Riyadh city is the capital of Riyadh Province, and also couples up as the capital city and the most populated city of
Saudi Arabia. The city has been named a global city and remains the leading financial hub in Saudi Arabia.
Riyadh has a stunning cityscape, complete with tall modern glass skyscrapers and great sight-seeing spots around the city. On top of that, some preserved ancient buildings add to the outstanding cityscape making it even more attractive from a high observatory point.
The Kingdom Centre stands at three hundred and two meters high, complete with forty-one stories, making one of the most beautiful skyscrapers in Riyadh, with a sky bridge that connects the two twin towers as well as coupling up as an observatory spot. The Al Faisaliah Center is another modern architecture, measuring a high two hundred and sixty-seven meters, complete with a glassy summit at the very top. The ancient contrast is brought about by the historically rich Deira District that is home to the iconic Masmak Fort. The Masmak Fort is famous for being the site that gave Al Saud control over Riyadh.
Within the surroundings of a beautiful nature park, there stands the majestic King Abdul Aziz Historical Center, one of Riyadh's beautiful attraction spots. Nearby, the iconic Murabba Palace stands in its grandeur, a stunning citadel that dates back into the mid-twentieth century. The National Museum, with new incorporations and designs, is housed within this mighty complex. The museum displays artifacts that showcase the historical and cultural development of the Arabs as back as into prehistoric times.
Both the outstanding Kingdom Center and the iconic Al Faisaliah are home to some of the best high-end shopping malls and fashion stores, featuring both local and international designs.
For local art and craft pieces, as well as other market wares, the Deira's Souq al-Thumairi has much to offer, including jewelry and other precious things visitors need.
The Royal Saudi Air Force Museum showcases classic aircraft machines for the public to view.
Among other outdoor sports, Riyadh has numerous well-manicured Gold courses in its suburban outskirts for tourists to play, enjoy, and relax.
The loveliest time to visit Riyadh is between
November and
March. During this period, the temperature is mild and tolerable, and the rain only comes in showers and occasionally. Between
May and
September, the temperature shoots high, and most days are extremely hot and humid, typical of a hot desert climate. There are periodical dust storms during summer, and they can be so thick as to reduce visibility to as low as ten meters only. Visitors are advised to remain careful so as not to fall victim.
An essential festival in Riyadh is the Janadriyah. It is celebrated every
February or March on varying dates. The festivities include camel racing competitions, arts, and music presentations like the operetta, as well as the colorful Al Ardah traditional folk dancing. The intended goal of this festival is to celebrate and appreciate traditional culture and heritage, to preserve talent, and understand the history of the people.