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Hello!
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a city with a rich history and dynamic development. As the political and economic center of the country, it offers many interesting places to see. In this article, we take a look at Riyadh’s top attractions, which will give you a better understanding of both the modern face of the city and its traditional origins. You will learn what to see when planning a visit to this key point of the Arabian Peninsula.
Ready to explore Riyadh? We invite you to learn more about what to see!
If you want to know our first impressions of the trip to Saudi Arabia and immerse yourself in this amazing adventure, click here ✨ First Impressions of Saudi Arabia – don’t miss out!
Al-Dira Square (Chop Chop Square)
Al-Dira Square is the historic center of Riyadh, known for its proximity to important monuments. The square is surrounded by traditional buildings, and there are lively souks in the area. These are local markets where you can buy handicrafts, spices and souvenirs related to regional culture.
The Al-Dira Square is an important symbol of the city, a reminder of its past and traditions. The place often attracts tourists who want to feel the atmosphere of old Riyadh, surrounded by traditional architecture and local atmosphere. It is an ideal place to take a stroll, learn about local customs and immerse yourself in the city’s history.
Masmak Fort is one of Riyadh’s most important monuments and has played a key role in Saudi Arabia’s history. It was here that King Abdulaziz captured the fort in 1902, marking the beginning of the country’s unification. The fort, built of clay bricks, is an excellent example of traditional Saudi defensive architecture.
At the time of writing this article, the fort was unfortunately closed, so we could not visit it. It usually offers the opportunity to see exhibits related to the history of Riyadh and the unification of Saudi Arabia. Although we didn’t have the opportunity to see it from the inside, Masmak Fort is worth including in your sightseeing plan once it reopens.
Ad Dirah Park and King Fahad Road Park
These two peaceful parks are located near Riyadh’s historic center, right next to the well-known Al-Dira Square, once infamous for public executions.
Ad Dirah Park is small but charming. It’s ideal for a short walk or rest after visiting nearby landmarks, like Masmak Fort. Its location in the old city allows you to feel the historic atmosphere of Riyadh, surrounded by greenery.
King Fahad Road Park is larger and has walking paths and recreational areas. It’s a perfect place to escape the busy city center. Its proximity to Al-Dira Square makes it popular among tourists and locals looking to unwind.
Kingdom Centre Tower
Kingdom Centre Tower is one of the most iconic buildings in Riyadh and one of the tallest towers in Saudi Arabia. This modern skyscraper with a height of 302 meters is not only a business center, but also a popular tourist attraction.
The tower’s biggest attraction is the Sky Bridge, an observation deck on the 99th floor. It offers breathtaking views of the entire city. On a sunny day, you can enjoy Riyadh’s skyline, which combines traditional architecture with modern skyscrapers.
The Kingdom Center Tower is also a luxury shopping destination, with a mall full of global brands and elegant restaurants. It is a must-see on the map of Riyadh, where you can see how the city combines modernity with tradition.
Najd Oasis Walkway
Najd Oasis Walkway is surrounded by palm trees, which give it a distinctive, oasis-like atmosphere in the middle of the city. It is surrounded by modern buildings such as office buildings and shopping malls, which blend harmoniously with the green space of the path.
Boulevard World
Boulevard World is one of Riyadh’s newest and most exciting attractions, designed with entertainment and recreation in mind. Located in a modern part of the city, it offers a wide range of attractions for the whole family. It features interactive themed zones inspired by cultures from different corners of the world, allowing visitors to experience an international atmosphere in one place.
This venue offers numerous restaurants with cuisines from around the world, stores with local and foreign products, as well as a variety of artistic performances and live shows. The entire space is designed to provide an unforgettable experience, from water attractions to rides and interactive exhibits.
In the evenings, Boulevard World lights up with thousands of lights, making it the perfect place for a stroll or evening entertainment. A must-see on the map of Riyadh, it combines culture, entertainment and modernity in one space.
SAR Railway station – North Line
SAR Railway Station – North Line is an example of modern railroad infrastructure, clearly different from that in Europe, especially in terms of space design and technology. The station in Riyadh was designed to meet the demands of the climate, so it is more enclosed and air-conditioned than most European stations. The interiors are spacious, with large waiting areas that offer comfort even when temperatures are high outside.
The station serves high-speed trains on the North Line, reaching speeds comparable to European systems like the TGV and ICE. Passenger traffic, however, is lower than on main lines in Europe, creating a quieter atmosphere both on platforms and in waiting areas.
The architecture of the station is minimalist and modern, in contrast to traditional European stations, which often have a more historic character. The infrastructure is highly automated, with modern passenger information and access control systems, resembling an airport more than a classic train station.
Compared to Europe, where train stations are often more open, with many stores and services, stations like the SAR Railway Station focus on providing comfort in harsh climates. The emphasis on luxury and comfort makes rail travel in Saudi Arabia more like a premium experience than traditional rail travel in Europe.
Heet Cave
Heet Cave is one of the most fascinating natural attractions around Riyadh, about 40 kilometers southeast of the city. The cave attracts adventure and nature lovers by offering a descent into the earth’s interior, where there is an underground lake with cool, crystal-clear water – at least in theory.
Compared to many tourist caves in Europe, Heet Cave is less organized and offers a wilder, more natural experience. It lacks marked paths and safety features, requiring caution, especially when descending into the depths of the cave. This, however, adds to the place’s rugged character and makes it popular with those seeking close contact with nature and adventure.
Although Heet Cave is not widely known internationally, it is a unique attraction for travelers in Saudi Arabia. It is a very different experience from the typical desert landscapes and sights of Riyadh.
Unfortunately, the clarity of the water in the cave is sometimes disturbed by trash left behind. If it were not for the waste floating on the surface, the water would be stunning in its clarity, further emphasizing the uniqueness of the place. Therefore, an appeal to all visitors: if you go to Heet Cave, take your trash with you. Leaving them destroys this natural beauty and takes away the opportunity for others to enjoy the pristine nature.
Al-Haeer Park Lake
Al-Haeer Park Lake is a charming lake located on the outskirts of Riyadh, providing the perfect place to relax and unwind away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park surrounding the lake offers tranquil green areas for picnics, walks and nature observation.
The lake itself is the centerpiece of the park, and its picturesque scenery attracts locals and tourists alike. The lake’s water, while not as crystalline as Heet Cave’s, gives the place a peaceful and relaxing feel. It is a popular location for families and those seeking respite in nature.
Al-Haeer Park Lake, compared to rougher places like Heet Cave, offers a more organized recreational space with access to basic amenities, making it a great place for a quiet day out. It’s also a good place to observe local fauna, including birds that frequent the lake.
