6 Ways to Experience the Rich Heritage and Modernity of Riyadh

Riyadh offers a captivating mix of historic souqs, a thriving contemporary art scene, sleek modern architecture, ancient fortresses, and premium shopping experiences. Here’s our guide to the must-visit spots.

Explore Souq Al Zal

As the city's largest and oldest bazaar, Souq Al Zal is alive with the vibrant colors, rich aromas, and diverse flavors that have shaped Arabic culture over the years. While its name translates to “rug market,” Souq Al Zal boasts a wide array of crafts, from ceremonial swords to perfumes and, naturally, numerous handwoven tapestries. This souk serves as a genuine shopping hub for locals, featuring its own food court, and the merchants are friendly and used to interacting with English-speaking visitors. It’s an excellent opportunity for travelers to connect with Saudis, ideally accompanied by the warm tradition of serving classic, cardamom-spiced Saudi coffee.

Tour Masmak Fortress

As one of the most significant historical sites in Saudi Arabia, Masmak Fortress provides an insightful introduction for travelers keen on understanding the nation's origins. This fortress was a pivotal site in the struggle for Saudi unification, making it a profound representation of Saudi identity. Transformed into a museum in the 1990s as part of the expansive King Abdulaziz Historical Centre, Masmak Fortress showcases historical artifacts and informative films.

Visit the Saudi National Museum

Situated just over a mile north of Masmak Fortress and part of the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre, connected by a sprawling network of public gardens, the Saudi National Museum signifies a new chapter in the city’s story, having been completed in 1999. Its design mirrors the vast red sand dunes that stretch beyond the city, housing thousands of artifacts that trace the history of the Arabian Peninsula from ancient times to the present. Consequently, the museum is an excellent choice for families and educational trips. Visitors should also check the numerous events happening in National Museum Park and across the city from October to March each year, coinciding with Riyadh Season.

Stepping back into the future in Diriyah

Few places in the capital embody the juxtaposition of past and future quite like Diriyah, making it a must-visit for newcomers to Riyadh. This area, situated around a natural oasis, was once the heart of the first Saudi capital, and it remains impressively well-preserved.

As one of the six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, At-Turaif District is brimming with largely intact mud brick ruins that reveal its rich history, highlighted by the impressive Salwa Palace. Inside, visitors can immerse themselves in the past at the Diriyah Museum, and then enjoy a meal at one of the twenty international restaurants overlooking the ruins at Bujairi Terrace. With numerous upcoming attractions, including art galleries and an engaging Period Village, the future of Diriyah looks incredibly promising.

Take in the breathtaking view from the Skybridge at Kingdom Center

The Kingdom Center, easily recognizable for its distinctive inverted archway, is one of Riyadh’s most iconic buildings, featuring the remarkable Skybridge that soars nearly a thousand feet above the city. Inside, visitors can explore 150 retail shops, dine at world-class restaurants, enjoy films at VOX Cinemas, and end the day with some of the most stunning sunset views the city has to offer.

Discover the ultimate representation of Saudi style

As the first skyscraper in Saudi Arabia, Al Faisaliah Tower offers breathtaking views that rival those from the Kingdom Center. For a memorable dining experience, the Mandarin Oriental’s Globe Restaurant is perhaps the finest location in the city. Nestled in a suspended geodesic dome at the top of the Tower, the Globe delivers an extraordinary culinary adventure, featuring European-inspired tasting menus, an extensive selection of dry-aged imported steaks, and a carefully crafted mocktail list.

However, The Globe is just one of the exceptional dining venues within the Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, which boasts six restaurants and two designer bars, including a cigar lounge at the dome's pinnacle. Guests can also maintain luxury by staying in one of the hotel’s five-star suites. Beyond the indoor pool, steam room, and spa, options for rooms with private spa and fitness areas, offices, and more are available, each showcasing the hotel’s striking, modern, distinctly Arabic style alongside breathtaking city views.