Diriyah – Birthplace of the Saudi State

Step Back in Time at At-Turaif

Just northwest of central Riyadh lies Diriyah, the historic home of the Al Saud family and the birthplace of the first Saudi state. The At-Turaif district, built in traditional Najdi mudbrick architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important places to visit near Riyadh.

Here you can:

• Walk through narrow alleyways and courtyards restored with great care

• See old palaces and defensive towers overlooking the valley

• Learn about the early history of the Kingdom in interactive museums

It’s a perfect place to understand where modern Saudi Arabia began.

Bujairi Terrace – Dining With a View

Across the valley from At-Turaif is Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah’s elegant dining area. It combines:

• Restaurants from famous international and local brands

• Outdoor terraces with beautiful views over the illuminated old city

• A relaxed atmosphere that still feels very upscale

You can enjoy modern Saudi dishes, Middle Eastern classics, or international cuisine, all while looking at one of Riyadh’s most iconic heritage views.

JAX District – Riyadh’s Creative Hub

A short walk or drive from Bujairi, the JAX District has become a creative playground for artists and designers. Old warehouses have been transformed into:

• Art galleries and design studios

• Concept stores and cafés

• Spaces for exhibitions, pop-ups, and cultural events

If you love photography, street art, or contemporary design, JAX should be on your Discover Riyadh list.

Edge of the World – Riyadh’s Most Dramatic View

Stand on the Rim of an Ancient Sea

One of the most talked-about natural attractions near Riyadh is Jebel Fihrayn, widely known as the Edge of the World. Dramatic limestone cliffs drop sharply into a seemingly endless plain, creating one of the most unique landscapes in Saudi Arabia.

When you stand at the edge, the horizon looks like it never ends – perfect for anyone who loves nature, open spaces, and a bit of adrenaline.

When and How to Visit

• Best time: late afternoon until sunset, or very early in the morning

• Activities: hiking, photography, enjoying picnics, stargazing, or quiet time away from the city

• Who it suits: groups of friends, families with older children, solo travelers, and photography enthusiasts

Many visitors choose to go with an organized tour or experienced driver, especially if they are new to off-road desert driving.

Al Masmak Palace – Fortress of a New Era

In the center of old Riyadh stands Al Masmak Palace, a clay and mudbrick fortress that played a key role in the unification of the Kingdom.

A Turning Point in History

In 1902, King Abdulaziz led a daring raid on Al Masmak to recapture Riyadh, a moment which became a symbol of the modern Saudi state’s beginning. The fortress walls, heavy wooden gate, and tall watchtowers still stand as reminders of that day.

Inside, you’ll find:

• Historical exhibits and scale models

• Maps and archival photos

• Rooms displaying weapons, clothing and tools from the era

• A short film explaining the story of the fortress and the city

It’s an essential stop for anyone who wants to understand how Riyadh transformed from a fortified town into a major capital.

Souk Al-Zal – A Market Full of Stories

If you enjoy traditional markets, Souk Al-Zal is one of the oldest and most atmospheric places to visit in Riyadh.

What You’ll Find

Walking through its lanes, you’ll see:

• Hand-woven carpets and textiles

• Incense, oud, and perfume oils

• Antique items, daggers, coffee sets, and other collectibles

• Bisht cloaks, abayas and traditional clothing

Every stall feels like a small museum, and bargaining (politely!) is part of the experience.

Taste Local Flavors

Around the souk you can also try:

• Arabic coffee and dates

• Traditional Saudi sweets

• Simple local snacks and dishes

It’s a great area to combine shopping, photography, and a casual food stop in one visit.

Culture & Heritage – Museums, Art and Living Traditions

Riyadh is not only about skyscrapers and shopping malls. The city puts a big emphasis on culture, museums and the arts.

Museums & Heritage Spaces

Depending on your schedule, you can explore:

• National-level museums that tell the story of Saudi Arabia

• Heritage centers inside historic palaces and restored buildings

• Small galleries and cultural houses in different neighborhoods

Exhibits often cover archaeology, the story of unification, local traditions, and the Kingdom’s rapid modern development.

Contemporary Art & Creative Spaces

Beyond classical heritage, Riyadh has a growing contemporary art scene:

• Galleries showcasing Saudi and international artists

• Installations and public art in new districts

• Temporary exhibitions as part of festivals and seasons

For travelers, this means you can experience both old and new Saudi identity in a single trip.

Taste of Riyadh – From Najdi Dishes to Global Cuisine

Food is one of the best ways to discover any city, and Riyadh is no exception.

Traditional Flavors

Try classic Saudi and Najdi dishes such as:

• Slow-cooked rice and meat dishes

• Rich stews and grilled meats

• Fresh bread served with dips, dates and coffee

You’ll find traditional restaurants in heritage districts, modern malls and dedicated dining areas.

International Choices

Riyadh’s restaurant scene also includes:

• High-end international brands

• Casual cafés and breakfast spots

• Trendy fusion restaurants and dessert bars

Whether you want a local breakfast, a fine-dining dinner or a quick coffee before your flight, you’ll never run out of choices.

Coffee Culture

Saudi Arabia has a deep coffee tradition, and Riyadh reflects it everywhere:

• Specialty coffee shops with modern roasts

• Traditional Arabic coffee served with dates

• Hotel lounges, mall cafés, and small neighborhood spots

Coffee is not just a drink – it’s a symbol of hospitality and welcome.

Desert Adventures Around Riyadh

Beyond the city limits, the landscape turns into desert, cliffs, wadis and dunes. Depending on the season and your interests, you can:

• Hike rocky hills and canyons

• Go dune-bashing or quad-biking with experienced guides

• Camp under the stars with traditional Saudi setups

• Ride camels or horses in desert settings

Always check weather conditions, go with reputable operators, and carry enough water and sun protection – safety first.

Hafawah – The Warmth of Saudi Hospitality

One of the things visitors remember most about Saudi Arabia is the genuine kindness of the people. Hospitality, known as Hafawah, is deeply rooted in Saudi culture.

Expect:

• Invitations to share Arabic coffee and dates

• Help and directions when you look lost

• A welcoming attitude in hotels, shops, and restaurants

For travelers, this makes Riyadh feel both exciting and surprisingly personal.

Events & Seasons – Riyadh All Year Round

Riyadh is no longer a “quiet only-business” city. Throughout the year, it hosts major festivals and events that attract visitors from around the world.

Riyadh Season

During Riyadh Season, different zones across the city transform into themed worlds with:

• Concerts and live shows

• Amusement rides and attractions

• International food concepts and pop-ups

• Art installations and light shows

Each edition brings new themes and surprises, turning the city into a huge open-air entertainment park.

Diriyah Season

Diriyah Season focuses on the historic area of Diriyah, combining:

• Cultural performances and heritage shows

• Fine dining and casual street food

• Sports events or outdoor experiences

It’s the perfect opportunity to see history, food and entertainment in one place.

Esports & Global Competitions

Riyadh has also become a major stage for gaming and esports events, with:

• Large international tournaments

• Live crowds, stages and music

• Cosplay, fan zones and interactive experiences

Together with other sports, MotoGP, boxing, football and more, these events help position Riyadh as a global entertainment hub.

Beyond the Capital – Explore More of Saudi Arabia

Riyadh is a fantastic starting point, but Saudi Arabia has many other destinations worth exploring: coastal cities, mountain towns, archaeological sites and more.

If you’d like to learn about:

• Other Saudi regions and cities

• National parks, beaches and historical sites

• Upcoming festivals and travel ideas

you should always check the official tourism platform.