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Saudi regions

The Riyadh Province

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Culture in Riyadh Province: Art, Business and History of Saudi Arabia

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.

History of Riyadh Province: Diriyah, At-Turaif and Beyond

  • Province of Riyadh

    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.

  • Culture in Saudi Arabia: Riyadh

    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.

What to visit

  • Heritage Diriyah

    Historical Diriyah

    The birthplace of the first Saudi state, historical crossroads of pilgrims, traders, and home to one of the Kingdom’s most ambitious heritage developments.

  • Heritage Riyadh

    The National Museum of Saudi Arabia

    Set aside a day to explore centuries of Arabian prehistory, history, culture and art at the kingdom’s biggest and most entertaining museum.

  • Nature Riyadh Region

    Open skies and campfires at Rawdat Tinhat

    Trade the city for the forest with an overnight camping trip to this beautiful reserve.

  • Nature Riyadh Region

    Discover Al Kharrarah National Park

    Swap the bustling city for rolling desert dunes. Pack up the family and discover the best of one of Riyadh’s natural wonders.

  • Hike Riyadh Region

    Standing on the Edge of the World

    Experience breathtaking cliff-top views: this spectacular spot offers uninterrupted views from the edge of a sheer precipice.

  • Nature Riyadh Region

    On Safari in Riyadh

    This beautiful lodge-style resort is the canvas for an explosion of wildlife, and a rare opportunity to experience a piece of Africa in the Arabian Desert.

  • History Riyadh

    Al Murabba Palace

    The beautiful Murabba Palace is the former home and court of King Abdul Aziz, founder of modern Saudi Arabia, and a monument to the city’s captivating past.

  • History Riyadh

    Tourism in Riyadh: Al Masmak Fortress

    A central point of Saudi Arabian history, the Al Masmak Fortress gives a look into the rich architecture and culture of Riyadh. Uncover more about Riyadh tourism here!

  • Heritage Riyadh Region

    Ushaiger Heritage Village

    Hidden in the heart of the Najd, an oasis-dotted region, Ushaiger Heritage Village provides a glimpse of a slow-paced Saudi society of old.

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Top activities

Cities of Riyadh Province

  • Exploring Riyadh history, culture and food

    Exploring Riyadh history, culture and food

    Often referred to as Saudi’s capital of culture, Riyadh showcases the KSA’s beauty and wonder. Learn more about Riyadh’s history, culture and cuisine.

  • Explore Diriyah

    Explore Diriyah

    Home to one of Saudi’s UNESCO Heritage Sites, Diriyah is a center of Saudi Arabia’s rich history. Here’s what you won’t want to miss while in Diriyah!

Browse through Riyadh's gallery

    Panoramic view of Riyadh city
    Panoramic view of Riyadh city

    Al Masmak Fortress
    Al Masmak Fortress

    Al Murabba Palace
    Al Murabba Palace

    Diriyah
    Diriyah

    Edge of the World
    Edge of the World

    Rawdat Tinhat
    Rawdat Tinhat

    Al Kharrarah National Park
    Al Kharrarah National Park

  • Panoramic view of Riyadh city
  • Al Masmak Fortress
  • Al Murabba Palace
  • Diriyah
  • Edge of the World
  • Rawdat Tinhat
  • Al Kharrarah National Park
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The Riyadh Province

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