best tourist places in riyadh

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31 Tourist places to Visit in Riyadh

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Riyadh, being the capital of Saudi Arabia has so many attractions, tourist places to visit, things to do, and picnic spots that you need weeks to explore all of them.

• Riyadh City Bus Routes and Timings

What is the best time to go?

I believe the best time to visit Riyadh is during the winter season, as you can enjoy the whole day and the night. The temperature in summer goes as high as 50°C making it impossible to move around.

If you want to come by air, book cheap Riyadh flights well in time to keep your trip economical.

Riyadh Boulevard World

If you have only one day in Riyadh and want to make full use of it, Boulevard World is the best place to visit. There are representations of different countries on the Boulevard and I personally liked China, Morocco, and Italy.

The area is covered with numerous shops, kid’s activities, cafes, restaurants and so much more. Children would love to go there and enjoy themselves. You need to walk at least 3 hours to cover the entire Boulevard area.

• Boulevard World location .
• Boulevard World Timing: 3 pm to 11 pm.

If you are traveling with children, the best tourist place to visit in Riyadh cannot be other than the Zoo. It is probably the biggest Zoo in Saudi Arabia with a train ride inside and therefore, your children are going to love it.

• Riyadh Zoo Entry Ticket: SR 11.50/adult and SR 5.75/child.
• Riyadh Zoo Train Ticket: SR 4.60/person.
• Riyadh Zoo Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM.
• Riyadh Zoo Location.

1st Paintball

If you are looking for some adventurous things to do in Riyadh, Firstainment is the place to visit. It is an excellent place to have fun and bond with friends.

Keep in mind that bullets hurt even though you are wearing a protective vest. They will not give you shoes and you will get the paint all over your pairs, so you better grab your old shoes.

• 1st Paintball Location .
• Firstainment Timing: 4 pm to 12 am.
• 1s Paintball Price: SR 110/person for 100 rounds and SR 65 for each additional 100 rounds.

Universal Bowling Center

Universal Bowling Center is quite a famous place to visit in Riyadh among expats tourists due to its reasonable price and good environment.

• UBC Location .
• UBC Timing: 4 pm to 1:30 am.
• Universal Bowling Center Price: SR 30/person for bowling.

When the outside temperature is 50°C, tourists can visit the place called Snow City located in Othaim Mall, Riyadh to experience -5°C. There are numerous rides there and you are going to love it with your family.

• Othaim Mall Location .
• Snow City is on the 3rd Floor.
• Snow City Ticket Price: SR 170/person.

Word Sights Park

If you are someone who loves to take a lot of pictures, visit this tourist attraction called the world sights park in Riyadh. It has around 25 monuments worldwide, including the Taj Mahal, Burj Khalifa, Petra, etc.

• World Sights Park Location .
• World Sights Park Entry Ticket: SR 11.50/adult and SR 5.75/child.

Nofa Wildlife Safari Park

You are in a cage and experience free wildlife moving around you, this is what you feel when you visit Nofa Wildlife Safari Park in Riyadh. It is a perfect place to visit in Riyadh with your children as they can see the wild animals moving around.

• Nofa Wildlife Safari Park Location .
• Nofa Wildlife Safari Timing: 8:00 am to 3:30 pm.
• Ticket Price: SR 1,500/10 persons. (you need to book the entire truck).

Al Heet Cave

Al Heet Cave nice evening picnic spot to visit about 35 km from Riyadh. The place is not explored much by tourists and swimming is not that easy as the water is not clean. It is a perfect place for bachelors, not recommended to go with children.

Al Heet Cave Location .

Escape the Room

If you are a horror lover, you would love to visit the place called “Escape the Room” in Riyadh. Each Escape Room is a real-life adventure game. Your goal is simple, you have 60 minutes to open your mind & eyes, work together, crack codes & solve ciphers to escape — alive!

• Escape the Room Price: SR 155 to SR 200/person.
• Escape the Room Timing: 1 pm to 12 am.
• Escape the Room Location .
• Book your tickets online .

Museum of Illusions

If you want to take some crazy pictures in Riyadh, the Museum of illusions is the place to visit. Although it is not a huge museum, there are enough frames to fill your Facebook or Instagram profile. The staff at the museum will guide you on how to take pictures.

• Museum of Illusion Price: SR 80/adult, SR 60/child, SR 240 for a family of 4 people.
• Museum of Illusion Location .

Gyrocopter Flight in Riyadh

If you have never been on a helicopter, it is time to ride a gyrocopter in Riyadh. You can have a bird’s – eye view of the Thumamah desert in Riyadh and experience the sights from a different perspective on the exiting Gyrocopter tour.

• Gyrocopter Flight Price: SR 450/person.
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Kingdom Center

Kingdom Center is the 4th tallest building in Riyadh with a height of 302 meters but tourists still visit its top floor to have an exotic view of the city.

• Kingdom Center Location .
• Sky Bridge Ticket Price: SR 63/person.

Airforce Museum

Airforce Museum in Riyadh has a variety of planes, jets, and helicopters on display which makes it a must-visit place in the city. There are flight simulators available but perhaps due to pandemics, the services is suspended these days.

• Airforce Museum Timing: 4 pm to 9 pm (Tuesday off).
• Airforce Museum Location .
• Airforce Museum Ticket: Free.

Edge of the World

If you are an adventurous tourist, you should visit the place called Edge of the World situated a 2 hours drive from Riyadh. It is always better to have a 4X4 car for this as you will be driving off the track.

Make sure to start with the first location given below and once you are there, navigate the second location to avoid being misguided by Google Maps.

• Entry Location to Edge of the World.
• Final Location to Edge of the World.

Finger Mountain 

If you are a tourist who loves adventure, finger mountain or Jabal al-Isbii located in Qiddiya Riyadh is the place to visit. It is a cool place to go for a short hike but be careful the closer you get to the top, the Rock is very brittle and will crumble. Wear good shoes and long pants.

• Finger Mountain location .

King Abdullah Park

If you want to enjoy a fountain show in Riyadh, King Abdullah Park is the tourist spot to visit. It has nice play areas for children as well as different musical vehicles such as trains and cars which adds some difference from other gardens. 

• King Abdullah Park Entry Fee: SR 11.50/adult and SR 5.75/child.
• King Abdullah Park Location .

Al Salam Park

Al Salam Park has been a perfect picnic place both for tourists and residents of Riyadh to visit on a weekend. It is a very well-maintained park with green grass, many trees, and a beautiful lake in the middle.

• Al Salam Park location.
• 8 best family parks in Riyadh

Lake Khararah

Lake Khararah is a tourist attraction and a perfect picnic spot situated around 60 km from Riyadh city center. The best time to visit Lake Khararah is winter when there is enough rain to fill the lake.

• Lake Khararah Location .

Wadi Hanifa

This place once used to be a garbage dumping point of Riyadh has been converted into a beautiful park and a quiet tourist attraction. It is a perfect spot to enjoy some time with peace of mind while your children play with water.

• Wadi Hanifa Location .

Ushaiger Heritage Village

The 1500 years old Ushhaiger Heritage Village situated around 200 km from Riyadh is a very unique tourist spot for a walk through the history, beauty, and simplicity. Ushaiqer is a standing ancient village that outlines the beauty of Najdi style and art.

• Ushaiger Heritage Village Location .

Ad Diriyah Museum

You can learn and explore Saudi Arabia’s history through an arranged tour at Diriyah Museum in Riyadh which has become a great tourist place. It is not yet open for public visits so you will have to book a tour operator.

Here you will find out how Saudi Arabia was established, its 1st state, 2nd state, and how it united as one and it is past to current rulers.

• Diriyah Musuem Location .

Diplomatic Quarters

Diplomatic Quarters in Riyadh are filled with embassies and residential compounds and therefore you cannot visit on your own. You can only visit this place if there is someone who lives inside is willing to host you.

• 8 Things to do in Diplomatic Quarters .
• Diplomatic Quarters Location .

National Museum

National Museum Riyadh is an amazing tourist spot where you can see the history of Saudi Arabia and Islam with amazing artifacts and displays. The whole activity would not take more than 2 hours.

• National Museum Location .
• National Museum Timing: 8 AM to 8 PM.
• National Museum Entry Ticket: Free.

Murabba Historical Palace

Murabba Historical Palance is a beautiful tourist attraction in Riyadh with scenic pathways winding through beautifully sculpted gardens. Water features add an otherworldly effect to the place, especially at sunset.

• Murabba Historical Palace Location .
• Murabba Historical Palace Timing: 8 am to 10 pm.
• Murabba Historical Palace Ticket: Free.

Al Masmak Museum

Al Masmak is a thick-walled fortress that was built in Riyadh during the second Saudi state time in the 19th century and hence it is a great tourist attraction. It was built mainly for defense purposes but later had different uses.

• Al Masmak Museum Location .
• Al Masmak Museum Ticket: Free.
• Al Masmak Museum Timing: 8 AM to 9 PM.

VIA Riyadh is very calm clean, well-maintained, and organized with a variety of casual and fine dining restaurants and coffee shops. It is indeed a great place to enjoy a dining experience with friends and family suitable for kids also they have big open spaces. The place is very prestigious with a touch of majesty.

• VIA Riyadh Location .

U-Walk by Cenomi

If you are done with the tourist places to visit in Riyadh, let’s go shopping and eat at U-Walk. There are so many world-recognized restaurants and dress shops here.

Even you will get the movie theater “MUVI”. You will get a beautiful fountain in the middle of the Cenomi. Young people love to go there in the evening.

• U-Walk Location .
• U-Walk Timings: 9 AM to 11:30 PM.

Riyadh Front

Riyadh Front is another amazing place to visit in Riyadh for shopping and eating with a great ambiance. There are some stores, Vox cinema, and a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines plus cafes/coffee shops.

• Riyadh Front Location .

Pigeons Tower

Pigeons Tower is an abandoned unique building that can be visited during your trip to Riyadh. Each chamber has its own tower and in the middle, there is an open courtyard connecting all chambers via a passageway.

worth visiting for about 30 minutes stopover on the way to Hidden Canyon. Be cautious!!! There are so much of flies around and kind of disgusting too.

• Pigeons Tower Location .

Hidden Canyon

Situated at around 100 kilometers from Riyadh, Hidden Canyon is a perfect place to visit for nature lovers in the winter season. Hidden Canyon is a beautiful rock formation where you might find some rainwater too.

Wear comfortable clothes as you might have to climb up and down to explore more.

• Hidden Canyon Location .

Audat Sudair

Audat Sudair has one of the largest, most beautiful, and well-maintained historical towns in the Riyadh region. Many old houses have been converted into beautiful museums.

Audat Sudair is situated around 150 kilometers from Riyadh and is one of the must-visit places for those tourists who like historical places.

• Audat Sudair location .

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Must-see attractions in Riyadh

Masmak Fortress

Surrounded by sand, this squat fortification was built around 1865 and is like a scene out of the movies: a big fortress representing an empire. It was…

National Museum

This state-of-the-art museum is one of the finest in the Middle East. Encased within modernist architecture, its two floors contain eight well-designed…

Not for the faint-hearted or sufferers of vertigo, here high-speed lifts fly you at 180km/h to the 99th-floor Sky Bridge, inside the Kingdom Centre. The…

Accessible only for children and those accompanying them, this is the largest zoo in Saudi Arabia and began life in 1957 as a small-scale menagerie…

Globe Experience

The Globe Experience is a spectacular viewing platform inside an enormous glass ball that's 24m in diameter, made of 655 glass panels and suspended just…

Kingdom Centre

Riyadh’s landmark tower, rising 302m high, is a stunning piece of modern architecture – it’s particularly conspicuous at night, when the upper sweep is…

Antiquities Museum

This museum is home to objects found during the Faw and Rabdha excavations (sites in the south and north of Saudi Arabia) by King Saud University in the…

After visiting the umpteenth mall and restaurant, head a little further out towards Wadi Namar for a pleasant change. The 2km-long dam is surrounded by…

Addiriyah Park

Addiriyah Park is a favourite oasis in Riyadh, and its verdant terraced seating areas offer stunning views of Al Turaif, a historic district of Al…

Al Thumairi Gate

Sitting at the mouth of what was once Riyadh's western fringe in the neighbourhood of Ad Dirah, this reconstructed old city gate, made of mud and wood,…

Souq Al Jamal

One of the largest in the Arabian Peninsula, Riyadh’s camel market is a fascinating place to wander. Late afternoon is when the traders really find their…

King’s Forest

This verdant swath about an hour outside the city is a worthwhile day trip for hikers and birdwatchers. Camping is allowed, so overnighters have the…

Al Elb Dam is a coveted wetland area within the city that offers miles of date-palm-lined walkways and shaded picnic spots. Visitors can stroll across the…

World Sights Park

Get a tour of the world at this small and strange spectacle that holds miniature replicas of world landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Taj Mahal…

King Abdullah Park

One of Riyadh’s cleanest and best maintained parks, here there are several green lawns that you can picnic on, wide pathways for jogging and cycling, a…

Riyadh Water Tower

Until the year 2000, when the Al Faisaliah Tower was built, this was Riyadh's tallest landmark. It remains prominent today, and you can climb to the top…

Clock Tower

This unusual green and white clock tower in the shape of an Egyptian needle sits at the western end of Al Thumairi St in the old Riyadh neighbourhood of…

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1. Kingdom Centre Tower

0 km from city center 1 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Kingdom Centre is a 41-storey building in Riyadh housing the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh and apartments. There is a 56 m (184 ft) skybridge atop the skyscraper. The Sky bridge is one of the most futuristic attractions in Riyadh. It is a curved bridge suspended 300 metres above the city with floor-to-ceiling glass panels, which provide an unobstructed view of the Riyadh skyline.

2. Masmak Fort

10 km from city center 2 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

The Masmak Fort, also known as the Masmak Fortress or Masmak Palace, is a historical landmark in Riyadh. The 150-year-old fortress has now been converted into a museum which displays early 20th-century photographs, artwork, and multimedia presentations. Travellers can also see a documentary that depicts the royal family regaining control of the citadel.

3. National Museum of Saudi Arabia

8 km from city center 3 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

The National Museum of Saudi Arabia, better known as King Abdulaziz Historical Center (KAHC), is an eminent heritage of the history and culture of Saudi Arabia. The museum is most famous for its eight galleries which are based on different themes regarding the history of different regions in the nation. KAHC withholds glorious Islamic and Arabian art as well as architecture.

4. Deera Square

10 km from city center 4 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Deera Square is a public space located close to Masmak fort. It is locally known as Al-Safaa Square or Justice Square. Amongst westerners, Deera Square is also famous as the chop chop square. Explore the rich history of Riyadh and roam around its vibrant markets full of locally crafted goods.

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5. Ad Diriyah

10 km from city center 5 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

The old city of Ad Diriyah is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia known for its rich cultural history. It is located on the northwestern outskirts of Riyadh and comprises different districts, each offering exotic attractions. Diriyah is famous for its rich history, culture, unique art, and traditional mud-brick buildings that transport you back in time.

6. Camel Trail Riyadh

36 km from city center 6 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Camel trials in Riyadh were made in ancient times to facilitate the easy movement of camels and traders to North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. There are four camel trails in Riyadh, amongst which the first is the most popular. Activities like sightseeing, trekking, hiking, picnic, camping and biking are also popular here. The sunset and sunrise views along the camel trail are exquisite.

7. Red Sand Dunes

5 km from city center 7 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Red sand dunes are an area of desert sand dunes near Riyadh. As the name suggests, the sand here is naturally red. Several organised tours and adventure activities, including hiking and quad biking, are available. A safari trip on an ATV is a must when visiting the sand dunes. Falconry is also one of the most common activities.

8. Souq al-Thumairi

10 km from city center 8 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

The most popular local shopping spot in Riyadh is the Souq al-Thumairi, located close to the Masmak Fort. It is one of the best places to visit in Riyadh to buy handicrafts, antiques, perfume, traditional clothes, jewellery, and more. Famous for its antique auctions, it is also known as the Antique Souq due to its wide range of antique collectables such as coffee pots, silver daggers, vases, lamps, etc.

9. Murabba Palace

7 km from city center 9 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

The Murabba Palace was the former residence of King Abdul Aziz, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. It is popularly known as the Square Palace due to its unique cubic design and is considered an architectural marvel. Located close to the National Museum, the historic building is now a museum displaying various historical crafts and outfits.

10. Edge of the World

13 km from city center 10 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Edge of the World is a natural geological site in the rocky desert located northwest of Riyadh. It has straight cliffs that rise from the desert and look like a natural wall. The site gets its name from the spectacular view of the horizon witnessed from the edge of the 300-metre-high cliffs. You can also enjoy a hike through the rugged trails to reach the top. Overnight camping is popular at Acacia Valley due to the mesmerising morning views.

11. Al Rajhi Mosque

10 km from city center 11 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

The largest mosque in Riyadh is Al Rajhi, also known as the Grand Mosque and a notable institution of Islam. The mosque accommodates 18,000 men and 2,500 women in their respective prayer halls. There are tours available which take visitors through the mosque facilities, services, Imams and roles of the mosque.

12. Saqer-Aljazirah Aviation Museum

8 km from city center 12 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Saqer-Aljazirah Royal Saudi Air Force Aviation Museum provides the history of the Royal Saudi Airforce from the 1920s to the present day. It is one of the largest museums in the city. The museum unveils a series of aircraft, uniforms, engines, armaments and insignia.

13. Al Faisaliyah center

3 km from city center 13 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

It is a commercial skyscraper located in Riyadh. It is the fourth tallest building in Saudi Arabia

14. Wadi Hanifa

10 km from city center 14 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Wadi Hanifa, historically known as Wadi al-Arad, is a valley in the Najd region of Riyadh. It was formerly a waste disposal site but is now a nature reserve that runs for over 120 km. There are several water channels, green corridors, and footpaths for people to enjoy its picturesque charm. It is a popular spot for fishing and picnics. There is also a dedicated area for children to play around.

15. Qusur al Muqbil

39 km from city center 15 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Just about 70 miles south of Riyadh lies this lovely city with a palace and an archaic mosque. Qusur al Muqbil is renowned for its traditionally built homes and now-abandoned defensive towers. The abandoned ruins include a historical palace and the mud-built Attereef mosque, whose columns are standing to date. The Qusur al Muqbil Old City is located close to the famous Camel trails in Riyadh.

16. Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque

11 km from city center 16 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque (also known as the Grand Mosque of Riyadh) is one of the largest mosques in Saudi Arabia. It is open, however, only to Muslim visitors. The mosque is spread over an area of 16,800 square metres with two massive libraries, furnished separately for women and men. Its most beautiful feature is the brownstone which, when lit at night, displays a mesmerising golden visual.

17. King Abdullah Park

7 km from city center 17 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Riyadh’s largest park, King Abdullah Park (Maraz Park), is a fetching attraction located in the south of the city at Al Maraz. Its luscious green space includes play areas, gardens, lawns, and a lake and it is most famously known for its dancing musical fountain.

18. At-Turaif District

11 km from city center 18 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

The rich history of the Saudi Dynasty lies within Al-Turaif, a district located in northwest Riyadh, which was once the country’s first capital (1744 to 1818). It was marked as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 2010. At-Turaif was founded in the 15th century and contains remains of palaces, courtyards, mosques, citadels and administrative buildings, which all fell under the king’s monarch.

19. Wadi Namar

15 km from city center 19 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

The right spot for a calming getaway leads you to Wadi Namar, situated in Wadi Hanifah. An enticing natural waterpark, Wadi Namar, has been developed to withhold dams, a lake and a park which displays a breathtaking waterfall. The entire desert oasis withholds more than 9,500 trees and is a favourite venue for picnickers, joggers, bikers and hikers.

20. Al-Bujairi Heritage Park

20 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Al-Bujairi Heritage Park is the portal to Al-Diriyah’s history. Located at Wadi Hanifah, in Diriyah’s Al Bujairy district, it is a world heritage site by UNESCO. The park presents a fusion of ethnic and modern designs with various plants, trees and gardens. Along with rides for children, there are various engaging activities for visitors, like poetry, art, craft and calligraphy workshops.

21. King Khalid Grand Mosque

25 km from city center 21 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

King Khalid Mosque of Riyadh is one of the largest in Saudi Arabia and is famously known as a spiritual sanctuary or religious beacon. With its intricate stained glasses and resplendent dome, King Khalid Mosque showcases a beautiful architecture of Mosaic and Byzantine techniques. Elegant and white from the exterior, the walls on the inside embody Quranic illustrations which depict the deep customs of Arabia.

22. Tuwaiq Palace

24 km from city center 22 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Known as the Oasis in the Desert due to its grand sojourn experience, Tuwaiq Palace is a splendid attraction. The most captivating feature is the building’s architecture which won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture for its design. Its 800-metre-long curving ‘Living Wall’ is a blanket around a rampant garden. It has five tents spread out and conical walls appearing out of the spine, all of which have detailed designs and structures.

23. Riyadh zoo

7 km from city center 23 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Zoo only opens at 1pm which is the hottest part of the day and closes at 6.30pm. The zoo is large and not overcrowded at all.

24. Al Nahda Park

14 km from city center 24 out of 24 Places To Visit in Riyadh

Al Nahda Park of Riyadh is the longest park in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is the best spot for families and friends to unwind and an ideal place for exercising, jogging or cycling. The park’s name was inspired by 18th-century reformer Muhammad ibn 'Abd al-Wahhab.

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Places to Visit in Riyadh

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Tourist Places to Visit in Riyadh

Here is the list of best places to visit in riyadh:.

Masmak Fortress

It holds a historical significance in Saudi Arabia and is considered to be a symbol of unification of Saudi Arabia. The building is an integral part of Saudi heritage which has been converted into a museum which holds displays of antique guns, costumes and agricultural equipment. It is essentially also showcasing landmarks of Saudi heritage and has six distinct parts including the gate, the mosque, the courtyard, the majlis, the towers and the well.

Edge of the World

The Edge of the world in Riyadh Is located on Al-Khobar road with a cliff that overlooks an open valley. It's one of those things to do in Riyadh that is difficult to duplicate elsewhere in Saudi Arabia. The Edge of the World is a location for meditation, breathing in calm, and clearing your mind of any thoughts you don't want to bring on your journey. This location provides a stunning perspective of Riyadh.

Murabba Palace

Settled just outside the walls of the old city, the Murabba Palace stands testament to Riyadh’s regal past. The striking building reflects the best of Riyadhi architecture. Doubling up as a Museum, it also pays tribute to the late ruler King Abdul Aziz through a permanent exhibition of his personal artefacts, photographs and memorabilia. The Palace also holds some of the country’s biggest archival collections, which are kept on public display.

The largest zoo in Saudi Arabia, Riyadh Zoo is a popular attraction among locals and tourists alike. Initially established in 1957, the Zoo started off as a small-scale affair, housing only the few animals that were gifted to the first three Kings of the Kingdom. Today, the Riyadh Zoo has expanded into an explosive affair. It is home to more than 40 species of animals, each one housed in exhibits that reflect their natural habitats.

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King Abdulaziz Historical Center

Also called the Saudi National Museum, the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre preserves the biggest collection of personal artefacts previously owned by the eponymous emperor. The Historical Centre sits on the former grounds of the Murabba Palace, and is one of the most prominent historical attractions in the city. There are several units to explore at the Abdulaziz Historical Centre.

Al Faisaliah Center

One of the tallest buildings in the city, Al Faisaliah Center reflects the rapid modernity that has taken over Saudi Arabia for the past few decades. The ground floor of the 44-storey tall skyscraper features a shopping centre, home to some of the biggest brands in the world. The Centre is known for its superspeed elevator, which takes one to the very top in less than 25 seconds.

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World Sights Park

At the World Sights Park, the best wonders across the world come alive within the comfort of Riyadh city. The unique park is scattered with miniature replicas of some of the biggest monuments across the world, such as the Eiffel Tower or the Taj Mahal. The Park showcases several Arabian wonders as well, including two Mosques.

King Abdullah Park

It is the largest park in the city and used to be a former racecourse for horses where several horse racing events used to take place. It also holds public events such as the Saudi National Day celebration when fireworks are held before midnight. The park boasts of a giant dancing water fountain, an artificial lake and gets flooded by pedestrians during the festivals of eid. It also includes a wide pedestrian aisle and there are a lot of paths encircling the fountain.

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Alkhaimah Theme Park

Ras Al Khaimah’s biggest theme park, the Iceland Water Park, whisks one away to the land of the penguins. The biggest waterpark in the United Arab Emirates, Iceland features striking snow-based landscapes with over 30 different water based rides and attractions. It’s massive wave pool is its most popular feature, although the park’s Olympic length lap pool is striking as well. Amidst its snowy wonder, the water theme park features a beach as well.

 An oasis in the desert city, Olaya Park is one of the most charming green spaces in Riyadh. Lined with thick forested areas, the park can be quite the joy to explore. Well paved walkways make their way across the floors, inviting morning and evening walkers to Olaya throughout the year. There is no shortage of picnic lawns, and if the weather is right, a picnic here could never be a bad idea.

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Royal Saudi Air Force Museum

A prominent historical attraction in the city, Royal Saudi Air Force Museum preserves the country’s aeronautical history within its walls. One of the largest museums in Riyadh, it presents the history of the Air Force from its inception in the 1920s to the present day. The Museum features an outdoor park as well as an indoor exhibition centre. Exhibits on display include airline fighters, helicopters, military insignia and several different models of fighter planes.

Wadi Hanifa Riyadh

Running right through the middle of the Najd Plateau, the Wadi Hanifa is one of the most important natural landmarks in Riyadh. The valley cuts across 120 meters of desert rock, and its flourishing greenery makes it stand out against the otherwise dry landscape of the region. Once a sewage disposal repository, the green valley has now transformed into one of the biggest natural reserves in the kingdom.

Best of Taif

Now a UNESCO Heritage Site, Diriyah occupies a seminal position in the history of Saudi Arabia. Once serving as the capital city, this marvelous region nestles along the Wadi valley on the outskirts of Riyadh. Although Diriyah fell to ruins during the World Wars, efforts have been made to restore many of its wonders. The Al Bujairy district in Diriyah has opened its doors to visitors.

King Khalid Grand Mosque

Standing as a sign of the country’s strength, King Khalid Grand Mosque rises against the cityscape of Riyadh City. Once the seat of one of Saudi’s biggest and most terrifying terror attacks, the Mosque is now best regarded for its architecture. Its shining white facade shines brilliantly against the midday sun, and forms half the charm and allure of the Mosque. Its ornate stained glass windows reflect the brilliance of traditional Islamic architecture.

Best of Al Jubail

At-turaif district.

Nestled in the northwestern edge of Riyadh, Al Turaif is the first seat of the Arabian capital. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the district offers some of the most culturally valuable landmarks in Saudi Arabia. Dominating the skyline of the district is the Salwa Palace, the former residence of the Saudi ruler. Visitors are advised to spend their time exploring the winding alleyways on foot, as they are sure to be stunned by the marvelous mud brick houses.

Located in the vicinity of Mount Al Jubayl, Heet Cave is a natural formation with a small lake inside it. The lake within this cake is famed for its dark green colour which is due to several natural minerals inside it like limestone or anhydrite. The cave has become one of the famous attractions due to its photogenic structure and the beautiful backdrop of Wadi Al Sulay valley.

Best of Al Kharj

Al Rawda Park

Sitting at the very heart of Riyadh City, Al Rawda Park is a popular destination among casual strollers and families. The airy park offers well paved pedestrian walkways that meander across lush green lawns. The open green spaces here are perfect for picnics, although the ornate benches can be great for a casual lounge as well. There are several children’s playgrounds and ballparks scattered across the park.

Al Thumama Desert

Al Thumama is a desert area on the northern edge of Riyadh. It is nothing like a traditional desert, but the villages and wind-altered dunes does give it an ethereal and unique charm. There’s a great many ways to enjoy the desert’s beauty. One can always take a jeep and go off-roading across the dunes. If you’re an adventurer, you can also go dune bashing on bikes, although doing this would require a fair bit of expertise.

Best of Mecca

Museum of Illusions Riyadh

If you feel like adding a little magic to your life, head over to the Museum of Illusions, where even the impossible is made possible. Offering a host of exciting optical tricks and multi-sensory exhibits, the Museum promises to boggle the minds of children and adults alike. From holograms that bring pixels to life to Vortex tunnels that make you feel like a hamster on a wheel, these illusions are designed to tickle and confuse.

Money Museum Riyadh

A treat to those interested in the science of numismatics, the Money Museum at Riyadh details the history of the country in currency. Spread over five separate exhibition halls, the museum displays banknotes and coins dating back to the pre-Islamic eras. Detailed writings and pamphlets offer more information on the period of origin of these currencies.

Best of Medina

Kingdom Centre Tower

The Kingdom Centre in Riyadh is the fifth largest skyscraper in Saudi Arabia. It was developed as a combined project between a US based architecture firm and a Riyadh based architecture firm. The centre was developed by Prince Al Waleed bin Talal and houses some important financial buildings as well as shopping centres. The centre has an all women area and consists of fashion and furnishing stores especially appealing to the youth.

Al Rajhi Grand Mosque

One of Riyadh’s newest additions, the Al Rajhi Grand Mosque is a contemporary Mosque built from the donations of the Al Rajhi family. The largest Mosque in the city, Al Rajhi is known for its architectural beauty. Although entry to the Mosque is limited to those of Islamic faith only, its designs beg a visit by all. At night, when the Mosque is lit up in a series of LED displays, it appears absolutely magical.

Best of Abha

Wadi Namar Waterfall

Nestled on the southern edge of Riyadh, Wadi Namar is a scenic green oasis featuring one of the city’s most popular walkways. Nestled just above the Wadi Lake is the Wadi Namar waterfall, a lovely little fall that keeps visitors coming back to it. The falls are perennial, and with the cascade rumbling down at a steady pace throughout the year. Although the rocks here are not hikable, the falls form a picturesque backdrop to picnics.

Ringing Bird Lake

Riyadh’s Ringing Bird Lake is just as lovely as it sounds. A short drive outside the main city, this oasis is one of the country’s most valued hidden gems. Also known as Lake Park, this green area is frequented by locals and tourists alike. The star attraction of the area, however, is the lake that sits right at the heart of the park. The spotless, clear lake features a series of little cascades, which many refer to as a waterfall.

Jaffali Mosque

Jaffali Mosque is an architectural marvel built in 1987 near the Al-Balad area. This stunning white mosque sits next to a calm lake and is one of the most beautiful in old Jeddah. The mosque's architectural elegance and grandeur exemplify the 20 domes that adorn its roof. The mosque also features a well-organized layout.

People Also Ask About Riyadh

What are the best places to visit in riyadh.

• Ad-Diriyah - Once the capital of Saudi Arabia, Ad-Diriyah was a happening town with great architecture that can still be admired. The odd capital is peppered with attractive mud-brick homes. Turaif, Bujairy Quarter, and the excellent Wadi Hanifa with magnificent waterfalls are the three captivating quarters of the site.
• Kingdom Centre Tower - Uncover the whimsical ambiance of this enthralling tourist attraction which is Saudi’s best and one of the tallest towers. This skyscraper has a soaring height of 900ft with 41 ecstatic floors. The skyscraper overlooks the entire Riyadh cityscape. With luxuriant apartments, grandiose restaurants and hotels, and humongous shopping complexes, an evening at this tower is a must-do activity.
• Masmak Citadel - This enthralling museum and fortress have a humongous gate upon entrance that guards this panoramic heritage site. With exquisite Qurans and other Islamic artifacts on display and intricate architecture, this citadel stands as one of the most beautiful structures worth exploring. This historic center also was the former residence of the Saudis' royal family.
• Heet Cave - Discover the vast mystifying caverns with a plethora of subterranean water bodies and stalagmite formations. The caves provide a beautiful natural background worthy of admiration and are a must-see tourist attraction in Riyadh.

Which are the best things to do in Riyadh?

• Go hiking in Heet Caves - With a plethora of stalagmite and stalactite formations, the Heet caves is a fascinating cave system for a hiking excursion. Tourists can take a guided tour visit or hike through these natural caves on their own. The underground water bodies also feature boating trips as well.
• Quad biking at Al Thumama Desert - Go quad biking at Saudi Arabia's largest and most enthralling desert which stretches up till eternity. With a plethora of activities like picnicking, quad biking, horse and camel riding, skateboarding, tourists will stay entertained for eternity.
• Dine at Kingdom Centre Tower – Relish on sumptuous Arabian delicacies whilst sipping on tasteful drinks admiring the glorious cityscape of Riyadh from the top of the world. Tourists can also rent a room at the four-season hotel and enjoy a pleasant evening in gracious hospitality.
• Evening prayer at King Khalid Grand Mosque - Reaffirm your faith by delving into a serene evening prayer at this grand mosque and admire the lavish art and architecture of this grandiose structure.

Which are the best places to stay in Riyadh?

• The Ritz Carlton - Experience the best of Riyadh’s grandiose architecture at this lodging which has opulent apartments with unparalleled room views, amusing room services, multi-cuisine restaurants, and a myriad of recreational activities.
• Four seasons Hotel - The four-season franchise has disappointed no travel freak ever. Offering the best-reviewed services and luxuriant apartments, spacious accommodations, and room services, a stay at this resort is a must.
• Radisson Blu hotel - Book for a suite at this hotel and enjoy a myriad of recreational activities like a massive pool, sports avenue, multi-cuisine restaurants, fitness centers, and spacious accommodations featuring the finest furnishings and interiors.
• Riyadh Marriott Hotel - Topping the list of luxuriant resorts to spend your vacation in Saudi Arabia, the impressive Riyadh Marriott Hotel is a top-notch choice. With opulent restaurants and spacious accommodation offering impeccable room views, the Riyadh Marriott is an impressive choice.

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16 BEST Things To Do in Riyadh as a Tourist and Like a Local in 2024!

Categories Middle East , Saudi Arabia

From my experience of being a visitor and tourist in Riyadh since the Kingdom opened up to tourism, there are 2 ways to see Riyadh when looking into things to do in Riyadh – as a tourist and as a local .

Whilst there are a few tourist attractions in Riyadh that I do recommend you visit, I suggest, in order to really enjoy your time in Riyadh, you shouldn’t focus on these too much as part of your things to do in Riyadh.

Instead, attend local events that are on, have a walk around a shopping mall and visit areas which are full of cool cafes and restaurants to really experience local Saudi life .

In this Riyadh Travel Blog, I’m going to give you information about Riyadh City, things to do in Riyadh, places to visit in Riyadh and entertainment places in Riyadh so you can plan your Riyadh itinerary no matter whether you are spending 2 days in Riyadh or 1 week in Riyadh! Yallah!

Things To Do in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia and Riyadh in particular is an ever-changing country and city ! New things are being built and culture is changing every day!

Before you go, be sure to read my guide to Riyadh to help you when you arrive, and what to wear as a woman in Saudi Arabia !

The most important thing though is to keep an open mind and expect to be surprised by how comfortable you feel in Riyadh and the activities offered as it might differ from what you think… or have been told!

Things To Do in Riyadh As a Tourist

Here are the top things to do in Riyadh which are aimed at tourists. These are great things to do in your first few days in Riyadh to have an aim of where to go as you get to know the city and culture.

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

1. Skybridge in Kingdom Tower

This is top of the list of the best things to do in Riyadh!

For the best viewpoint in Riyadh, you have to head up the Kingdom Tower to the Skybridge ! The Kingdom Tower is the most famous-looking building in Riyadh, (it looks a bit like a bottle opener which is ironic considering Saudi is a dry country!).

It has a big shopping mall in it and the 360 view from the  Skybridge is beyond impressive making it the top  things to do in Riyadh in my opinion!

The weather in Riyadh is usually clear but often it can be hazy and dusty from sand so try and go when the weather is clear to get the best view of Riyadh!

2. National Museum of Saudi Arabia

This may be the cheapest place to visit in Riyadh at only 10SAR (that’s cheaper than a coffee) and it has to be the best museum in Riyadh because The National Museum of Saudi Arabia gives you so much information on the history of Saudi Arabia.

It’s pretty big over 2 floors so it takes 1-2 hours to walk around and makes for a great place to visit in Riyadh when you’re thinking of where to go in Riyadh.

I would recommend going here on your first day in Riyadh as part of your things to do in Riyadh to help give you an understanding of the history of the Kingdom and the religion of Islam.

3. Masmak Fort

For some more history on Riyadh and Saudi Arabia head to Masmak Fort which is free to enter and one of the really good things to do in Riyadh.

For an easy and budget-friendly way to explore Al Masmak and the surrounding area, check out this Self-Guided Walking Tour for Al Masmak on Riyadh’s History via Viator !

Tours in Riyadh to book to help you see the area with a group and guide:

4. Deera Square

Across the road from Masmak Fort is Deera Square. To tourists, this is also known as ‘chop chop square’ as it’s where public executions were held in Riyadh so it should be on your Riyadh sightseeing list. However, I wouldn’t talk about this too much with locals…

There are lots of streets around Masmak Fort and Deera Square that you can walk around with lots of local shops. I do recommend going here during the day as I felt a little uncomfortable here at sunset when it was dark on my own.

Note- The National Museum of Saudi Arabia and Masmak Fort are close together so I recommend seeing both of these Riyadh attractions at the same time on your Riyadh itinerary.

You will need to get a taxi between them as you can’t walk between them, Riyadh is not pedestrian-friendly!

This is another self-guided audio walking tour you can book to help see and understand Historical places in Riyadh like Deera Square!

5. Old Diriyah

Diriyah is Riyadh’s Historic Neighbourhood in the West of the city and one of the top places to visit in Riyadh and things to do in Riyadh.

When I visited Riyadh, Diriyah has been closed to the public due to the other events happening in Riyadh, so I would recommend checking on Visit Saudi’s website here whether it’s open before going there.

To help you see Old Diriyah, check out this Half-day Ad Diriyah Tour from Riyadh with a local

6. Najd Village

For the best restaurant in Riyadh for tourists, visit Najd Village for Lunch or Dinner to experience the heritage of Saudi Arabia without leaving the city because  Najd Village offers traditional local food and a traditional interior .

• My Related Posts To Help You Visit Riyadh!
• My Complete Riyadh Travel Guide!
• What to Wear in Saudi Arabia as a Foreign Female Tourist.
• How To Get a Sim Card in Riyadh Airport!
• How to do an Edge of the World Tour From Riyadh!

7. Edge of the World & Second Edge of the World

This is by far the best and easiest day trip from Riyadh. As a foreign tourist to Riyadh, you can drive yourself to the Edge of the World ( check out prices for car rental in Riyadh here )  as it is located on Google maps, however, once you leave the main road there is no road, only the desert, so you do have to be careful.

There are many group tours to the Edge of the World like this on Viator , and tours to the Second Edge of the World like this which is a new tour to be run in Riyadh!

For more options, see my full Edge of the World post here !

We met in the North of Riyadh and were all taken into the desert by bus. We visited the Edge of the World and had a few hours walking around and taking photos.

After sunset, we went to the Riyadh Hiking camp where we had a BBQ dinner and were able to chat to everyone on the tour with music and shisha.

We also got to ride quad bikes and visit a cave underground so it was a really fun afternoon and evening trip from Riyadh and definitely needs to be on your list of things to do in Riyadh!

Related Post: Here’s a full post on how to do a day trip to the Edge of the World from Riyadh !

Edge of the World Tour Offered All Week via Viator.

8. Red Sand Dunes

Another easy day trip and one that you will need to join a tour for is a trip into the desert and red sand dunes just outside of Riyadh.

I joined Hike Mania Club.  We met in South Riyadh, got into the buses and drove to the desert! We spent 2 hours before sunset on a walk up and down the dunes before coming back to the camp where we had a BBQ dinner, listened to music and were able to chat and meet other people on the tour.

This is high on the list of my favourite things to do in Riyadh as it was so fun and so good to be in the desert!

Here’s a Red Sand Dunes Tour by Riyadh Trips bookable on Viator!

Prayer Time in Riyadh

Something to note as a tourist to Riyadh, and Saudi Arabia, are the 5 prayer times . The first early morning prayer will not affect you but the other 4 will.

In Riyadh, most shops, cafes and restaurants will close during prayer time meaning you may be waiting outside until they open if you get there once the prayer starts.

The Prayer times do change slightly throughout the year so it’s best to google ‘prayer times in Riyadh’ in advance so you know when they are.

Things To Do in Riyadh Like a Local

Now for the best places to visit in Riyadh that locals visit. These mainly include shopping malls and the best places to eat in Riyadh too so be sure not to miss them and add them to your things to do in Riyadh!

This is a really cool complex in the financial part of Riyadh in the North of the city. There are a few food stalls outside and there is a fancy cinema inside.

I watched a film here at 00:15 which is a popular time to watch a film in Riyadh so make sure you adjust your sleeping schedule to fit in with Saudi time!

The 303 makes for one of the good  things to do in Riyadh at night and be sure to find the really modern-looking mosque in the area too!

Click here for the google maps link

10. The Zone

This is an area with lots of cafes and restaurants in it so you are bound to find something you’ll like. It gets busier in the evenings and weekends especially so it’s good to visit then to see what Saudis do on the weekend.

Greem Cafe is a Korean Cafe with a super cool 2D design that I recommend you visit and add to your list of things to do in Riyadh!

Click here for the Google maps location

11. The Boulevard Riyadh

Not to be confused with The Boulevard which is part of the Riyadh Season, this is an area with some nice restaurants and cafes and another place to observe local life all day and all night.

For a cool place for coffee visit Minyums !

Click here for the Google Maps link

12. Backyard

Another strip with lots of cool cafes, Kanakah Cafe is cool and decorated really nicely.

A few years ago it was a female-only cafe but has recently changed so men can visit and it has a nice atmosphere.

I know all of these cafes may not seem like fun things to do in Riyadh but remember that because Saudi is a dry country, instead of bars people spend a lot of time in cafes drinking coffee , so they are good places to visit in Riyadh to chill, see local life and start a conversation with a local!

13. Riyadh Park Mall

Riyadh has a lot of shopping malls, most of the malls in Riyadh have rides and games in them making them some of the good family places to visit in Riyadh and places to visit in Riyadh with children.

Riyadh Park Mall is the most impressive shopping mall in Riyadh so if you only go to one, you should visit here.

14. Diplomatic Quarter

Also known as the DQ, the Diplomatic Quarter is one of the top things to do in Riyadh for ex-pats and places to visit for ex-pats in Riyadh as it used to be an area where only ex-pats lived.

Here is my full blog post on how to visit the DQ in Riyadh and things to do in the Diplomatic Quarter !

Now, it has all of the embassies inside and Saudis can live in the DQ too. The best thing about visit the DQ in Riyadh is that you can walk around it without the fear of being run over by a car !

Riyadh is not a pedestrian-friendly city so it’s great walking around the streets in the DQ and the walking trails in the Diplomatic Quarter and the walking trails in the Diplomatic Quarter are great if you need some exercise or want to go for a run.

You can easily spend a full afternoon here, it’s such a pretty area and there are cafes and restaurants too so you can stay for lunch and dinner. In my opinion, this is the best things to do in Riyadh for tourists!

15. Riyadh Season

During the Winter and into the start of Spring, Riyadh Season is on which includes Winter Wonderland, The Boulevard and many other events around the city.

These are events that have been set up for Saudi locals from Riyadh and other parts of Saudi to attend but also to attract foreign visitors to the Kingdom by offering more entertainment places in Riyadh and fun things to do in Riyadh.

During the Summer, Riyadh will have fewer events happening because the weather gets extremely hot and locals stay inside more.

But Saudi Arabia seems to be focused on providing as much entertainment in Saudi Arabia as possible so it is worth downloading the Riyadh Season app to check what is happening and speak to some locals about what entertainment in Riyadh is on, no matter when you visit.

Did you know that up until about 2017 there were no cinemas in Saudi Arabia?!

Now that there are, going to the cinema is a popular activity and one of the popular things to do in Riyadh for locals, especially at night, and late at night.

You may not find this interesting, but like going to the mall and going to coffee shops, this is what Saudi’s do in Riyadh and if you want to experience the best of Riyadh, I suggest you join in on activities like this too!

Day Trips from Riyadh

What I really loved doing in Riyadh is heading out of the city on an organised tour from Riyadh.

I was surprised to see that most of the people on the 2 day tours from Riyadh that I did were Saudi but I really liked this because I was able to meet a lot of local people and it felt like a local experience, but as a foreign tourist in Riyadh, I was still welcomed onto the tour and I did meet some other international tourists who were travelling around Saudi Arabia too!

Note that generally, these organised group tours from Riyadh only run on the weekend (which is Friday and Saturday!) when locals are off work. If you want to go on a day trip from Riyadh during the week, you will need to book onto a tour like this:

To SEE my time in Riyadh, have a look at this YouTube video and the  others on my channel here!

This will give you enough things to do in Riyadh to add to your Riyadh itinerary.

• For more of my blog posts from Saudi Arabia and the region see:
• My Detailed Riyadh Travel & City Guide!
• How To Travel Saudi Arabia on a Budget!
• Visiting Medina as a Non-Muslim.
• A Tourists Guide to Old Jeddah!
• ALL MY SAUDI ARABIA BLOG POSTS
• How To Spend a Qatar Stopover & Spend 1 Day in Doha!
• Doha Itinerary & Guide | How To Spend 3 Days in Doha with TIPS!
• What To Wear in Qatar & Qatar Dress Code for Tourists!

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11 Best Places to Visit in Riyadh

If you are visiting Saudi Arabia, you have to have Riyadh on your destination list to explore. Being the capital city of the country, The City is full of beautiful and unique attractions and exciting activities and an ample of entertainment opportunities .

So what to explore when you are in Riyadh? Here are 11 top places to visit in Riyadh.

01 Historical Diriyah

Considered as the birthplace of Saudi Arabia, Historical Diriyah is the historical home of the Saudi state . The area is known for it's Well-Preserved ruins and monuments and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will show you the history of the country. If you are interested in the history of Saudi Arabia, this is one of the top places to visit in Riyadh.

02 Riyadh Desert

The Golden desert of Riyadh is one of the top attractions in Riyadh that many tourists are eager to explore. From Desert adventures to cultural exploration you will find a number of tours to choose from to explore the desert in your own style.

03 Mamlaka Tower

Being one of the most iconic landmarks of Riyadh and Saudi Arabia Mamlaka tower is a adds its unique beauty to the Riyadh skyline. This modern construction is an architectural spectacle that oozes with luxury. With a Shopping mall, fine restaurants and a hotel, the tower also offers you a panoramic view of the surrounding city . Make sure to visit the place at night to see all the illuminating lights of the tower and of the city.

04 Sky Observation Bridgee

Kingdom center is one of the best places to visit in Riyadh if you are a fan of mind-blowing scenery. However, this is not for the faint-hearted as the high-speed lift that will take you to the sky bridge at 180km/h speed. Witness the lit city from the 99th-floor the Sky Bridge . This is one of the most exciting attractions you can’t afford to miss during your visit to Riyadh.

05 The Al Rajhi Grand Mosque

Being one of the most spectacular landmarks and attractions of Riyadh, Al Rajhi Grand Mosque should be on your things-to-do list in Riyadh. Built with a donation of the Al Rajhi family, The mosque is the Largest mosque in the city that is also considered as one of the Most significant Islamic architectural marvels of the modern era . A visit to the place will offer you a sneak peek into the modern Muslim faith of the city.

06 The King Fahd National Library

Adding a unique architectural flair to the Riyadh cityscapes, The King Fahd National Library is one of the Must visit places in Riyadh for you if you are interested in modern architecture. The modern building comprised of unique cubic shapes is eye-catchy and mesmerizing and provide the Best backdrop for your Instagram photo so you could keep your travel memories of Riyadh with you forever.

07 The National Museum

If you are interested in looking deep into the history of Saudi Arabia and Riyadh, the national museum is one of the best places to start your exploration with, during your visit to Riyadh. Discover the fascinating stories of the past, explore the Islamic culture and the story of the constructions of modern Saudi Arabia and learn more about the country and its culture. Appreciate the artefacts and arts and enjoy an insightful and educational historical tour with your family and friends.

08 National Museum Park

After your tour to the national museum, make sure to enjoy some peaceful time in the national museum park before you leave. With Beautiful fountains and landscapes, the place is ideal for a short walk to disconnect from the busyness of attractions.

09 Hall of King Abdulaziz

For those who are history buffs, this is another must visit attraction in Riyadh that will offer you an ample of opportunities to discover the great history of Saudi Arabia. This is unique museum that will take you through the whole history of the country step by step as you take you each step . Made of huge halls the place is known for its unique way to display of the history . Each hall is dedicated to a specific period of Saudi history and has laid in chronological order.

10 Murabba Palace

If visit an Arabic palace was always on your bucket list visit to the Murraba place should be one of your top things to do when you are preparing your places to visit list in Riyadh. The grand palace is the former home as well as the court of King Abdul Aziz , who considered as the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. The regal palace is a captivating landmark that showcases the life of royalties of Saudi .

11 Dira Souq

No matter how many malls you get to explore, nothing is more interesting than exploring a traditional market. Riyadh's Souk Al-Zal is the oldest souks in town that will give you glimpse into the traditional Saudi culture than no shopping mall can ever offer you. The souk has everything from local crafts, carpets, footwear, traditional outfit to antiques and artefacts that will add incredible travel moments to your holiday in Riyadh.

Do you have plans to visit Riyadh and want to explore these amazing places?

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15 Best Tourist Places In Riyadh : Mosques, Malls, And Skyscrapers

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, has transformed from a tiny tribal settlement into one of the Middle East’s wealthiest and busiest cities over the years. Growing into an attractive destination for tourists around the world, there are many incredible places to visit in Riyadh that excite people with varied interests. In this blog, we look at the best tourist places in Riyadh . Tourist can pick from a host of historical, cultural and religious places to visit in Riyadh.

Riyadh Tourism

Riyadh is the largest and most populous city in Saudi Arabia. It is situated in the heartland of the Arabian Peninsula, and is one of the wealthiest cities in the world. There are some amazing tourist places in Riyadh, ranging from several historical and cultural attractions to lovely parks and huge shopping malls to towering skyscrapers and fascinating museums. With so many famous places in Riyadh, the city  offers a vibrant glimpse of the country’s rich history, heritage, and culture.

Suggested Read: 10 Largest Cities In Saudi Arabia That Are Totally Worth A Visit

Most religious places to visit in Riyadh

1. al rajhi grand mosque – the largest mosque in riyadh.

Al Rajhi Grand Mosque is one of the city’s most prominent religious spots. It is a beautiful mosque that is considered as an incredible architectural marvel. It serves as a place of worship for Muslims as well as a meeting spot for social events and community gatherings. Illuminated with colourful lights, Al Rajhi Grand Mosque offers a spectacular view at night.

2. Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque – A significant Islamic institution

Popularly known as the Grand Mosque of Riyadh , Imam Turki bin Abdullah Mosque is listed amongst one of Saudi Arabia’s largest mosques. Sprawled across an area of 16,800 sq m, it is capable of seating 17,000 devotees at a time. Home to huge separate libraries for men and women, the mosque is a wonderful architectural wonder. Built with brown Arriyadh limestone and white marble, the mosque is beautifully lit up at night.

3. King Khalid Grand Mosque – An architectural and religious gem

Featuring striking architecture and pristine interiors, King Khalid Grand Mosque is counted amongst the top religious places in Riyadh. It serves as a spiritual sanctuary for all devotees and has a serene atmosphere that promotes the feeling of peace and unity amongst the worshippers gathered here.

Best historical places in Riyadh

4. ad-diriyah – one of the most prominent historical places in riyadh.

The historical town of Ad-Diriyah is split into two parts by a valley called Wadi Hanifa and additionally divided into several quarters. Formerly, it served as the home to the Saudi Royal family. Now, the ruins of the ancient city are divided into three districts – Ghusaibah, Bujairi, and Turaif. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO , the town is situated on the top of hills overlooking the valley. Ad-Diriyah is home to a number of must-visit cultural attractions including Diriyah Museum and Al-Zawihra Mosque. It is also dotted with numerous quaint cafes and fascinating craft shops.

5. Masmak Citadel – A cultural & heritage site in Riyadh

Featuring thick walls and four watchtowers, this clay and mud brick fort radiates the royal culture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is situated in the heart of Riyadh. It was built in 1865 and has played a major role in Saudi Arabia’s storied history. In the modern times, the building serves as a museum and hosts some fascinating exhibitions including historical maps and photographs, a myriad of historical artefacts and audiovisual presentations.

Entry Fee : Masmak Citadel is open for all visitors and does not charge an entry fee.

Entry Timings:

Men are allowed to visit from 8 am-2:30 pm and 4 pm-9 pm on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays as well as 9 am-12 pm on Saturdays.

Women and families can visit from 8 am-2:30 pm and 4 pm-9 pm on Mondays and Wednesdays as well as from 4 pm-7:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

6. The National Museum – One of the most popular tourist places in Riyadh

The National Museum is lined with fascinating exhibits, almost all of which are available in English. The museum has many mini theatres and video presentations that offer virtual tours of Madain Saleh and present re-enactments of the battle of Madina led by Prophet Mohammed .

Opening hours : The museum is open for visitors from 8 am-8 pm from Mondays to Saturdays and from 8 am-2 pm on Sundays.

7. King Abdulaziz Historical Centre – For the love of history

King Abdulaziz Historical Centre is situated near the National Museum and is another one of the famous places in Riyadh. It is sprawled across a large area and houses several exhibitions that cover a variety of topics like the history of Islam, relationship of man with the universe, modern and ancient Arabian Peninsula, history of Saudi Arabia and history of other Arab civilisations.

Opening hours : It is open for visitors from 8 am-8 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 4 pm-8 pm on Fridays and 8 am-2 pm on Sundays.

Must-See skyscrapers in Riyadh

8. kingdom centre tower – one of the top tourist places in riyadh.

With a 56-metre-long sky bridge on the top, this 42-storey skyscraper is a major highlight of the Riyadh sightseeing scene. This building is home to a luxurious shopping mall, sprawling apartments, several boutiques, popular brands and Four Seasons Hotel, Riyadh . Known for offering a breathtaking god’s eye view of the entire city , it is a prime example of the city’s magnificent modern architecture.

9. Al Faisaliyah Centre – Saudi Arabia’s fourth-tallest building

Another gem in the city’s gorgeous skyline, Al Faisaliyah Centre is a 267-metre-tall skyscraper featuring 44 floors. It was the first skyscraper built in Saudi Arabia and features striking architecture. It is particularly known for its lobby’s monumental stained glass wall.

Situated in the business district of Riyadh, the commercial skyscraper is home to a luxurious shopping mall, which houses numerous major brands in the world.

Timings : Al Faisaliyah Centre stays open from 11 am to 11 pm.

Fun places to visit in Riyadh with family

10. edge of the world – a rocky wonder.

Any trip to Riyadh cannot be considered complete without a visit to this incredible geological wonder that lies in the rocky desert northwest of the city. Also known as Jebel Fihrayn , it is an excellent destination for an overnight camping trip and one of the most remarkable places to visit in Riyadh. Forming part of the majestic Tuwaiq cliffs , it is specially known for the awe-inspiring view it offers.

11. World Sights Park – The park of miniatures

Serving as another major stop in any Riyadh sightseeing tour, World Sights Park houses miniature replicas of some of the most popular landmarks worldwide such as the Great Wall of China, Eiffel Tower and Taj Mahal. It also holds the miniature replicas of a few Saudi landmarks like the two holy mosques – Prophet’s Mosque in Madina and Al-Masjid al-Haram in Makkah .

Opening days & hours : It stays open between 4 pm and 12 am from Tuesdays to Sundays.

12. Riyadh Zoo – For a family outing

Stretched over an area of 55 acres, Riyadh Zoo is inhabited by more than 150 exotic animals including reptiles, amphibians and birds as well as a few endangered species. It is situated in the al-Malazz district of Riyadh. The zoo was founded as a private menagerie for King Saud in 1957 and was opened to the public in 1987. It is known for being one of the oldest and largest zoos in Saudi Arabia .

Riyadh Zoo Timings : It stays open between 11 am and 5 pm from Mondays to Saturdays.

Best shopping malls in Riyadh

13. al nakheel mall – the biggest mall in riyadh.

Drawing in over 200,000 people every week, Al Nakheel Mall is built over a vast area and is known for being the city’s biggest shopping mall . It boasts an innovative design and is home to a number of international brands such as LC Waikiki, ZARA, Lefties, Kipling, Karaca, Nespresso, Bershka and Aldo. It also houses interesting theme parks like Sparquez and Billy Beaez. The mall also offers a myriad of dining options from Subway and McDonald’s to many fine dining restaurants.

Entry Timings : It stays open from 9:30 am-11 pm from Saturdays to Thursdays and 2 pm-11 pm on Fridays.

14. Riyadh Gallery Mall – An amalgamation of luxury and style

Riyadh Gallery Mall is one of the best places to visit in Riyadh for some retail therapy. It has a luxurious setting, stylish interiors and an array of international brands. Home to a myriad of high-end fashion brands, this is the go-to shopping destination for anyone looking to buy some trendy outfits. Entry Timings : It is open to visitors from 9 am-12 am from Saturdays to Thursdays and 2 pm- 12am on Fridays.

15. Panorama Mall – In downtown Riyadh

Panorama Mall is the place to go for anyone who is looking for both shopping and fun. It flaunts exclusive interiors and striking architecture, and also houses a wide range of fashion brands. It is home to the city’s finest retail shops, entertainment facilities, supermarkets and restaurants. It also has a modern cinema lounge for enjoying the latest movie shows.

Entry Timings : It is open to visitors from 9 am-12 am from Saturdays to Thursdays and 2 pm-12 am on Fridays.

Places to visit in Riyadh for free

There are many places to visit in Riyadh for free. These places do not have an entry charge however there might be some charge for activities upon entering. All mosques and malls in the city can be visited for free. Similarly, popular natural spots and streets like Tahlia Street and Wadi Namar are famous landmarks in Riyadh that you can visit for free.

Visit these incredible tourist places in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to fully enjoy the trip to one of the most prosperous cities in the world.

Suggested Read: Performing Umrah From Masjid e Aisha: History And Importance

Tourist places in Riyadh FAQs

What are the top attractions to visit in riyadh.

The top attractions to visit in Riyadh are: Kingdom Centre Tower, National Museum, Al Masmak Fortress, Al Nakheel Mall, Al Rajhi Grand Mosque

What are the best outdoor activities in Riyadh?

The best outdoor activities in Riyadh according to travellers are: King Abdullah Park, Wadi Hanifa, Salam Park, Riyadh Zoo, Wadi Namar

What are the best day trips from Riyadh?

The best day trips from Riyadh according to travellers are: Red sand Riyadh Tour, Full Day Al-Qara Hill & Jawatha AlAhsaa Tour, Edge Of The World Tour

What are the most popular things to do in Riyadh with children?

The most popular things to do in Riyadh with children according to travellers are: Al Masmak Fortress, Al Nakheel Mall, National Museum, Kingdom Centre Tower, King Abdullah Park

My words find inspiration in the most mundane of the things — beads of a rosary, a rehal by the window, rings of incense smoke, and fallen tree leaves. When not dreaming, I crochet them into stories of times, places, & people.

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Information for Travellers During COVID-19

• 2 doses of Pfizer BioNTech
• 2 doses of Oxford AstraZeneca
• 2 doses of Moderna
• 1 dose of Johnson and Johnson
• A visitor must enter their immunization data into the Saudi vaccination registration system “Muqeem” before arrival into Saudi Arabia. The vaccination registration website address is: https://muqeem.sa/#/vaccine-registration/home .
• Visitors arriving in Saudi Arabia are also required to provide a negative PCR COVID-19 test taken no more than 72 hours before departure and an approved paper vaccination certificate, issued by the official health authorities in the issuing country.
• Visitors are advised to check the current entry requirements with their chosen airline before purchasing a ticket.