Riyadh, the Kingdom's capital, is a wealthy city having undergone massive development during Saudi Arabia's oil boom. The city is known as a world of contradictions and is very modern, sprawling with skyscrapers and expensive hotels. It is a place where the past meets the modern. It is a city where visitors can shop, be entertained, and attend events and festivals throughout the year. Riyadh is a tourist destination and a commercial center for visitors seeking true Arabian hospitality. Tourists can shop in the finest malls housing the world's best brands, eat at fantastic restaurants and luxury cafés, and spend quality time at the city's historic sites, gardens and parks. Al-Masmak Palace: Al-Masmak Palace (Qasr Al-Masmak) is a remnant of the historical time when the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was established. It tells the story of the beginning of the unification of the Kingdom. The documentary shown inside depicts past historical events. Visitors are able to admire the palace's architectural style and the various monuments within. The weapons and attire of ancient kings on display are impressive and worthy of admiration. The most noted feature is the quoted saying of King Abdul Aziz to his countrymen, “First from God then from my belief in my people I drive my strength. With the Book of God (Al-Quran) in their hearts and the sword in their hands, my people fight tirelessly in the cause of God. Their strength lies neither in multitudes nor in equipment, but it lies in their faith. My people and I are one; I never consider myself theirs and I do not do anything except what is good for them.” Al-Zal Market: The Al-Zal Heritage Market is located near the Muumak Palace. Here, you can find a range of products, crafts and handicrafts in addition to traditional Saudi costumes such as the Mashaleh, swords and traditional carpets. You can also buy souvenirs and antiques.
King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Park: Kingdom Park is the largest place to relax for people in Riyadh. It is home to landscaped gardens, lakes, play areas, walkways, a restaurant and a café, which makes it a complete place for family outings. The park is on an area totaling 318, 000 square meters of green space, and is home to the largest fountain of its kind in the Kingdom, which shoots water up to over 110 meters and can be seen from a distance. The fountain also includes high-tech lasers which cause the water to change shape and move around, making the display enjoyable to watch and unique. After a long day and busy routines, this park is the best place for the family to relax and revive itself. The musical fountain adds to the beauty and makes the visit enjoyable. Salam Park: Salam Park is one of the finest parks in Riyadh and worth visiting. It is considered the most recently built and includes a large lake that makes the park more fun. Visitors can also take advantage of a range of recreational games on offer in the park. The park is located in downtown Riyadh, south of the Al-Hokom Palace on Tariq bin Ziad Street.
Faisaliah and Kingdom Towers: These two towers are the tallest in Riyadh. The towers are located in the Al-Olaya area in the commercial strip of Riyadh. They are the most prominent landmarks in the city and also have dedicated floors through which you can view the complete city in full. They also offer visitors the opportunity to view Riyadh's beautiful sunset. The towers also contain markets and restaurants as well as high luxury hotels. Prince Salman Park land: Prince Salman Park is located in the north of the city in the northwest corner of the King Khaled International airport. The paved park contains a natural park, a safari park, camping areas for both families and singles, chalets and a games area. It is situated in a plot of land nearly 3.5 million square meters (PLEASE CHECK THIS). The site is also home to an archaeological site and home to beautiful trees and wild plants that enhance the beauty of the location. The park is divided into two parts—the north and the south—which are separated by a valley. The southern part offers visitors an opportunity to go hiking, play games and hold festivals. The northern part is exclusively for camping.
Wadi Haneefah: Hanifa Valley is a an excellent place to have a picnic and spend quality time in a scenic location. The valley has different parts including the Al'elb Dam Park, the Wadi Haneefah Dam Park, the Al-Hajari Dam Park, the Al-Masane Lake Park and the Al-Jaza'a Lake Park. All of the parks contain benches for hikers, walking trails and car parking facilities.
Children's Entertainment: There are many of entertainment facilities in Riyadh to keep children busy. These facilities are situated in malls and shopping centers that provide children with a stylish, fun and safe environment to be entertained.
Shopping in Riyadh: For shoppers, there is a variety of shopping malls in Riyadh. There are many types of global and local commercial brands on sale, together with recreational centers, and different restaurants that offer a private environment to give visitors an unforgettable experience.
Riyadh's Restaurants and Cafés: In Riyadh you'll find delicious restaurants and cafés in pleasant and environments. You can find a variety of international restaurants providing a range of eastern, Indian, Italian and Chinese food, as well as restaurants that cater for traditional tastes. The cafés are spread all over the city emitting the aroma of embracing coffee, leaving a trail through the city's streets and roads.
Riyadh Zoo: The city's zoo is located in the Malaz district of Riyadh on Al-Ahsa Road. Riyadh Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in the Kingdom. Families, especially children, will be amazed by the diversity of animals on offer. The zoo also consists of resting areas for families, restaurants, shopping areas and entertainment for entire families.
Safari Trips: Taking a safari is very enjoyable when in Riyadh, especially when the climate is cool. People can enjoy the scenery of the sand dunes and partake in desert sports such as biking, and horse and camel riding.
Riyadh Path Heritage: A visit to the center of the old city of Riyadh is extremely interesting. Here visitors can see Saudi heritage and culture. Visitors will also be able to see the heritage of Riyadh, models of urban Najd, old workmanship, handmade handicrafts and delicious foods.
National Museum: King Abdul Aziz Memorial Hall is located at the King Abdul Aziz Historical Center in Al-Murabba'a district which contains information about the life of the Kingdom's founder in addition to the historical events that took place during his time. The hall is also home to his library containing his own collections.
Al-Murabba'a palace: This was the private residence of King Abdul Aziz where he managed state affairs. Visitors can learn about the palace's historical position and method of construction. It is located at King Abdul Aziz Historical Center in the Al-Murabba'a district of downtown Riyadh.
Saqr Al Jazeera Museum: Saqr Al-Jazeera Museum is located on the Eastern Ring Road. Here, you can learn the story of the historic development of aviation in the Kingdom. On view is a group of old and modern aircrafts.
