Highlights
Diriyah
Set just on the outskirts of Riyadh, Diriyah is the birthplace of the Kingdom of Saudi. Founded in 1446, it symbolises the beauty, generosity and resilience of the nation and its people. It was once an ancient trade and pilgrimage route, and a meeting spot for people travelling to or from Asia, Africa or Europe. Within Diriyah, uncover the UNESCO World Heritage mud-brick city of Al-Turaif, where you can walk through hidden alleyways in the footsteps of Arabian kings and heroes. Alongside the extensive ruins and historical monuments, the site features a variety of museums, luxury hotels, restaurants, shopping, entertainment options and more!
Saudi National Museum
Head on a journey across Saudi through the ages at the Saudi National Museum in Riyadh, home to nearly 4,000 fascinating artefacts and antiquities – from pre-historic skeletons and desert meteorites to documents from the founding of the modern kingdom and exhibits on the birth and rise of Islam.
Al Masmak Fortress
Dating back to 1865, another thing to do in Riyadh is visit the alluring Al Masmak Fortress. This fascinating citadel is made from clay and mud-brick, and was conquered by King Abdulaziz back in 1903 when he took control of Riyadh. From this fortress, he united the different kingdoms and provinces that make up the Saudi nation as it’s known today.
Shopping and Souqs
Whether you’re after Arabian antiques, dallah coffee pots and incense burners, or the latest designer labels, shopping in Riyadh offers it all. Don’t miss a trip to the labyrinthine alleys of Souq Al Zal (which first opened in 1901) where local merchants sell everything from gold coins to quirky handicrafts. For a more modern retail experience, Riyadh Park Mall features an IMAX cinema and various designer shops beneath its wave-like glass roof, whilst other options include the open-air precinct The Zone and the shiny skyscraper Kingdom Centre.
Saudi Cuisine
As the capital of Saudi, Riyadh has long been a crossroads for travellers passing between the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Asia. As such, it has developed a unique and dynamic culinary heritage, which can be experienced across the city’s array of eateries. Head to Najd Village to enjoy authentic Saudi recipes (such as kasba, jareesh and hashi) in a traditional communal style and amid local architecture. The sophisticated Takya serves Saudi fusion food inspired by the country’s regions, and Suhail takes a contemporary take on authentic local favourites.