Details

📍 Location & Meaning of the Name

• Riyadh (pronounced Ar-Riyāḍ) means “gardens” or “meadows” in Arabic, from the root rawdah, referring to fertile land and oasis greenery in the desert.
• The city lies in central Saudi Arabia, on the Najd plateau, at about 600 m above sea level.

🏛 History

• Riyadh’s site has been inhabited for centuries; it developed from the oasis town Hajr (7th century CE), an important settlement of the Banū Hanīfah tribe.
• In the 18th century, it rose to prominence under the First Saudi State (1744), associated with the alliance between Muhammad ibn Saud and Sheikh Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab.
• In 1902, King Abdulaziz Al Saud captured Riyadh, making it the base for the unification of the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (founded in 1932).
• Since then, Riyadh has transformed into a modern political, economic, and cultural hub, home to ministries, embassies, and global businesses.

🌤 Weather & Climate

• Riyadh has a hot desert climate (BWh).
• Summers: extremely hot, often above 40–45 °C.
• Winters: mild and pleasant, with daytime temps around 15–25 °C, but nights can be chilly.
• Rainfall is scarce and irregular, usually in March–April.
• Best time to visit: October–April.

👥 People & Culture

• Population: about 7.5 million (2022), making it the largest city in Saudi Arabia.
• A cosmopolitan mix of Saudis, expatriates, and migrant workers from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.
• Culture: deeply rooted in Islamic and Bedouin traditions, yet increasingly modern with global influences.
• Social life emphasizes family gatherings, religious practices, and hospitality.

🏞 Best Places to Visit

• Masmak Fortress – historic clay fort where King Abdulaziz began the Saudi unification.
• National Museum of Saudi Arabia – showcases Arabian history from pre-Islamic to modern times.
• Al Murabba Palace – traditional royal residence.
• Kingdom Centre Tower & Sky Bridge – iconic skyscraper with panoramic views.
• Al Diriyah (At-Turaif District, UNESCO site) – birthplace of the Saudi state, with restored mudbrick palaces and cultural venues.
• Wadi Hanifah – natural valley with parks and picnic spots.
• Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn) – dramatic desert cliffs about 90 km from the city.

🍽 Food

• Local cuisine features Kabsa (rice with spiced meat), Jareesh (cracked wheat dish), and dates with Arabic coffee.
• International dining is widespread, from fine dining to global chains.
• Traditional souks like Souq Al-Zal offer spices, perfumes, and street food.

🎭 What It Offers Tourists

• History & heritage: forts, palaces, museums, UNESCO sites.
• Modern attractions: luxury malls, high-rise towers, theme parks.
• Cultural immersion: festivals, souks, traditional Najdi architecture.
• Nature & adventure: desert safaris, hikes to Edge of the World, and valleys around Riyadh.
• Events: Riyadh Season (entertainment & cultural festival), concerts, and international exhibitions.