Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi, is a jewel in the country’s crown. The city, almost single-handedly, has put Saudi on the modern traveller’s map. If you are someone wanting to explore an unexplored land that weds traditions and contemporaneousness, then Riyadh must be on your list.
This Riyadh Travel Guide curates the best of Riyadh for you, so that you can expect a regal and elegant stay at “The Gardens”.
If you have gone through a bunch of Riyadh travel guides 2024, then it is possible that you are slightly confused about what tips to take seriously and what to ignore. Also, not all guides have comprehensive information to offer, which makes it further difficult for the traveller to begin planning.
Fret not, we are here now. This travel guide to Riyadh will make things so simple for you, that you’ll immediately head out to Riyadh for your next vacation.
The desert plateau, Riyadh, the heart of Saudi and also the capital, is a business hub and sees a lot of entrepreneurs travelling to and from throughout the year. However, there are a number of destinations that make Riyadh the ideal getaway for an explorer too.
Riyadh is blessed with several still-unexplored gems. From the mesmerising Red Sand Dunes to the Tuwaiq Cliffs, considered among the seven wonders of Arabia, not a single day here in Riyadh lacks excitement.
For art lovers, especially, Riyadh puts up quite a show. With its charming galleries and public art events, the city really knows how to impress an aesthete.
Similarly, for an adrenaline enthusiast, Riyadh, with its golden dunes is an experience worth a lifetime. Feel the thrill when you when you experience fireworks shows to spectacular parades, during Riyadh Season.
Along with scenic locations and exhilarating activities, Riyadh’s gastronomic joys will spellbind you.
Anyone who’s been to Saudi will tell you that Kabsa, the national dish of Saudi, is best prepared in Riyadh. This mouth-watering delicacy is made by pressing the ingredients in a single vessel to let the flavours mingle. Whether you try it with lamb, chicken or fish, you are in for an unforgettable treat.
Even the rice preparations in Riyadh are ambrosial. If there is one that you must try, then that would be Bukhari Rice.
For those who can’t hit the bed without having tasted something sweet, Riyadh’s juicy Aseeda, and Luqaimat, the sweet dumpling of Arabia, will satiate your sugar craving.
Don’t worry in case you are a vegetarian, Riyadh will not disappoint you either. You have a variety to indulge in too, starting from Muttabaq, a preparation similar to a pancake and stuffed with everything from egg, onion and peppers.
A Riyadh Travel Guide is incomplete if it does not tell you when to book your tickets, right? Let’s tick that off our list then.
Riyadh is best during winter months. The months between November and February are way cooler than the rest of the year. Therefore, late autumn to early spring is a fantastic time to plan a trip.
However, Saudi is a year-round destination. Riyadh is mostly warm throughout the year, which makes it best for trying out many adventurous outdoor activities.
Apart from your passport and your visa, be sure to pack clothes that cover you well. This will protect you from the sun.
Also carry with you a good sunblock, a pair of sunglasses that protect your eyes and the skin around your eyes, and finally an umbrella because “too prepared” is not a real thing. Do carry a scarf too which you can use as a headscarf, if required.
Once you make up your mind to travel to Riyadh, ways open up on their own. The airport your plane will arrive at is the King Khaled Airport. Flights from all over the globe are welcomed at this international airport.
When you reach Riyadh, travelling within the city is no hassle at all. Travelling to Dammam, for instance, can be done by train or bus. If you are planning to hit Jeddah, then too you can avail a bus and make your way to the bride of the Red Sea.
Touring Riyadh means saying yes to a plethora of activities.
For all those seeking the finer things in life, prepare to be gobsmacked by Riyadh’s dining and entertainment. The Al Faisaliah Centre, which looks like a rocket aiming for the sky, has a ball on top where you and your loved one can indulge in some world-class cuisine. Once fully satiated, head over to the various malls and galleries where you get to shop till you drop!
When in Riyadh, history lovers should be prepared to lose their way while taking trips down Saudi’s memory lane. The Al Masmak Fortress carries in its heart stories, secrets and so much. Explore it all on your trip to Riyadh in 2024. We must also mention one of the oldest mud-brick palaces located right next to the National Museum. Yes, we are talking about the world-renowned Murabba Palace. A day at this palace taking in every nook and cranny will leave you awestruck.
Listing out the things to do in Riyadh is both easy and difficult at the same time. It is effortless because the place has loads to offer. It is tough because choosing what to keep and what to omit feels like a task. But no matter what you leave out, make sure you find your way to the King Abdullah Malaz Park. Located right in the heart of Riyadh, this park is the best way to bathe your eyes in lush greenery. The lake and the stunning fountain in the park is sure to offer some respite from the torture of the sun.
Visiting Riyadh and not going for a safari would be a mistake. From exploring the wild to experiencing opulence at a lavish resort, Riyadh knows how to lure its guests.
Last but not the least, if biking along rubicund dunes has always been a dream, Riyadh might be able to do something about it. Dune bashing on quad bikes is an experience worth giving a shot if you want to get your heart pumping and want several stories to tell your friends once you are back.
This Riyadh travel guide mentions the most essential things to keep in mind while travelling to this wondrous land.
This travel guide to Riyadh will assist you to have the best trip to Riyadh. Before you start putting your itinerary together and pack your cases, we need to inform you about some very important guidelines, the Covid-19 travel guidelines.
Travelling to Riyadh from anywhere will require you to have a negative PCR test result. Also make sure that the test is conducted not more than 72 hours before your departure.
All travellers must also show proof of vaccination (vaccine certificates for COVID 19) with one of the approved vaccines recognized in Saudi. Travellers are also encouraged to check the current entry requirements with their chosen airline.
If you are travelling from outside Saudi, then the first thing would be securing a visa. Please bear in mind that visa-on-arrival has been suspended due to the current health situation around the world.
We would also recommend getting a Covid-19 insurance and downloading the Tawakkalna app once you arrive in Riyadh.
We wish you and your family a fabulous holiday!
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