Masmak Fortress — Explore this restored mud-brick fortress from 1895 that played a crucial role in the founding of modern Saudi Arabia and now houses a museum.
• Riyadh National Museum — Discover Saudi Arabia's history and Islamic heritage through extensive galleries featuring archaeological artifacts, calligraphy, and traditional artifacts.
• Al Bujairi Heritage Village — Wander through this restored traditional district with authentic Najdi architecture, local crafts, and traditional restaurants.
• King Fahd Road — Shop at this major commercial boulevard lined with luxury brands, local boutiques, and modern shopping centers.
• Diriyah — Visit the UNESCO World Heritage mud-brick structures and original settlement that founded the Saudi kingdom, located 30 minutes northwest of central Riyadh.
• Edge of the World — Trek to this dramatic natural escarpment 90 minutes outside Riyadh offering stunning desert vistas and rock formations.

Food to try

• Kabsa — Fragrant rice dish cooked with spiced meat, typically lamb or chicken, served with salad and yogurt as the national dish of Saudi Arabia.
• Mutabbaq — Thin pastry stuffed with savory fillings like spiced meat, cheese, or vegetables, then folded and fried until crispy.
• Hummus and Pita — Creamy chickpea dip drizzled with olive oil and topped with pine nuts, served with warm Arabic flatbread for dipping.
• Shawarma — Thinly sliced marinated meat (chicken or lamb) cooked on a vertical spit and wrapped in flatbread with tahini sauce and vegetables.
• Al Kabab — Grilled meat skewers of minced lamb or beef mixed with herbs and spices, a local favorite at traditional restaurants throughout Riyadh.
• Kunafa and Qahwa Experience — Enjoy sweet shredded pastry dessert with cheese or nuts paired with traditional Arabic coffee, an essential evening social custom.

Local customs & good to know

• Greetings and Respect — Men shake hands with men and place their hand over their heart; avoid physical contact between unrelated men and women, and always greet with respectful salutations.
• Dress Code — Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered; women should wear an abaya in public spaces, though it is becoming more relaxed for foreign visitors in modern areas.
• Prayer Times — Most shops and offices close during the five daily prayer times, particularly Dhuhr (midday) and Asr (afternoon); plan activities accordingly.
• Weekend Timing — The weekend in Saudi Arabia is Friday and Saturday, not Saturday and Sunday, so plan your activities and dining reservations accordingly.