Exploring Riyadh
Riyadh: A Blend of History, Culture, and Modern Marvels
Riyadh, the bustling capital of Saudi Arabia, offers a rich mix of history, culture, modernity, and natural beauty. Whether you're a local, a new resident, or a tourist, the city is brimming with fascinating places to visit. From ancient landmarks to contemporary malls, here's a guide to some of the must-visit spots in Riyadh.
Historical and Cultural Landmarks
1. Al Masmak Fortress
A 19th-century heritage site built with clay and mudbrick, Al Masmak Fortress played a pivotal role in the Kingdom’s history. It houses records and exhibits detailing the regaining of Riyadh in 1902.
Hours: Sun to Thu 8 AM-9 PM, Fri 4 PM-8 PM, Sat 9 AM-8 PM
Location: Al Thumairi Street, Ad Dira
2. Murabba Historical Palace
The Murabba Historical Palace offers visitors a fascinating journey into Saudi Arabia’s past. Built in the 1930s, this Najdi-style palace once served as King Abdulaziz Al Saud's residence and administrative hub.
Visitors can explore the large garden, a car gallery featuring vintage vehicles, and a park with ample space for children. Nearby attractions include the King Abdulaziz Historical Museum and the King Abdulaziz Grand Mosque.
Hours: Daily 8 AM-10 PM
Location: Al Murabba
3. At-Turaif District
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, At-Turaif is the birthplace of the first Saudi state. Wander through its mudbrick houses, courtyards, and alleyways to soak in its historical significance.
Hours: Sat-Thu 10 AM-12 AM, Fri 2 PM-12 AM (Last entry at 11 PM)
Art and Museums
4. JAX District
An artistic hub in Diriyah, featuring over 100 warehouses with art exhibitions, music performances, and installations.
Open: 24/7
Location: Al Jadidah, Diriyah
5. National Museum of Saudi Arabia
The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is a treasure trove of the kingdom’s rich history and heritage. Located in the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, the museum offers immersive exhibits that span from prehistoric times to modern Saudi Arabia.
Highlights include artifacts from ancient civilizations, detailed displays of Islamic history, and engaging dioramas of traditional Saudi life. The museum’s architecture and gardens are equally captivating, providing a serene setting for exploration.
Hours: Mon-Wed 9 AM-7 PM, Thu 9 AM-10 PM, Fri 2 PM-10 PM, Sat 9 AM-7 PM
Entry Fees: SAR10
6. Saudi Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA)
Located in JAX District, this museum highlights contemporary art from local and international artists.
Hours: Mon-Thu 10 AM-10 PM, Fri-Sat 4 PM-10 PM
7. Naila Art Gallery
Founded in 2012 by Naifa AlFayez, Naila Art Gallery stands as Riyadh’s premier destination for art enthusiasts. With over 10,000 artworks by 400+ talented artists and more than 300 curated events, the gallery has played a pivotal role in fostering the local and global art scene.
Renowned for its dynamic exhibitions, workshops, and art talks, Naila embraces cutting-edge technology through 3D exhibitions and a state-of-the-art database, making art accessible to all. It’s not just a gallery; it’s a bridge connecting artists, collectors, and admirers to the inspiring world of creativity.
Hours: Sat-Thu 2 PM-10 PM
Location: Takhassusi Street, Al Mathar Ash Shamali
Modern Marvels
8. Kingdom Centre Skybridge
The Kingdom Centre, also known as the Kingdom Tower, is one of Saudi Arabia's tallest skyscrapers and a premier tourist attraction in Riyadh. At its pinnacle, the Sky Bridge—a 65-meter steel structure weighing approximately 300 tons—spans the 99th floor, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of Riyadh from a height of 300 meters.
Beyond its architectural marvel, the Kingdom Centre houses a luxurious shopping mall featuring a diverse selection of high-end local and international brands, making it a central hub for both sightseeing and retail therapy.
Location: Al Olaya
Hours: Sat-Thu noon-10:30 PM, Fri 4 PM-10:30 PM
Entry Fee: SAR 69 (adults), SAR 23 (kids)
For a visual tour of the Kingdom Centre and its Sky Bridge, watch the following video.
9. Boulevard City
A dynamic entertainment zone, Boulevard City features a range of attractions, including restaurants, cinemas, and concert venues. It’s also home to thrilling experiences like VR Zero Latency and sports events.
Location: Hittin
Hours: Daily 4 PM-2 AM
Parks and Nature
10. King Abdullah Park
King Abdullah Park, located in Riyadh's Al Malaz district, is a 318,000-square-meter urban oasis offering lush greenery, vibrant flowerbeds, and well-maintained pathways. A highlight is its impressive water fountain, which hosts mesmerizing light and sound shows in the evenings.
The park also features playgrounds, jogging tracks, and picnic areas, making it a family-friendly destination. Throughout the year, it hosts various events and cultural activities, enhancing its appeal as a recreational hub.
Location: Al Malaz
Hours: Daily 4:30 PM-12:30 AM
11. Wadi Namar
Wadi Namar, located in Wadi Hanifah, is a picturesque desert oasis and a popular nature spot in Riyadh. Featuring a natural lake, a man-made waterfall cascading from a nearby dam, and over 520 carefully planted palm trees, it’s a perfect getaway for relaxation and recreation.
Visitors can trek nearby hills for adventure or enjoy leisurely walks along green-lined sidewalks. The presence of ducks and fish in the lake adds a delightful touch, making it a perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
Location: Al Warad
Hours: Open 24 Hours
12. Edge of the World
The Edge of the World, or Jebel Fihrayn, is one of Riyadh’s most iconic natural attractions. Part of the Tuwaiq Escarpment, this dramatic cliff offers unparalleled views of the vast desert stretching into the horizon, creating a sense of standing at the edge of infinity.
Ideal for hiking and adventure enthusiasts, the site is known for its unique rock formations and serene environment. Whether you’re watching a spectacular sunset or enjoying a desert trek, the Edge of the World promises a memorable escape into nature.
Location:
Shopping and Souks
13. Souq Al Zal
Dating back to 1901, this market is a treasure trove of traditional Saudi items, from handmade carpets to antiques. Visitors can enjoy the daily auctions and soak in the cultural vibe.
Location: Diriyah
Hours: Daily 8 AM-10 PM
14. ROSHN Front
Previously known as Riyadh Front, this shopping and dining destination features a mix of international brands and local favorites. The indoor and outdoor walkways provide a pleasant experience for shoppers.
Location: Near King Khalid International Airport
Hours: Sun-Wed 8 AM-midnight, Thu-Sat 6 AM-3 AM
15. Shopping Malls in Riyadh
Riyadh boasts an impressive array of shopping malls, catering to every need—from luxury brands to family entertainment:
- Salam Mall (Alawali)
- Thaghr Plaza (Al Faisaliyah)
- Panorama Mall (Al Mathar Ash Shamali)
- Al Nakheel Mall (Al Mughrizat)
- Riyadh Avenue Mall (Al Murabba)
- Tala Mall (An Nafal)
- Riyadh Park (An Nakheel)
- Granada Center (Ash Shuhada)
- Qasr Mall (As Suwaidi)
- Hayat Mall (King Fahd)
- Riyadh Gallery Mall (King Fahd)
- Sahara Mall (King Fahd)
- Al Hamra Mall (King Faisal)
- Kingdom Centre Mall (Olaya)
- Centria Mall (Olaya)
- Mode Mall (Olaya)
Mosques in Riyadh
16. Al-Rajhi Grand Mosque
The Al Rajhi Grand Mosque, located in the Al Jazirah neighborhood of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is one of the city's largest and most significant Islamic institutions. Funded by the Al Rajhi family, it serves as a central place of worship and a community hub for social events like Eid and large gatherings. The mosque's prayer halls can accommodate approximately 18,000 men and 2,500 women, making it a prominent landmark in Riyadh.
17. Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque
The Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Grand Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque of Riyadh, is a prominent religious site in Saudi Arabia. It can accommodate up to 17,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest mosques in the country. The mosque's architecture features brown Arriyadh limestone, which creates a mesmerizing golden appearance when illuminated at night.
Access to the mosque's interior is restricted to Muslim visitors; non-Muslims are not permitted inside. However, non-Muslims can appreciate the mosque's impressive exterior and explore its beautiful courtyard, which is open to the public. The mosque is open daily for the five obligatory prayers, with specific prayer times varying daily.
Timing: 9 am to 5 pm
Sunday: 1:30 am to 12:30 am
18. Hasaa bint Nassr Al Rajhi Mosque
Located in the Al Yasmin District, this mosque accommodates approximately 3,000 worshippers. It features Ottoman-style Turkish architecture and provides separate facilities for men and women.
19. Bassem Al Suleman Mosque
Situated centrally, this mosque is known for its inclusive approach, offering Friday sermons with translations in English, Urdu, and sign language, displayed on a large screen. It also integrates modern technology by concluding sermons with QR codes for further engagement.
20. KAFD Grand Mosque
Located in the King Abdullah Financial District, this mosque's design is inspired by the desert rose of the Arabian Peninsula, blending modern architecture with cultural symbolism.
21. Prince Muqrin's Mother's Mosque
Found on Anas bin Malik Road in the Al-Malqa neighborhood, this mosque combines modern construction with traditional Islamic design, featuring intricately carved domes and imposing gateways.
22. Princess Modhi Al Angari Grand Mosque
This mosque showcases Andalusian-style architecture, offering a spacious and clean interior, well-maintained facilities, and a serene courtyard adorned with flowers and a fountain.
Whether you’re delving into Riyadh’s rich history, enjoying modern art, shopping at its luxurious malls, or finding tranquility in its stunning mosques, the city promises an unforgettable experience for all.
