Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia. While entertainment options are limited, there are interesting places to visit, including historic landmarks and modern towers. The climate is mostly very hot, but it becomes pleasantly moderate in winter. The only reliable transport is by car, so you’ll need to rely on cabs or rent a car. Prices in Riyadh are generally lower than in many other big cities, but most people visit for business.
Riyadh is the political and administrative center of Saudi Arabia, housing the Saudi Royal Court and the Council of Ministers. It is an economic hub, home to many banks, major companies, and the King Abdullah Financial District, one of the world's largest financial centers. The city is rapidly growing in population, with many immigrants.
Riyadh is divided into 15 municipal districts, managed by the Municipality of Riyadh and the Royal Commission for Riyadh. Riyadh has been designated a global city.
This former fort, built from mud and clay bricks, features four corner turrets that once served as watchtowers. The walls are exceptionally thick, designed to defend the city in battle. Today, it is a museum located in the old quarter at the heart of Riyadh. The museum's collections include antique weapons, agricultural tools, and historical costumes.
One of the most important museums in the country, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia documents the history, archaeology, and culture of the Kingdom in several collections. Objects on display include documents, antique tools, weapons, sculptures and other artwork, along with mineral and rock samples, and much more.
Once the home of the Saudi royal family, the town of Diriyah is located about 16 miles northwest of Riyadh. The historic area of the town comprises 2 main sections and numerous neighborhoods. Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace and the old city, and shop at the Bujairy marketplace, or dine at the restaurants.Riyadh
Masmak Fort
National Museum
Diriyah Gate
Useful information
In Saudi Arabia the power sockets are of type A, B, C and G. The standard voltage is 110 / 220 V and the standard frequency is 60 Hz.
A valid passport for a minimum of 6 months taking into consideration the agreements between Saudi Arabia and the other countries regarding the passport validation (example: US citizens). The tourist coming to Saudi Arabia must not be under the age of (18) unless accompanied by a guardian. For Consulate Visa, please contact the nearest Saudi Arabia Embassy for any additional requirements or documentation.
Roads in Saudi Arabia vary from eight-laned roads to small two-lane roads in rural areas. The city highways and other major highways are well maintained, especially the roads in the capital Riyadh. Similarly, Saudi Arabia has a well development sea transport network developed primarily to support the transport of petrochemicals.
Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia, and the mother tongue for most of Saudi’s natives. The classical version of Arabic is hardly used in regular conversations and is mainly found in the Quran and other classical works, poetry, and is used by religious scholars. Classical Arabian is considered an exclusive written language rather than a spoken one. Modern Standard Arabic is the most widely spoken version which is used in media, schools as a second foreign language, and published works.
