With its vast expanse of land, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has a rich and diverse culture.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia also boasts one of the largest oil reserves in the world. It's estimated that the country holds more than 1 trillion barrels of crude oil, making it the second-largest producer of oil in the world.
The country is also known for its impressive economic achievements. Its gross domestic product (GDP) grew by more than 9 percent over the past decade. In 2016, the nation posted a budget surplus of $98 billion through income taxes, customs duties, value-added tax, and other revenues.
Saudi Arabia Travel Guide
Riyadh is such an intriguing place that it's easy to see why so many people are fascinated by this beautiful city. It's steeped in history, boasting old traditions, but still feels warm and welcoming to tourists. There are endless sights to explore here, from mosques and museums to shopping malls and heritage sites.
In addition to these attractions, there's no shortage of things to do in Riyadh. You can take a day trip out of the capital to experience a desert safari or go hiking in Al Wajh Mountain, all while admiring stunning city views. If you want to get even closer to nature, head to Madain Saleh National Park, where you can witness wildlife in their natural habitat or even spot Arabian leopards.
When visiting this part of the world, make sure you don't miss the opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine. After experiencing the delicious food in our restaurant review, you'll be eager to cook yourself something tasty at home. From hummus to falafel to kebabs, we're confident that your taste buds will thank us.
If you love sports, you will feel at home during your visit to Riyadh. You should check out Al Oud Stadium, home to the Riyadh Kings Football Club. This stadium was built in 2013 and has a capacity of 12,000 spectators. While you're in town, don't forget to catch a game!
If you'd like to try a new sport, check out our list of the best swimming pools in Riyadh. They offer open-air and indoor pools, so you can find one that suits your needs.
As you plan your trip around Riyadh, visit King Fahd's Fountain. This fountain is located near the center of the city and offers excellent views of the area. Take a break from exploring and refresh yourself under the shade of the trees on the banks of the fountain.
Wherever you decide to go, you're bound to have a fun time exploring Riyadh. From parks and gardens to museums and palaces, this city has everything you could ever need for a family vacation.
How to Get Around Riyadh
Getting around Riyadh isn't difficult, mainly if you use public transportation. The metro system is convenient, efficient, and inexpensive. A single ride costs only 10 riyals (USD 2.40). Taxis are another option; they're available 24 hours a day and cost about 25 riyals per kilometer.
You'll likely spend most of your time walking throughout the city, so comfortable shoes are essential. Be prepared for hot weather, as temperatures can reach up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (ca. 49 °C).
What To Do In Riyadh
1) Visit the King Abdulaziz Historical Center
The King Abdulaziz Historical Center is a museum dedicated to the life of the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. The complex includes a number of buildings, including the Museum of Heritage and Information Technology, which contains exhibits relating to the country's history.
2) Explore the Medina
Riyadh's historic district is called the Medina. It's an ancient settlement that dates back more than 1,400 years. Today it's a maze of narrow streets lined with shops, restaurants, spice markets, and mosques. The heart of Medina is the Prophet's Mosque, also known as Masjid al-Nabi (Prophet's mosque), which marks the burial place of Muhammad.
3) Go hiking in Al Wajh Mountains
Al Wajh Mountain is a popular destination for hikers who want to escape the city's heat. There are several trails through the mountains, many of them leading to waterfalls. Bring plenty of drinking water since some areas aren't easily accessible.
4) See Wildlife in Madain Saleh National Park
Madain Saleh National Park is home to over 200 birds, including ostriches, eagles, vultures, and flamingos. It's also a good spot for seeing gazelles, monkeys, and other animals.
5) Enjoy a Day at the Beach
There are two beaches in Riyadh: Jeddah Beach and Khalid Lagoon. Both offer beautiful views of the Red Sea and the nearby mountains. You can rent beach chairs or umbrellas, play volleyball, or just relax and enjoy the sun.
Do you want to travel to Saudi Arabia?
If you want to take this trip to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, you need to get your Saudi Arabia Tourist e-Visa. Here you will know what this document is about, and you will have an easy time filling out the application.
