Complete Travel Guide to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for First-Time Visitors

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is one of the Middle East’s most fascinating and rapidly transforming cities. Historically conservative and deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, Riyadh is now opening up to the world with an ambitious cultural and tourism boom. From UNESCO World Heritage sites and glittering skyscrapers to desert adventures and modern art installations, Riyadh offers an unforgettable blend of old and new.

If you're planning your first trip to the Kingdom’s heart, this complete travel guide to Riyadh will help you navigate everything — from visa requirements to must-see attractions, local customs, where to stay, how to get around, and what to eat.

Getting to Riyadh

Riyadh is served by King Khalid International Airport (RUH), located about 35 km (22 miles) north of the city center. The airport has direct flights from major hubs such as London, Dubai, Istanbul, Frankfurt, Doha, and New York.

- Visa Requirements: Most tourists need an eVisa, which can be easily obtained online in under 10 minutes through the official Saudi tourism portal.
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time is between November and March, when daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F), making it perfect for outdoor exploration.

Where to Stay in Riyadh

Riyadh offers everything from ultra-luxury 5-star hotels to more affordable mid-range stays. Here's a quick breakdown by area:

Diplomatic Quarter (Al-Safarat)
- Perfect for: upscale travelers, diplomats, and quiet surroundings
- Top Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh

Olaya District
- Perfect for: shopping, business travelers, and nightlife
- Top Hotel: Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya

Al Murabba
- Perfect for: cultural access (near museums and historical sites)
- Mid-range Gem: Braira Hotel

Top Attractions in Riyadh

1. Masmak Fortress
Built in 1865, this mud-brick fort is where King Abdulaziz recaptured Riyadh, an event that marked the unification of Saudi Arabia. It now serves as a museum and symbol of Saudi heritage.

2. National Museum of Saudi Arabia
Located in the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, this world-class museum walks you through the Kingdom's history, archaeology, and Islamic heritage. A must for first-time visitors.

3. Kingdom Centre Tower
You can’t miss the iconic skyline — and from the 99th floor Sky Bridge, you'll get panoramic views of Riyadh. The tower also houses luxury shopping and restaurants.

4. Al-Turaif District (Diriyah)
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Diriyah is the original home of the Saudi royal family. Restoration efforts have turned this into a stunning open-air museum and cultural complex.

5. Al Rajhi Grand Mosque
One of the largest mosques in Saudi Arabia, open to non-Muslims during certain guided tours. Check in advance with local tour operators.

Hidden Gems & Local Experiences

- Wadi Hanifah: A scenic 120-km valley popular for picnics and evening strolls. Locals flock here during weekends.
- Souq Al Zal: Riyadh's oldest traditional market where you can buy antiques, rugs, spices, and Saudi daggers (janbiya).
- The Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn): A dramatic cliff formation about 90 minutes from the city — a popular weekend trip for hikers and photographers.

What to Eat in Riyadh

Saudi cuisine blends Bedouin tradition with Middle Eastern flavors. Here are must-try dishes and restaurants:

Dishes to Try
- Kabsa: Rice with lamb or chicken, spiced with cardamom, saffron, and cloves.
- Mandi: Similar to Kabsa but cooked underground over hot coals.
- Mutabbaq: A savory stuffed pancake filled with meat, egg, and herbs.
- Dates & Arabic Coffee: Offered as a gesture of hospitality — you’ll find them everywhere.

Notable Restaurants
- Najd Village: A beautifully themed spot serving traditional Saudi dishes in a heritage setting.
- The Globe: A fine-dining restaurant in the glass orb atop the Al Faisaliah Tower.
- Nozomi Riyadh: For upscale Japanese fusion in a modern, social atmosphere.

Getting Around Riyadh

- Ride-Hailing Apps: Uber and Careem are widely used and affordable.
- Metro: Riyadh Metro is partially operational as of 2025 and expanding fast. It’s modern and efficient but still limited in coverage.
- Taxis: Available but generally more expensive and often cash-only.
- Car Rentals: Available at the airport, but note that traffic can be intense and signage may be only in Arabic.

Cultural Etiquette & Safety

Saudi Arabia is a deeply conservative country, but it’s rapidly modernizing. First-time visitors should be aware of and respect local customs.

Dress Code
- Men: Long pants and shirts with sleeves.
- Women: Modest attire is expected. Headscarf not mandatory for foreigners, but advisable in rural areas or religious sites.

Religious Observance
- Daily prayer times affect business hours — most places close briefly for prayer.
- During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during the day is prohibited.

Safety
Riyadh is very safe, especially for tourists. Crime rates are low, and police presence is high. However, always:
- Avoid public criticism of the government or religion
- Respect privacy when taking photos, especially of people
- Check local news for current laws or curfews

Suggested Itinerary for 3 Days in Riyadh

Day 1 – History & Culture
- Morning: Masmak Fortress & National Museum
- Lunch: Kabsa at Najd Village
- Afternoon: Visit Al-Turaif in Diriyah
- Evening: Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge

Day 2 – Nature & Markets
- Morning: Souq Al Zal
- Lunch: Grab falafel from a local vendor
- Afternoon: Wadi Hanifah walk
- Evening: Rooftop dinner at The Globe

Day 3 – Adventure & Leisure
- Early Morning: Edge of the World hike
- Afternoon: Traditional spa experience
- Dinner: Nozomi Riyadh for modern fusion

Tours & Activities

Want a curated experience? Here are some tour operators offering top-rated excursions:
- Klook Riyadh Tours
- Viator – Riyadh Activities
- Diriyah Gate Development: Official source for heritage site info

Final Travel Tips

- Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in hotels and tourist areas.
- Wi-Fi & SIM Cards: Free Wi-Fi is common in malls and hotels. Buy a SIM at the airport from providers like STC or Mobily.
- Tipping: 10–15% in restaurants is appreciated, though not obligatory.

Riyadh Is Changing — Fast

Riyadh is not the same city it was a decade ago. With Vision 2030 in full swing, the city is hosting concerts, art expos, esports tournaments, and more. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, entrepreneur, or just curious traveler, Riyadh offers a layered experience filled with heritage and innovation.

Now is the perfect time to explore this intriguing city — before it becomes the next global tourism giant.