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Jan
10
Riyadh Travel & Sightseeing Guide
Filed Under Saudi Arabia
A trip to Riyadh
A gleaming hi-tech city, Riyadh’s wealth comes from the oil industry. As the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is a showcase of the pomp and richness of the kingdom. It is important to note that Saudi Arabia doesn’t issue tourists with visas and visitors need to either obtain an invitation or book a special tour with the government. Arrival in the kingdom is via the King Khalid International Airport.
Flights to Riyadh
Opened in 1983, King Khalid International Airport exudes a beautiful balance of modern architecture and Islamic artistry. The four terminals are decorated with artworks by famous Saudi artists. The airport services both domestic and international flights, with a capacity to serve over eight million passengers a year. The airport has all modern amenities, such as banks, restaurants and a wide array of shops. If you are looking for a cheap flight to Riyadh try Thomas Cook.
It is important to note that there is no public transportation from the airport and visitors will either have to arrange their own transportation, such as a hotel pick up or use a taxi. Licensed taxis are available from outside the Arrivals Terminal and the journey into Riyadh takes about 30 minutes.
Riyadh
Sightseeing in Riyadh
Female visitors should note that it is important to dress modestly and cover your head. Saudi Arabia is a stoutly Islamic country and this may make travel for western women somewhat restrictive. It is also important to observe that drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited and visitors should not attempt to bring alcohol into the kingdom.
The old city is called Al Bathaa and is beautiful to explore on foot. The Masmak Fortress, built in 1865, was recently renovated and now houses a museum. The Riyadh Museum is also well worth a visit, showcasing the history of the kingdom. The Ruins of Dir’aiyah are an important attraction, and this major archeological site can easily be reached by car. Here, visitors can see the ruins as well as reconstructed buildings, such as palaces and mosques.
Fun by night – eating drinking and partying
As alcoholic beverages are banned in Saudi Arabia, there is very little drinking to be had. Most of the nightlife is centred on the many international hotels in town. Most hotels offer a range of restaurants, which are popular with locals as well. As an international city, there are a range of restaurants available, serving everything from European to Asian food.
During your visit to the kingdom, you should try the local cuisine. Two popular restaurants are Al-Andalus and Al-Taboon. The former offers buffet style dining with a range of Arabic and international food, while the latter serves the best kabsa in Riyadh. Kabsa is a Saudi staple made with meat, rice, tomatoes, onions and various spices, somewhat like an Indian biryani.
Fun by day - shopping and activities
Shopping is a favourite pastime in Riyadh and there is much on offer. Gold is a good purchase in the kingdom, as most items are sold by weight rather than by the hours of workmanship put into a piece. Popular with local ladies is the Al-Bat’ha Mall, on General Bat’ha street. It is one of the oldest malls in the Al-Fouta area and houses close to 90 shops offering clothes, shoes and accessories. For more modern shopping, visit the numerous other malls in the city such as: Al Attas Mall, Al Faisaliyah Centre, Al Haram Mall and Al Khaleej Plata Mall.
Daytrips
There are several nearby attractions that can be reached with a daytrip from Riyadh. Local tour agencies can arrange transportation and guided tours of most of these sites. The Ha’ir region is relatively close to the city. This is a stretch of fertile, well-watered land that receives international bird-watchers during the winter, when flocks of migratory birds arrive.
Janadriyah is another popular winter escape. The town festival (held each February) is an excellent showcase of traditional Saudi music and customs. There is much pageantry in Janadriyah at this time, and locals even put on stage-stealing camel races.
Visitors who have hired a vehicle may even wish to plan a two-day trip to Bahrain (four hours by car). This neighbouring kingdom is an oasis of liberalism for those feeling drained from the lack of a nightlife in Saudi Arabia.
Must-see attractions
Riyadh’s premier attractions straddle the line between antiquity and modernity. Restored palaces shed light on the long-standing opulence of the royal family, while soaring skyscrapers in the city centre showcase the city’s competitive nature and seemingly endless supply of wealth.
Among Riyadh’s must-see attractions is the King Abdulaziz Darat Institute, dedicated to preserving and promoting Saudi culture, history and art. The highlight is the Al Murabba Palace, a restored royal mansion that presents visitors with an authentic glimpse of domestic life in the historic royal family.
Be sure to climb the Kingdom Centre tower during your visit to Riyadh. This 1,000 ft-tall, dual-towered structure is crowned with a linked Skybridge (found on the 99th floor) where tourists can enjoy a sweeping panoramic view of the city. It is best visited just before closing (21:00) when the city lights twinkle across the cityscape.
The historic Malaz district is a nice place to retire for a few minutes, largely because of Jabal Abu Makhrouq Park, perched here at the crest of an unexpected hill. Once used by local royalty to survey the city, the beautifully-landscaped park is now open to the public and equipped with children’s playgrounds.
Best time to go
The best time to visit Riyadh is during the winter months of December, January and February. Average temperatures usually rest slightly above 20°C, making this the best time to plan outdoor sightseeing trips and excursions to neighbouring cities. The summers are much hotter, with average temperatures in the low 40°C range. Anyone who does pay a visit during July and August can expect to take midday breaks from the heat by visiting indoor, air-conditioned attractions. Rain falls primarily from February through April.
Rainy day suggestions
High temperatures in the summer and rainy days in the spring are likely to drive tourists indoors for two or three hours each day. Inside attractions include the quirky Money Museum, a tribute to Saudi Arabia’s greatest commodity. The Museum of Archaeology and History is a large institute home to countless exhibits exploring ancient Middle Eastern cultures. Artefacts housed here include weapons, traditional costumes and ancient beauty accessories.
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