If you’re planning a visit to Saudi Arabia, Riyadh deserves to be on your list. It’s a city that combines rich heritage with cutting-edge modernity, making it a unique tourist destination in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula. This travel guide to Riyadh It will provide you with all to know about Riyadh to ensure an enjoyable travel experience.
Travel guide to Riyadh
Riyadh is a city that blends heritage and modernity, offering travelers a unique tourist experience. Whether you’re a fan of history, shopping, adventure, or international cuisine, Riyadh offers an unforgettable experience. In this travel guide to Riyadh, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling to this wonderful city to help you enjoy your trip.
All things to know about visiting Saudi Arabia
Before you start your journey, there is some basic information you should be aware of:
- The official currency is the Saudi riyal.
- Arabic is the official language and is used in all public transactions, while English is an unofficial second language spoken by a large number of the population.
- Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted.
- Apple Pay and Google Pay are available in most stores.
- For working days, the week starts on Sunday and ends on Thursday.
- You can purchase a SIM card from one of the kiosks at King Khalid International Airport or from telecom company stores.
- 5G is available throughout the city, and most hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer free, fast Wi-Fi.
- It is not necessary to wear the hijab, it is optional, but it is mandatory when entering mosques.
- It is best to wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders, chest, and abdomen, and for skirts or dresses to be below the knee.
- If you’re visiting Riyadh during Ramadan, expect reduced business hours, and eating or drinking in public during the day is prohibited.
Getting to Riyadh
King Khalid International Airport is the main airport in Riyadh and receives international flights from all over the world. You can reach the city via local and international airlines such as Saudia, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.
Transportation and getting around
Transportation means are:
- Taxi
- Rent a car
- Metro
- Uber and Careem apps
- public buses
Dress code and cultural norms in Riyadh
Riyadh is a conservative city, so it is important to respect the local culture when choosing clothing:
- For men: Wear non-revealing clothing, such as pants and short-sleeved or long-sleeved shirts.
- For women: Wear long-sleeved clothing with skirts or trousers that cover at least the knees. The abaya is no longer mandatory, but it is a suitable option for visitors who wish to integrate with the local culture.
Top attractions and activities in Riyadh
There are many tourist attractions you can visit:
- Masmak Fortress
- Historic Diriyah
- Deira Market
- Taiba Market
- Edge of the World
- Boulevard World
- National Museum
- Sky Bridge
- Al Faisaliah Tower
As for the most important activities that you can do in Riyadh, you can do the following:
- Visit the historic district of Diriyah.
- Experience sand car riding and sand skiing.
- Visit Masmak Fortress.
- Shopping and buying traditional abayas.
- Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Sky Bridge.
- Enjoy a traditional Saudi meal in Najd Village.
- Take a walk in King Abdullah District and visit the Grand Mosque there.
Best restaurants and dining spots in Riyadh
Here are the best restaurants and dining spots:
- Mama Noura Restaurant
- Tilia Restaurant
- Globe Restaurant
- Suhail
- Flamingo Room
- Il Baretto
- Gymkhana
- Wagyumafia
- Yauatcha
- The Gais
- Urth Caffe
Where to stay in Riyadh?
There are many hotels that suit all tastes, including:
- Fairmont Riyadh Hotel
- Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh
- The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
- Mansard Riyadh
- St. Regis Riyadh
- JW Marriott Riyadh
Entry requirements
If you hold a US passport, the United States is included in the list of countries eligible for an e-Visa or visa-on-arrival. You can view Saudi Arabia’s list of e-Visa-eligible countries, as well as visa-on-arrival requirements, on the official website. If you are not from one of the eligible countries, you will need to apply for a visa through a Saudi embassy or consulate.
Currency in Saudi Arabia
The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal. Although cash can be used, bank cards are widely accepted almost everywhere.
Time zone
Saudi Arabia is located in the time zone (Saudi time +3 GMT).
Getting a SIM Card in Riyadh
You can purchase a SIM card from major telecom companies such as STC, Mobily, or Zain at the airport or shopping malls.
Weather in Riyadh
Riyadh’s climate is characterized by extreme heat in the summer, with temperatures reaching 45 degrees Celsius, while in the winter it is characterized by moderate coldness.
Safety tips for travelers
Riyadh is a safe city, but there are some precautions you can take. Here are some safety tips for travelers:
- Respect local laws and culture and dress modestly.
- Avoid unconventional behaviors
- Keep your personal belongings safe
- Use safe transportation
- Avoid uninhabited areas at night.
Explore Saudi Arabia with Saudi Private Tours
Saudi Private Tours offers unique tours that combine luxury, heritage, and adventure. They are tailored to your interests, with high-end services and expert guides. Riyadh City Tours, one of them, will take you to explore heritage sites and modern architecture, with fun activities for all visitors.
Why choose Saudi Private Tours?
- Tours to suit all tastes, whether you are a lover of history, adventure, or luxury.
- Customer service provides continuous support to ensure your comfort during your journey.
- Professional local guides share unique stories and cultural details about each location you visit.
- Cultural and historical trips.
- Nature adventures to experience a safari in the Saudi deserts.
- Accommodations in the finest hotels and resorts.
- Comfort and smooth movement to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
Book your tour now and get ready to discover Saudi Arabia’s treasures in luxury and authenticity.
People also ask
What to know before traveling to Riyadh?
Make sure to obtain a tourist visa in advance, familiarize yourself with local laws and customs, and dress modestly in public.
Is Riyadh worth visiting?
Of course, it is a city that combines ancient heritage with modern development, making it a tourist destination rich with unique experiences.
What to do in Riyadh as a tourist?
You can visit historical sites, enjoy shopping in malls and traditional markets, and take a desert tour with camping and camel riding.
In conclusion, this travel guide to Riyadh will help you on your trip to this wonderful city. It’s a unique tourist destination, combining a rich past with a promising future, making it a city worth visiting and exploring.
