Situated in central Saudi Arabia, Riyadh Province offers loads of culture in and outside the capital, centuries of history and unique views from the Edge of the World and beyond.
Welcome to Riyadh, the birthplace of modern Saudi Arabia, where old-world charm meets 21st-century vision. Riyadh translates to “the Gardens,” a reference to the area’s past that dates back to the 14th century, when the land was revered for its fertile soil, many canals and trees.
Today, Riyadh Province, also known as Al Wosta, is home to the country’s capital: a modern metropolis with a thriving financial and business center and a growing cultural scene. It’s a city rich in history, boasting myriad forts, palaces and museums, and some of the country’s most colorful souqs. It’s also home to the country’s oldest university, King Saud University, plus one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers, Kingdom Centre, and more than 4,000 mosques.
The wider region also offers a wealth of attractions, including Diriyah, the original capital of the first Saudi state. This must-see area is just northwest of the capital and is home to a carefully restored mud-brick district known as At-Turaif. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, the quarter offers a glimpse into the country’s extraordinary heritage. Stroll through its living museum featuring exhibition galleries sprinkled throughout the ruins for a dose of history and education. While in the area, also make time to visit the restaurants and cafés that are opening along the twisting lanes of the nearby Al Bujairy district.
Those in search of tranquility can head north of the city to the Edge of the World, where the sprawling Tuwaiq escarpment offers heart-stopping views over the arid plains below.
As the former home and court of King Abdul Aziz, Riyadh's Al Murabba Palace is a monument to the city’s past.
Welcome to Diriyah, birthplace of the first Saudi state, historical crossroads of pilgrims and traders.
Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh is a modern-day metropolis, complete with towering skyscrapers and a 99-floor sky bridge.
Set aside a day to explore centuries of Arabian prehistory, history and culture.
Hidden in the heart of the Najd, an oasis-dotted region 200 km northwest of Riyadh, lies Ushaiger Heritage Village.
As the former home and court of King Abdul Aziz, Riyadh's Al Murabba Palace is a monument to the city’s past.
Welcome to Diriyah, birthplace of the first Saudi state, historical crossroads of pilgrims and traders.
Saudi Arabia’s capital Riyadh is a modern-day metropolis, complete with towering skyscrapers and a 99-floor sky bridge.
Set aside a day to explore centuries of Arabian prehistory, history and culture.
Hidden in the heart of the Najd, an oasis-dotted region 200 km northwest of Riyadh, lies Ushaiger Heritage Village.
Trade the city for the forest with an overnight camping trip to this beautiful reserve.
Enjoy sensational views from the 99th floor of this Riyadh skyscraper.
A treasure trove of items unearthed from key archaeological sites across the kingdom and a direct link to the country’s past.
Saudi Arabia’s cultural scene is evolving and nowhere is this more apparent than in its capital with its thriving arts scene.
When it comes to sport in Saudi Arabia, football is the main event.
If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, Al Kharrarah National Park should be top of your list.
The Edge of the World is aptly named and can be reached through a trail that runs along a ridge of the Tuwaiq escarpment.
Find an enticing undercurrent of Riyadh's concept stores to explore.
If Riyadh wasn’t your first pick for an up-close encounter with a cheetah, a trip to Nofa Wildlife Park can change your mind.
Trade the city for the forest with an overnight camping trip to this beautiful reserve.
Enjoy sensational views from the 99th floor of this Riyadh skyscraper.
A treasure trove of items unearthed from key archaeological sites across the kingdom and a direct link to the country’s past.
Saudi Arabia’s cultural scene is evolving and nowhere is this more apparent than in its capital with its thriving arts scene.
When it comes to sport in Saudi Arabia, football is the main event.
If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, Al Kharrarah National Park should be top of your list.
The Edge of the World is aptly named and can be reached through a trail that runs along a ridge of the Tuwaiq escarpment.
Find an enticing undercurrent of Riyadh's concept stores to explore.
If Riyadh wasn’t your first pick for an up-close encounter with a cheetah, a trip to Nofa Wildlife Park can change your mind.
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