Riyadh is a sight to behold in the middle of the desert. From being a small town along the trade route, Riyadh has become one of the wealthiest cities in the world and a favorite tourist destination in the Middle East.
So, what exactly are the best places in Riyadh to visit for tourists?
Here are my recommendations:
The Murabba Palace and King Abdul Aziz Historical Center
If you want to learn more about Saudi Arabia’s history, the King Abdul Aziz Historical Center is the perfect place to visit. In fact, the center itself is built around the Murabba Palace, which is one of Riyadh’s most historic buildings. Here, you won’t only learn about the beginnings of the city but also see an old water tower, a courtyard house, and a remodeled mosque that really takes you back to the old times.
Al Masmak Fort is one of Riyadh’s most prized buildings because it’s where the infamous Battle of Riyadh took place.
The fortress also plays a significant role in the Unification of Saudi Arabia and locals even believe that the Al Masmak Fort is a symbol of the kingdom’s strength.
The name itself, after all, translates to “strong.” So, if the fortress falls, the kingdom goes down with it. Today, Al Masmak Fort has been converted into a museum where different historical artifacts are kept.
The National Museum of Saudi Arabia
Part of the complex that also houses the King Abdul Aziz Historical Center and the Murabba Palace, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia combines both the old and new with its modern architecture and an expansive collection of artifacts that play a significant role in Saudi Arabia’s culture and history.
Exhibits are divided into different sections including “The Arab Kingdoms,” “Man and the Universe,” “Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Mission” and “The Islam and the Arabian Peninsula.”
Visiting the souk is a quintessential part of any trip to the Middle East and Deerah is the most popular souq in Riyadh. Located near the Al Masmak Fort, this souq is a haven for local products including gold, antiques, clothing, furniture, carpets, and souvenirs.
So, if you want to shop for authentic Arabian products to bring back home, a visit to the Deerah Souq should be in order.
Finally,
No trip to Riyadh would be complete without visiting its most striking building, The Kingdom Tower.
This outstanding structure has become the symbol of Riyadh and inside it are different attractions including the famous Sky Bridge on the 50th floor that gives you sweeping views of the entire city.
Being on this 65-meter-long bridge is the perfect way to see Riyadh’s glory, especially with the city lights at night. You can also shop for luxury products at the Kingdom Center Mall at the tower's base.
Are you ready to explore beautiful Riyadh? Make sure that you have these top attractions in your itinerary and for sure, this city in the middle of the desert will never disappoint you.