Travel

Riyadh

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia includes 13 administrative regions (Emirates), and each Emirate includes a number of governorates and centres. Riyadh is one of these regions and has 19 governorates and Riyadh City is the capital of Saudi Arabia.
Riyadh Region is located in the centre of Saudi Arabia occupying 17% of the Kingdom’s area and 22.63% of the Kingdom’s population is based there. Riyadh’s climate is hot and dry in summer, cold in winter.
Riyadh is a privileged capital which is expanding dynamically to accommodate various inhabitants. It is linked to other Regions through a modern international airport. Riyadh is a great example of a modern city which improves services constantly while maintaining its cultural mark.
The capital occupies political, economic and cultural value since it was revived by King Abdulaziz Al-Saud – May Allah Have Mercy On Him – in the 15th of January 1902.

Riyadh accommodation
Riyadh is a modern city and prosperous one and there are many good hotels to choose from. Most of the hotels are big budget, but economical tourist hostels and some inexpensive hotels are also present though services are going to be affected accordingly.

The National Museum in Riyadh
The National Museum was established to become a national landmark Kingdom wide and to contribute in enriching the course of education, cultural enlightment, development of belongingness and to become an eternal message.
The museum occupies an area of seventeen thousand meters on the eastern side of King Abdulaziz Historic Center, however the total area of its two-storey building in twenty eight thousand sq. meters.
The museum offers a modern educational environment for different community strata and different levels of education.  Displayed items are diversified to include antiques, documents, manuscripts, display board, in addition to the use of modern aids and documentaries.
The museum is distinguished for the integrity of its presentations, presenting a serial topic about the beginning of the creation of the universe up to the present time where the Arab Peninsula represents the pivot.  Each hall is unique in presenting an objective integrated & independent presentation.
The museum is composed of eight main presentation halls arranged in successive historical order so that the visitor can enter through an architectural design that consider the time chronology.
The museum has two presentation halls, a permanent and temporary one in addition to administrative offices, stores, public service facilities for the visitors and museum staff.

What to do in Riyadh
Not much is there to do or see in the city. Excursions around and inside the city are the most potent option and that should be engaged in first. Riyadh is a good place to enjoy Saudi food and there are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy it. Shopping can be another good option if it is a passion for it.

Weather and Best Season to Visit in Riyadh
The climate of Riyadh is Arid and it is hot most of the time in the year with little or no rain. Best time to visit is from November to February when the climate is mild. Thunderstorm can occur at the evenings and that makes the evenings cool.

Visitting places in Riyadh
Al Bathaa
Al Bathaa is the heart of the city and also the oldest part. Most of the tourist needs are fulfilled here as it is home to the most facilities like bus stand, shopping area, post office, and banks.
Riyadh Zoo
Originally formed in 1957, the zoo has been renovated recently. Though, not of much interest to the foreigners, it is a popular leisure centre in the city.
Masmak Fortress
The fortress was built around 1865; it has been renovated and made attractive to the tourists coming in. The traditional Diwan (sitting room of the king), which has been reconstructed recently, is a major attraction.
Riyadh Museum
The museum in Riyadh is located near Al Bathaa and showcases the chapters from the history of the city. You can also ask for permits to visit all other museum in the country apart from eastern region from this museum.
Al Thumairi Gate
This is one of the nine gates in the city, before the city walls were torn down in 1950. A new gate has been constructed just across the road.
Diplomatic Quarter
This is the seat of government and the place where most of the offices and foreign embassies are located. It is also the place where major conference and conventions are organised.

Riyadh Shopping
Large shopping complexes selling commodities of every hue, colour, and need are located in the main market areas of the city.