Best Cultural Attractions in Riyadh

Discover the top cultural attractions in the city of Riyadh

There is more to Riyadh than business and shopping. With three world-class museums and plenty of other interesting attractions, there is something for everyone. Here are our top picks for things to do in Riyadh when you want to experience the culture of this fascinating city.

Aviation Museum

The Saqr Aljazeera Aviation Museum tells the history of the Royal Saudi Air Force from its founding in the 1920s until now. The museum contains a combination of real and model planes, as well as explanatory films, aircraft equipment and simulators which the whole family will enjoy using.

Al Kharrarah National Park

If you feel like taking a day trip out of Riyadh, Al Kharrarah National Park should be at the top of your list. The park features craggy rock formations and sweeping sand dunes and is also home to the beautiful Lake Kharrarah, also known as the 'Lake of Liquid Light'. The lake, which was formed as a result of excessive rainfall during the wet season, is a peaceful place to unwind and relax in the midst of red-hued hills. You can also swim when the water is deep enough.

The National Museum Riyadh

At the Kingdom's most interesting museum, set aside a day to learn about hundreds of years of Arabian history, culture, and art. The National Museum of Riyadh is the largest museum in the country and tells the story of Saudi Arabia from prehistory to the present day. The exhibits are beautifully presented and there is a lot of information available in English as well as Arabic.

The Folklore Museum

Riyadh’s other museums include the Folklore Museum, which showcases traditional crafts, antiquities and folklore. Costumes, weapons, and gold dagger scabbards, as well as mail stamps and ceramic utensils, give a glimpse into Arab life and culture here. A tent - a replica of the Musmak Castle with inscriptions from the Quran etched on it - is what attracts visitors' attention in particular.

The King Abdullah Malaz Park

Because the city's summers are lengthy and extremely hot, most individuals choose to spend their leisure time indoors. However, when the temperature is lower during the cooler months, Riyadh has some great cultural activities outdoors.

The King Abdullah Malaz Park (KAMP) is a huge park with 318,000 square meters of space hosting cafeterias, a restaurant, several play areas for youngsters, sports facilities and a pedestrian walkway that wraps around sections of hills. There is an entrance fee, which keeps the crowds smaller than those at other parks and makes it ideal for families.

Souq Al Zal

The most famous market in the city is the Souq Al Zal, which has remained as vibrant as it was more than a century ago. Traditional Saudi products such as dallah coffee pots and mabkhara incense burners can be found here, as well as unusual handicrafts and ancient relics. It's the perfect place to visit if you are looking for some souvenirs to take home to your family or friends.

The Edge of the World

Jebel Fihrayn, better known as The Edge of the World, is a desert trek located outside the city, 90 kilometres from Riyadh. It's a fantastic opportunity to get some fresh air and see Riyadh from a different cultural perspective.

The Edge of the World offers a variety of hikes that range from moderate to strenuous, culminating in an outstanding viewpoint. Its tremendous cliffs plunge down to reveal a valley that extends out towards a seemingly limitless horizon.

Tip: Visit the trek on a clear winter day. It's not a good idea to go during the summertime due to the heat of the desert.

Al Masmak Fortress

Al Masmak Fortress, built in 1865 and meticulously maintained, is a huge clay and mud-brick citadel that is popular among tourists wanting to explore Saudi's roots. In 1902, King Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia captured the citadel and took control of Riyadh which was his ancestors' home. Following its capture, Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud consolidated the disparate kingdoms and territories that make up the modern-day nation of Saudi Arabia.

Ramadan

During the month of Ramadan, a trip to Riyadh is an unforgettable chance to get in touch with the local culture and customs. The flickering of a copper fanoos lantern, the fragrant smell of burning oud, or the thud of a Musaharati drum is just a few examples of Riyadh's city-wide Ramadan celebrations, which incorporate elements from Hijaz to the Eastern Province as well as some from far further east in the Arabian world.

Restaurants

One of the best ways to get a taste of Riyadh's cultural mix is through its cuisine. Najd Village combines dining and heritage experiences to serve original recipes such as kabsa, jareesh, and hashi. More contemporary options may be found at Takya, which offers Saudi fusion dishes inspired by the country's regions, or Suhail, which adds a modern twist to classic Saudi foods.

Visit Riyadh Mall

Riyadh Mall is one of the largest malls in Saudi Arabia and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. With over 400 stores, Riyadh Mall is the perfect place to find gifts for loved ones back home.

Diriyah

Considered by many to be the “pearl of Saudi Arabia,” Diriyah is becoming a major tourist destination. Home to dining, shopping and plenty of entertainment options, you can easily spend an afternoon exploring here.

There are also plenty of other attractions in Riyadh worth exploring. The city’s old quarter, Al-Balad, is full of winding streets and traditional houses, while the King Fahd Fountain is one of the largest fountains in the world. For something a little different, visit one of Riyadh’s camel markets or go for a drive in the desert.

No matter what time of year you visit Riyadh, there is always something new to see and do. With its rich history and diverse culture, the city offers a unique experience for visitors from all over the world, whether you are looking for things to do in Riyadh for ex-pats, or simply looking for things to do in Riyadh this weekend. So why not book your stay at Fraser Suites Riyadh today? Our serviced apartments offer everything you need to feel right at home.