Riyadh
The modern ambition of a desert kingdom, where the cliff-top Masmak Fortress and the future city of NEOM display Saudi past and future alike.
Overview
Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia. Masmak Fortress and the National Museum present Arab culture, and the Diriyah ruins are a World Heritage Site.
History
Riyadh means gardens and was the traditional capital of the Najd region at the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. Masmak Fortress was built in the 19th century, and in 1902 Ibn Saud retook it with only 40 men, launching the campaign that unified the peninsula and founded the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. The discovery of oil in the 20th century transformed a desert town into a modern metropolis. In 2016 Saudi Arabia launched Vision 2030, a large-scale shift towards a non-oil economy and international tourism.
Highlights
- •The founding history of Saudi Arabia at Masmak Fortress
- •Eight galleries covering the peninsula's history at the National Museum
- •Diriyah, a World Heritage Site and birthplace of the Saudi state
- •The rising megacity of NEOM
- •One of the world's largest aquariums at The Zone
Practical tips
- •Follow local dress codes
- •Apply for the tourist visa online
Practical information
- Best time
- October to March
- Tickets
- Masmak Fortress and National Museum are free
- Opening hours
- Sights roughly 9:00 to 18:00; closed Friday afternoons
- Local food
- Arabian grilled meat, hummus and dates
- Getting around
- Driving and ride-hailing dominate; public transport coverage is limited
- Visa
- A tourist visa is required and an e-visa can be applied for online, with hotel bookings and itinerary details required.
Traveller reviews
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