Jan

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Riyadh Travel & Sightseeing Guide

January 10, 2008 |

A trip to Riyadh

A gleaming hi-tech city, Riyadh’s wealth comes from the oil industry. As the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is a showcase of the pomp and richness of the kingdom. It is important to note that Saudi Arabia doesn’t issue tourists with visas and visitors need to either obtain an invitation or book a special tour with the government. Arrival in the kingdom is via the King Khalid International Airport.

Flights to Riyadh
Opened in 1983, King Khalid International Airport exudes a beautiful balance of modern architecture and Islamic artistry. The four terminals are decorated with artworks by famous Saudi artists. The airport services both domestic and international flights, with a capacity to serve over eight million passengers a year. The airport has all modern amenities, such as banks, restaurants and a wide array of shops. If you are looking for a cheap flight to Riyadh try Thomas Cook.

It is important to note that there is no public transportation from the airport and visitors will either have to arrange their own transportation, such as a hotel pick up or use a taxi. Licensed taxis are available from outside the Arrivals Terminal and the journey into Riyadh takes about 30 minutes.

Riyadh


Sightseeing in Riyadh
Female visitors should note that it is important to dress modestly and cover your head. Saudi Arabia is a stoutly Islamic country and this may make travel for western women somewhat restrictive. It is also important to observe that drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited and visitors should not attempt to bring alcohol into the kingdom.

The old city is called Al Bathaa and is beautiful to explore on foot. The Masmak Fortress, built in 1865, was recently renovated and now houses a museum. The Riyadh Museum is also well worth a visit, showcasing the history of the kingdom. The Ruins of Dir’aiyah are an important attraction, and this major archeological site can easily be reached by car. Here, visitors can see the ruins as well as reconstructed buildings, such as palaces and mosques.

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Fun by night – eating drinking and partying
As alcoholic beverages are banned in Saudi Arabia, there is very little drinking to be had. Most of the nightlife is centred on the many international hotels in town. Most hotels offer a range of restaurants, which are popular with locals as well. As an international city, there are a range of restaurants available, serving everything from European to Asian food.

During your visit to the kingdom, you should try the local cuisine. Two popular restaurants are Al-Andalus and Al-Taboon. The former offers buffet style dining with a range of Arabic and international food, while the latter serves the best kabsa in Riyadh. Kabsa is a Saudi staple made with meat, rice, tomatoes, onions and various spices, somewhat like an Indian biryani.

Fun by day - shopping and activities
Shopping is a favourite pastime in Riyadh and there is much on offer. Gold is a good purchase in the kingdom, as most items are sold by weight rather than by the hours of workmanship put into a piece. Popular with local ladies is the Al-Bat’ha Mall, on General Bat’ha street. It is one of the oldest malls in the Al-Fouta area and houses close to 90 shops offering clothes, shoes and accessories. For more modern shopping, visit the numerous other malls in the city such as: Al Attas Mall, Al Faisaliyah Centre, Al Haram Mall and Al Khaleej Plata Mall.


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