2026 Riyadh Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

If you want to witness the birth of a new global capital, head to Saudi Arabia. 🕌 The Kingdom is steeped in history and traditions—its soul, rather than artificial decorations. 🎡 It is also home to numerous new attractions and entertainment venues, high-quality cafes, restaurants, futuristic resorts, and, of course, trendy skyscrapers. 🏠 In Saudi Arabia, you can find both premium accommodations and quality budget apartments for $40-60 per night. 💪🏻 The country is thinking on a truly grand scale: the VISION 2030 program aims to transform Saudi Arabia into a global hub for technology, investment, tourism, and production, reducing its dependence on oil revenues. The main myth about Saudi Arabia: "It's strict and boring there." Reality in 2026: e-Visa in 10 minutes upon arrival, trendy coffee shops at every corner, Michelin-starred restaurants, and complete safety. And most importantly—the locals here are genuinely happy to welcome tourists and greet them with utmost hospitality in their country.

Hey everyone! Check this out! A fresh 10-day nanny-level guide for Qatar + multiple Middle Eastern countries is here! From the Desert Pearl to mysterious ancient cities, this one guide covers visa, transportation, and pitfalls. It includes off-the-beaten-path experiences and popular check-in spots, teaching you how to travel like a VIP step by step! Save it quickly! -------- Starting from the Pearl of the Persian Gulf, Qatar 🇶🇦, travel through Saudi Arabia’s millennia-old cities and the UAE’s upscale capitals, experiencing the Arabian charm where desert meets ocean. This Middle East highlights tour is definitely worth the ticket price! 🚀 -------- 🚀 Itinerary: This trip is tightly scheduled, allowing you to visit tons of attractions in limited time~ DAY 1: Gather at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, ready to start the Gulf countries tour ✈️ DAY 2: Fly direct from Shenzhen to Doha, check out Qatar Cultural Village, and soak in exotic vibes 🌈 DAY 3-4: Doha 🚌 Manama, Bahrain; visit Fatah Grand Mosque, Manama Souq, etc.; then head to Riyadh, visit Bahrain National Museum, stroll Riyadh’s tree-lined avenues 🌳 DAY 5-6: In-depth Riyadh tour, explore Diriyah ancient city, Saudi Arabia National Museum; then go to Hofuf to see Masmak Fortress 🏰 DAY 7-8: Hofuf 🚌 Doha, visit Hassah Oasis - Jebel Khararah; explore Doha further with Education City Library, Museum of Islamic Art, and more must-sees 📚 DAY 9-10: Doha ✈️ Shenzhen, on the last day visit Qatar National Museum, Doha Waqif Old Market, then return to Shenzhen to end the wonderful journey 🎉 -------- Must-visit spots: 🏙️ Kingdom Centre ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12214, Saudi Arabia ⏰ Opening hours: Mon-Thu, Sat-Sun 09:00-23:00; Fri 12:30-00:00 ⏳ Duration: 1-2 hours Climb to the top of Kingdom Centre for panoramic city views and feel the impact of this landmark building! 🏛️ Museum of Islamic Art, Doha ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Doha, Qatar ⏰ Opening hours: Fri 13:30-19:00; Thu 09:00-21:00; Wed closed; Mon-Tue, Sat-Sun 09:00-19:00 ⏳ Duration: 2-4 hours Beautiful white limestone architecture with stunning views of the Arabian Sea, full of artistic vibes! 🏛️ Qatar National Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Museum Park St, Doha, Qatar ⏰ Opening hours: Fri 13:30-19:00; Mon, Wed, Sat-Sun 09:00-19:00; Tue closed; Thu 09:00-21:00 ⏳ Duration: 2-3 hours A gem designed by Jean Nouvel, bursting with design flair, definitely worth exploring! -------- 🌍 Travel checklist: Essentials for visa-free travel in Qatar + multiple countries! 📱💻**Communication devices**: Buy local SIM cards in advance, carry portable Wi-Fi as backup, plug adapters (EU/UK dual-use). 🪪💳**Documents**: Carry passport + ID, keep copies separately, international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard preferred). 👗🧥**Clothing**: January in Qatar is around 20°C during the day, bring light long sleeves + sun protection clothing; UAE/Saudi indoor AC is strong, pack a light jacket. 🔋📶**Charging**: Phone/camera chargers, power bank (under 20,000mAh), multi-country plug adapters (USB ports make it easier). 💊🧴**Health & protection**: Sunscreen (SPF50+), sunglasses, moisturizing cream (desert climate is dry), common medicines (cold meds, stomach meds). 👟🧢**Gear**: Comfortable sneakers (for desert hikes/temple visits), sun hat, lightweight backpack (for water bottle, snacks). 💵🎁**Other practical items**: Small cash bills (for taxis/small expenses), foldable shopping bag (for duty-free shopping), portable toiletry bag (some hotels don’t provide toothbrushes). -------- 💖 Save this guide and join a group tour to Qatar and multiple countries for an amazing trip. Don’t hesitate, start your journey now! 💖

A perfect blend of history and modernity. Riyadh offers a wide variety of attractions, from the Edge of the World viewpoint with its spectacular cliffs to the Red Sand Dunes, a red desert for adventure seekers. You can also learn about the country's history at museums, relive past events at Diriyah and Masmak Fortress, and take stunning photos with the Kingdom Sky Bridge. This city has it all! If you're looking for a new travel experience, Saudi Arabia is highly recommended. We went with Trip. Besides booking accommodation and flights, their AI helped plan our itinerary. We could easily create a plan specifying our destinations and dates – like having a personal assistant! During the trip, the AI ​​even helped find restaurants and cafes. It was like having a personal secretary! And after our trip, we could post content on the Trip app to earn discounts on our next trip, and importantly, creators on Trip even have a chance to win free trips! Our 4-day, 3-night plan and total budget was 25,500 baht per person. Many attractions were free to enter! No entrance fee either…this trip was amazing! Finally… This trip was fantastic thanks to Trip.com Thailand! I highly recommend a trip to Riyadh; everyone will fall in love with it. . . . Me…with the ponytail #TripcomTH #TripmomentsTH #TravelRiyadh #TravelSaudiArabia #Riyadh #tripNewYearGift

#discoversaudimoment Address: MJPF+M36, Al Idrisi, Al Safarat, Riyadh 12513, Saudi Arabia Little Riyadn Parker's, a Western restaurant in Riyadh, has excellent main courses, including pasta, salads, and desserts. The egg croissant is also quite good. The best dish is the cheese truffle fries. For dessert, the Matilda cake is an unforgettable experience—a chocolate cascade cake, but it definitely needs to be shared by at least four people as it's quite rich. The service is excellent, and the decor is Western-style. The atmosphere is also great, especially the semi-outdoor seating overlooking the green space.

#discoversaudimoment Riyadh Snow City is fantastic and definitely worth a visit, especially for kids. I recommend buying tickets online for discounts. Jackets, pants, socks, gloves, boots, and helmets are available for rent at the counter, and there are changing rooms. Adults don't have many activities, like serious downhill skiing. But kids have plenty to choose from, such as different types/scenes of slides, a giant ball slide where people roll around inside a large ball, snowmobiles, and bumper cars. Overall, it's highly recommended for a hot summer day, and the trip is refreshing. The staff are friendly and helpful. A tip for skiers: dress your children warmly, preferably with hoodies to protect their ears from the cold, and gloves. Staying warm is important for having fun!

#discoversaudimoment Boulevard World in Riyadh is a fantastic attraction—fun and exciting! Boulevard World seems to be inspired by Window of the World, featuring a large lagoon surrounded by pavilions representing various countries. Each pavilion showcases the country's main architectural features, along with food and souvenirs. The park also has many amusement park-style rides. There are admission fees, and each ride costs money individually. You can easily spend several hours here. Go after dark for cooler temperatures and beautiful nighttime lighting. It's a great attraction for all ages.

#discoversaudimoment The National Museum in Riyadh requires registration upon entry, asking for your country, name, and number of people. It's a free museum where you can learn about history and culture. The museum tells the story of the Arabian Peninsula starting from the origin of the universe, in great detail; even a cursory glance takes over an hour. A full day is just right for a thorough visit. The inner garden is particularly beautiful. A copy of the Quran from 650 AD is highly recommended; it's housed in the museum. Through the arrangement of light and space, it creates a sacred atmosphere.

#discoversaudimoment 🏜️✨ Red Sand Dunes – A Golden Desert Dream! ✨ The Red Sand Dunes are pure magic — endless waves of glowing red sand that change colours with the sun. From thrilling dune bashing to peaceful sunset moments, this place gives you the true Arabian desert experience. 🌟 Why Visit? 🏜️ Vast red dunes stretching as far as the eye can see 🌅 Epic sunsets with golden & fiery hues 🚙 Dune bashing & desert safari for adventure lovers 📸 Insta-perfect views at every angle ☕ Desert vibes with tea, silence & starry nights 🐪 Camel rides & sandboarding for fun memories 📍 Location: Saudi Arabia (near Riyadh / AlUla region depending on area) 💸 Cost: Free to explore; safari tours extra 🕒 Best Time: Late afternoon → sunset 🚕 How to Reach Best reached by 4x4 vehicle or guided desert tour. #️⃣ #RedSandDunes #SaudiDesert #DesertVibes #ArabianAdventure #ExploreSaudi

#discoversaudimoment The Mandarin Oriental, Al-Afal Sharia, Riyadh, opens in 2024, marking the brand's official entry into the Saudi Arabian market. Located in the city center, adjacent to the Al-Afal Sharia building and shopping mall, the hotel, designed by Adam Tihany Design, blends modern luxury with Saudi cultural elements, offering impeccable five-star service. From arrival to room service, the staff are incredibly friendly. The location boasts stunning views of the bustling city, with a rooftop bar offering breathtaking vistas. The rooms are a delightful surprise, spacious and tastefully decorated. A good night's sleep is guaranteed. The bedding is exceptionally comfortable, and the windows offer expansive views, perhaps overlooking the city skyline at night. A welcome gift is also provided—a unique Mandarin fan. The bathroom features an oval-shaped bathtub decorated with romantic rose petals, creating a truly blissful experience…

#discoversaudimoment The Hayyak Lounge at Riyadh Airport is spacious, bright, and well-equipped after renovations, even featuring massage chairs and silent pods. It offers a wide range of services, including comfortable seating, sofas, and showers. Since Saudi Arabia is a non-alcoholic country, they do not offer alcoholic beverages, but the selection is plentiful, ranging from pasta to chicken sausages and chicken nuggets. Drinks are plentiful, and Arabic coffee and dates are all-you-can-eat. Many food items are individually packaged, ensuring hygiene. The food is delicious, with a wide selection, and drinks, fruit, and yogurt are available all day. The staff are very friendly, and the lounge is impeccably clean.

Kingdom Centre is a major landmark in Riyadh, featuring the Sky Bridge over 300 meters high, luxury shopping malls, restaurants, and stunning city views. It's perfect for both shopping and enjoying panoramic cityscapes. 🏙️ Highlights of Kingdom Centre • Sky Bridge: A viewing platform over 300 meters high offering a 360-degree view of Riyadh, making you feel like you're walking in the sky. • Shopping Mall: Home to world-class luxury brands and a variety of stores, ideal for shopping enthusiasts. • Dining: Features international restaurants and elegantly designed cafes, perfect for relaxing after exploring. • Design Icon: A 99-story building with a distinctive curved top, a hallmark of modern architecture. 📝 Travel Tips • Best Time to Visit: Go in the evening to enjoy the sunset and the city's night lights from the Sky Bridge. • Tickets: Book in advance, especially for the Sky Bridge, as it's a popular attraction. • Dress Code: Respect local culture by dressing modestly according to Saudi Arabian traditions. • Nearby Attractions: Located in the Al Olaya district, the business and shopping hub of Riyadh. 📌 Summary Kingdom Centre is not just a skyscraper but a comprehensive experience, offering breathtaking views, luxury shopping, and a unique perspective of Riyadh. It's perfect for both laid-back travelers and luxury seekers.

#discoversaudimoment The first %Arabica store in Saudi Arabia, located in the capital Riyadh, was designed by a Japanese designer. Its pure white box design, mirrored walls, and circular arches create a scene reminiscent of a science fiction movie, a stage for futuristic living. %Arabica Coffee opened its first store in Japan in Kyoto in 2014 and now has 110 stores in 18 countries worldwide. The first store in The Zone, Saudi Arabia, features a striking white and black color scheme, reflecting the region's characteristics in its design. %Arabica Coffee is a shining jewel in the world of coffee, offering unique quality and flavor. It is renowned for its minimalist aesthetic and exceptional coffee quality, with each cup made from carefully sourced premium coffee beans from around the world. %Arabica has branches in many countries, ensuring a consistent experience whether you prefer classic espresso or specialty drinks.

#discoversaudimoment As Saudi Arabia's influence on the international stage continues to grow, more and more airlines are expanding their routes to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabian Airlines, the national flagship, naturally far surpasses its competitors. Before discussing the business class experience, let's talk about how, since Saudi Arabia opened up to tourism, transit visas and free transit hotels can be applied for on their official website. Flying to Riyadh on a Boeing 787, the Dreamliner's cabin offers more comfortable cabin pressure and humidity, and the business class seats are 1-2-1 and can recline fully. Upon boarding, pillows and blankets were already placed on the leather seats, and the cotton pillowcases on the backrests felt very nice. The seats were also quite spacious. Due to Saudi Arabia's predominantly Muslim population, a blessing recitation was played on the screen before takeoff. Saudi Arabian Airlines' Missoni overnight bag in Business Class is of high quality, containing hand cream, lip balm, lotion, and fragrance from the Australian natural plant-based brand Grown Alchemist; it also includes Zeiss lens wipes, an eye mask, long socks, toothpaste, a toothbrush, earplugs, and a comb. No alcoholic beverages are served on board; the crew welcomes passengers with Middle Eastern dates and Arabic coffee. For passengers who prefer a more alcoholic experience, Saudi Arabian Airlines also offers non-alcoholic sparkling drinks, with a taste similar to sparkling fruit juice. All food is halal, with a choice of Middle Eastern or Western dishes.

#discoversaudimoment The Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh is located in the Kingdom building, which resembles the Hong Kong ICC in appearance. Actually, a night's stay costs around HKD 3,000 to 5,000, which is really not expensive. I truly had a wonderful time there. From the moment I arrived, the staff were warm and hospitable, making me feel right at home. The hotel's environment is beautiful, offering a commanding view of the land below. The elegant five-star facilities exude a warm and pleasant atmosphere. Everyone was warm, friendly, attentive, and the speed of service was impressive. From check-in to room service, the overall service was excellent. The dining and spa services were also superb—quick, professional, and perfect.

Visa📝: Visa on arrival, after getting off the plane follow the signs to the visa on arrival room, pay 395 SAR by card (about 745 RMB), no questions asked, very smooth. Currency Exchange💰: There is a currency exchange booth in the airport hall, exchanging US dollars is more cost-effective, no need to exchange too much, credit cards are widely accepted throughout Saudi Arabia. Transportation🚗: 1️⃣ The metro is very convenient. I directly tapped my Mastercard at the gate, and the fee of 4 SAR was automatically charged after 2 hours. Women can only ride in the Family carriage. 2️⃣ Uber rides can be paid by cash or linked bank card. Attractions🎫: 1️⃣ Riyadh landmark "The Bottle Opener" (Kingdom Centre), take the metro to Al Urubah station, you can see it as soon as you exit. 2️⃣ National Library, take the metro to King Fahad Library station. The Faisaliah Tower is also nearby, can take photos together. 3️⃣ National Museum and Murabba Palace, these two places are next to each other, take the metro to National Museum station. 4️⃣ Masmak Fortress + traditional market, navigate to Masmak Fortress, the market is near the fortress, you can navigate to Souk Al Zal. The market has traditional auctions, mostly locals, very lively. 5️⃣ The world's largest % coffee shop, navigate to Arabica Riyadh Roastery %. 6️⃣ Diriyah Old Town, the origin of the Saudi royal family, there is a light show at night, the night view is beautiful. 7️⃣ Edge of the World, you can drive yourself, but the road conditions are complicated. It is recommended to join a local day tour to catch a sunset at the edge of the world.

Saudi Arabia has officially claimed the No.1 spot on my travel wishlist, and honestly… I can’t stop imagining myself there. 🌙✨ From the breathtaking golden deserts to the futuristic skyline of Riyadh, every photo and video I come across feels like a scene from a dream. The stunning landscapes of AlUla, the magical glow of the Red Sea at sunset, the rich culture, the warm hospitality — everything about this place pulls me in. 🤍🏜️ I can already picture myself wandering through ancient heritage sites, sipping coffee with a view of endless dunes, and capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments that stay in your heart forever. ✨📸 Sharing this with because one day, I want this dream to turn into a real adventure — and maybe, just maybe, this moment will bring me one step closer. 🤞💫 #discoversaudimoment

#discoversaudimo Riyadh is not only the business heart of Saudi Arabia, but it is also becoming more and more lifestyle and modern. This time I went to Riyadh and chose the Hilton Oraya Hotel because the design is relatively new and the location is super convenient, suitable for business and want to enjoy the world easily. What attracted me the most was that when I opened the window, I saw the city skyline, across the street and the landmark Kingdom Building, plus there are many restaurants and shopping malls in the surroundings, which really balances life and tourism. The hotel's location advantage: Hilton Riyadh Olaya is right on the King Fahd Branch, the main thoroughfare in the city center. Nearby large shopping centers, authentic restaurants and everything, don't be afraid to find night entertainment or authentic food. With a ride-hailing app like Uber, it is very convenient whether to go to the airport or in-depth tour of the city's attractions. Room environment and design: The stay feels very novel and stylish. Although the room type is not large (many hotels in Riyadh are biased towards business design), the hygiene and air quality of each room is great, the view outside the window can see the entire skyline, great for taking pictures at night. Sofa, coffee table matching just right, sitting and waiting for the sun to shine on the city, super relax. ment

#discoversaudimo To Riyadh stayed at Riyadh Hilton Hotel and Apartments, the location is really super convenient, whether you are business or sightseeing tour. The hotel is situated right on Eastern Ring Rd, near large shopping centers, and quick access to Riyadh’s main business district and shopping district. Although a little distance from the ancient city and traditional markets, the surroundings are serene, with palm trees and modern architecture of the city intermingling with Riyadh’s tolerance and progress. As soon as you land at the hotel, you are greeted by a blue sky and white clouds, paired with a spacious entrance and palm trees, a typical modern Saudi urban feel. There is a dedicated person to help park the car at the door, so you don't need to bother with the parking space yourself. The interior design is also quite stylish, the rooms are spacious and clean, the view is open, at night the curtains are drawn to look out to the city lights, a kind of mobile urban feeling. Comfortable bedding and powerful air conditioning, perfect for summer stays. In terms of facilities, the hotel, although the swimming pool is small, but the advantage is clean enough, for those who want to stay in the city and do not want too many arrangements, is a little relaxation. Other amenities are well-stocked: a gym, a business center, and free Wi-Fi for work or long-distance travel. What was more impressive was the service, whether the front desk or guest room cleaning, the staff was very polite and helpful. When encountering problems or special requests, they will proactively cooperate, with details such as helping you make restaurant reservations and assisting with car calls, which adds a lot to the overall experience. Chinese-style or Chinese-speaking travelers don’t have to worry if they need help, the hotel is highly attentive and easier to adapt than many overseas hotels. ment

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the "City of the Future" in the desert, combines the heritage of a thousand-year-old city with the futuristic feel of modern architecture, waiting for you to explore! Inside the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, prehistoric fossils from 2 million years ago coexist with artifacts from the Islamic Golden Age, all under a massive dome that is truly impressive. Masmak Fortress, a red sandstone castle with watchtowers, exudes vintage charm, and the adjacent market offers handmade treasures. Diriyah, the birthplace of Saudi Arabia's first dynasty, features yellow earth-colored ruins that tell history, and the nighttime light show takes you through "One Thousand and One Nights." The Kingdom Centre, a 302-meter tall skyscraper, offers a sky bridge on the top floor with panoramic city views and an exhilarating glass floor; under the golden light at 4 PM, the view is breathtaking. Tahlia Street Night Market is a food lover’s paradise, with roasted pigeon, fried falafel paired with Arabic coffee, all for about 50 SAR per person, immersing you in local life. You can also savor specialties like Kabsa, Mandi, and Falafel. Getting around the city is convenient with Careem rides. Come to Riyadh, experience the unique charm of this city, and create unforgettable memories!

There are many luxury hotels in Riyadh, but this one definitely ranks among the top for perfectly balancing location, facilities, and thoughtful service 🏨! As a Trip.com hotel experience officer, I highly recommend it to all my sisters! - 📍 Location & Transportation The hotel is located in the heart of Riyadh's Olaya district Within walking distance to Al Faisaliah Mall and Mode Mall, two major luxury shopping centers 35 minutes by car ✈️ direct to King Khalid International Airport Many unique restaurants nearby 🛏️ Room Experience Separate living room and dining area plus a private balcony Extra-large floor-to-ceiling windows 🪟 facing the city skyline Freestanding bathtub with TV 🛁 soaking in the bath while watching shows is so cozy Equipped with Natura Bissé premium toiletries 🧴 Nespresso coffee machine, and a customized pillow menu for ultimate comfort 🏨 Public Area Highlights Award-winning spa center 💆 with a dedicated Hammam suite and a 16-meter indoor pool for women Men’s area features a vitality pool 🏊‍♀️ sauna, and cold plunge pool Order afternoon tea at the lobby lounge 🫖 exquisite desserts paired with rich black tea, perfect for photos too

Famous YouTuber MrBeast has launched a theme park in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, inspired by the thrilling stunts featured in his videos. The park is open from November 13 to December 27. It offers a variety of interactive experiences and challenges designed to engage visitors in fun and exciting ways. Fans of MrBeast can look forward to attractions including obstacle courses, game show-style competitions, and other adrenaline-pumping activities that echo the high-energy style of his YouTube videos.

NUJUMA, The Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Saudi Arabia | Hidden luxury resort in the Red Sea Islands, the world's sixth Ritz-Carlton Reserve, offering the ultimate private luxury experience. There are three main reasons why you must stay at the Red Sea Ritz-Carlton Reserve: 1. Secret Red Sea paradise, ultimate privacy experience. The hotel is located on a pristine island in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea project, surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons and fine white sandy beaches, with only a limited number of guests, enjoying the utmost secluded luxury. 2. Eco-luxury design. Built with sustainable architecture concepts, incorporating natural elements of desert and ocean, featuring handcrafted woven decorations and wooden villas that perfectly blend with the island landscape, creating a seamless vacation experience. 3. World-class diving paradise. Adjacent to one of the most pristine coral reef groups globally, guests have exclusive access to private dive spots to explore sea turtles, manta rays, and colorful marine life up close, experiencing world-class diving and water sports. Recommended room types: * Ocean View Pool Villa: Extra-large private terrace + infinity pool, step out to see the vast blue sea, wake up every day to the sound of waves. * Overwater Villa: Glass house floating on the Red Sea, with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows + private deck leading directly to the sea, perfect for honeymoon trips. * Hidden Beach Villa: Exclusive private beach and garden, with a separate outdoor dining area, ideal for private gatherings with family and friends. Dining and specialty restaurant recommendations: * Al Wadi: Focuses on local Saudi ingredients, blending Arabian and Mediterranean flavors, with stunning sunset views. * The Ocean Deck: Seaside restaurant offering ultra-fresh seafood BBQ, unlimited lobster, oysters, and tuna sashimi to satisfy seafood lovers. Exclusive luxury experiences for Red Sea guests: * Private snorkeling and diving: Explore untouched pristine coral gardens, encounter sea turtles, tropical fish, and dolphins. * Sailing cruise and sunset champagne party: Sail on a luxury catamaran in the Red Sea sunset, enjoying a top-tier vacation atmosphere. * Desert adventure and stargazing camping: Customize experiences such as desert riding, 4WD dune bashing, and starry tent camping during your stay. * Private spa and yoga meditation: Practice morning yoga on the island or enjoy Arabian aromatic massages at the open-air spa pavilion.

Riyadh Notes Under the blazing sun of the Hanifa Valley, Riyadh rises like a pearl in the desert, weaving millennia-old traditions with modern ambitions into the fabric of the city. Every corner of this Saudi capital tells a story of the dialogue between the ancient and the new. The mud-brick buildings of the old city are a testament to time. In the ochre streets of Diriyah, the brick patterns from the 18th century hide the origin story of the Saudi dynasty. When night falls, the courtyards lit by lamps resemble scenes from One Thousand and One Nights[__LINK_ICON]. Not far away, the Masmak Fortress’s thick walls glow golden in the sunset. Pushing open a wooden door feels like touching the pulse of the kingdom’s birth. The aroma of spices fills the air at the Souk Al-Zal market, where the scents of saffron and frankincense mingle with the lively bargaining between vendors and customers, creating the most vibrant street rhythm. Turn around and you fall into a modern skyline. The Kingdom Centre’s sky bridge hangs 97 floors above ground, offering a magical moment at sunset to overlook the city as it shifts from golden hues to neon colors[__LINK_ICON]. The King Fahd Fountain shoots water skyward, and the nighttime light show draws dazzling arcs across the night sky. The newly built Boulevard district is full of futuristic vibes, where traditional domes and glass curtain walls echo each other in the view from the sky garden café. Taste is a shortcut to understanding the city. At Najd Village, the hand-grabbed rice mixed with saffron aroma and camel meat dishes bring unique flavors. Paired with a cup of rich Arabic coffee, it’s an authentic local taste. Afternoon tea on the terrace of the Ritz-Carlton features honey cakes and camel milk, perfectly embodying the city’s character—refined innovation built on a traditional foundation. The city’s rhythm is found in the details: the metro has women-only cars, attractions gradually open after Friday noon, and the five daily Quran recitations mark the unchanging time scale. Amid the interplay of conservatism and openness, Riyadh is writing a future chapter on the desert with its “Vision 2030” as its pen.

#mytraveldiary Riyadh blends ancient traditions with futuristic ambition. From the historic Masmak Fortress to the soaring Kingdom Centre Tower, the city captures Saudi Arabia’s transformation. Explore vibrant souks, dine on authentic kabsa, and experience desert adventures just outside the city. Riyadh is an evolving hub where heritage and innovation meet. Highlights: Masmak Fortress & Diriyah Kingdom Centre views Saudi cuisine & souks

Having lived in Japan, I was used to a reliable and efficient metro system. so I was really curious to see how Riyadh Metro compares. 🚇✨ To my surprise, it’s incredibly smooth and modern! You don’t even need to buy a special card, just tap in and out with your regular bank card (contactless). The fare is also very affordable: 4 SAR per ride, or 20 SAR for an all-day pass. Honestly, it feels like a huge step forward for the city and makes moving around Riyadh so much easier. #Riyadh #RiyadhMetro #SaudiArabia #VisitSaudi #ExploreRiyadh #Kafd

Top luxury hotel in Riyadh, you’ll fall in love after just one stay Traveling to Saudi Arabia, I stayed at the legendary The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh. No exaggeration, this was an experience that made me say “wow” right away, and I have to share it with everyone 👇 🛏️ Room layout: The room is spacious and bright, with a reasonable layout and perfect use of space. From the soft bed to the exquisite furniture, every detail exudes quality. Some room types even offer a full view of the bustling Riyadh cityscape. Opening the curtains in the morning, the scenery is truly healing 🌆 ✨ Amenities and facilities: The facilities are beyond imagination! A 24-hour gym with brand-new, professional equipment; an indoor heated pool with a dome and floor-to-ceiling windows, swimming here feels like being in a dreamlike water world. There’s also an amazing spa center, although it’s men-only, the signature treatments and massages are said to be exceptional 💆‍♂️ The room amenities are all top brands, and using them is simply delightful! 🍽️ Dining experience: A paradise for food lovers! Al Orjouan all-day buffet offers international cuisine and Middle Eastern specialties, don’t miss the weekly seafood nights and the extended Friday brunch. Azzurro Italian restaurant serves authentic pasta and pizza, every bite is super satisfying 🍝 Hong Asian restaurant specializes in Sichuan cuisine, so you can enjoy the taste of home even abroad, which is such a wonderful surprise! There’s also the dessert house Palais des Délices, with various homemade pastries and oriental sweets paired with high-quality coffee, making afternoon tea time incredibly cozy ☕ �‍🔥 Soundproofing and cleanliness: The soundproofing is excellent; once you close the door, the outside noise instantly disappears, allowing for a very peaceful sleep 🛌 Cleanliness is impeccable, the room is spotless, and the bedding is clean and soft, making the stay very reassuring. 🎈 Other tips: Hotel prices fluctuate, so keep an eye on price trends before booking; check-in is after 3:00 PM, and check-out is before 12:00 PM, so plan your schedule accordingly. Also, according to local customs, couples sharing a room need to provide a marriage certificate. 📍 Hotel address: Al Hada District, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. If you come to Riyadh, don’t miss this hotel—it truly lets you experience top-tier luxury and comfort, starting an unforgettable trip!

#holidayitinerary Exploring Boulevard World in Riyadh was such a blast. It felt like hopping across different countries without leaving Saudi Arabia. Each zone had its own theme with architecture, food, and vibes from places like China, France, Mexico, and more. Walking from one area to another felt like teleporting. There were performers everywhere, fun music, and so many food stalls to try. I loved how interactive everything was, and there were cute photo spots around every corner. The Japan zone was probably my favorite with all the lanterns and sushi snacks. They even had boat rides and carnival games, which made it feel super lively and fun. It’s definitely more fun at night when everything lights up and the atmosphere gets electric. It’s a great place to just chill, take photos, and enjoy with friends or family. Boulevard World is a must if you’re in Riyadh during the season. Just be ready for lots of walking and tons of fun.

I am very excited to enjoy my vacation in my home country after a long time. Buy the ticket from trip.com. #travel