Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – from Crystal's Perspective
"In the hearts of foreign cultures, I find shared dreams and aspirations." Gertrude Bell
4/8/20246 min read
At the time of writing this, I had lived in Riyadh for 2.5 years. Our time in Saudi Arabia coincided with the lifting of Covid restrictions, and I witnessed a significant transformation in the city from my arrival to my departure. Riyadh is investing in its tourism industry, necessitating changes. Leaders recognized that foreign visitors would be deterred by the strict control of the Mutawa, the religious police. When I first arrived, wearing a black abaya and leaving my platinum blond hair uncovered drew heavy stares from the men. However, as I spent more time in Riyadh over the years, I gradually felt less out of place. By the time we left, many expats were pushing the boundaries of social norms, and the city was becoming more inclusive and welcoming. While Saudi women still dress modestly in black abayas, and men wear traditional thobes and ghutras, the city was evolving.
Initially, when I searched for activities online, most recommendations centered around the shopping malls. Riyadh boasts numerous malls, providing a refuge from the intense summer heat. However, cultural attractions are now emerging for tourists to explore.
My top recommendation for visitors is a visit to Masmak Fort or Masmak Palace. This historical site offers insights into Riyadh and Saudi Arabia's history. The museum is well-curated and conveniently situated near the city square and a bustling souq where you can browse through alleyways and shop for souvenirs. The souq offers a variety of items, including saffron, rugs, traditional clothing, sandals, and more.
Another must-visit location is the Old City, Al Diriyah. While still under development, the At-Turaif World Heritage Site and Bujairi Terrace are accessible, offering a fascinating day trip in Northwestern Riyadh. This area provides a glimpse into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's past, featuring an unearthed palace. For more information on Diriyah Season and entrance fees, visit www.diryah.sa. Reservations are recommended for the area's restaurants, as they are quite popular.
Honorable Mentions:
1. Kingdom Tower within Kingdom Centre, adjacent to the Four Seasons, offers a breathtaking view of the city from the skybridge. It is recommended to visit in the evening when Riyadh illuminates the night sky. Dining options include Spazio on the 77th floor or the Four Seasons restaurant. Kingdom Center Mall provides a high-end shopping experience, and a new cafeteria-style eatery called Al Mamlaka Social Dining has received positive reviews.
2. The Globe restaurant at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah requires reservations for access. The restaurant opens at 7 pm, except on Fridays and Saturdays when you can enjoy Tea Time from 3-6 pm. The views of the city, particularly at sunset, are spectacular. There is also a mall nearby.
My favorite times to visit Saudi Arabia are in November and early December when the weather is pleasant, evenings are cool, and the flowers are in full bloom. Avoid visiting during the Holy Month of Ramadan when most establishments are closed during the day, and public eating and drinking are restricted.
For women visitors, it is advisable to dress modestly in comfortable, loose-fitting attire that covers your arms and legs. As a non-Muslim woman, I never covered my head but had kimono-like coverings to layer over my outfits. Leave your daisy dukes at home!
At the time of writing this, I had lived in Riyadh for 2.5 years. Our time in Saudi Arabia coincided with the lifting of Covid restrictions, and I witnessed a significant transformation in the city from my arrival to my departure. Riyadh is investing in its tourism industry, necessitating changes. Leaders recognized that foreign visitors would be deterred by the strict control of the Mutawa, the religious police. When I first arrived, wearing a black abaya and leaving my platinum blond hair uncovered drew heavy stares from the men. However, as I spent more time in Riyadh over the years, I gradually felt less out of place. By the time we left, many expats were pushing the boundaries of social norms, and the city was becoming more inclusive and welcoming. While Saudi women still dress modestly in black abayas, and men wear traditional thobes and ghutras, the city was evolving.
Initially, when I searched for activities online, most recommendations centered around the shopping malls. Riyadh boasts numerous malls, providing a refuge from the intense summer heat. However, cultural attractions are now emerging for tourists to explore.
My top recommendation for visitors is a visit to Masmak Fort or Masmak Palace. This historical site offers insights into Riyadh and Saudi Arabia's history. The museum is well-curated and conveniently situated near the city square and a bustling souq where you can browse through alleyways and shop for souvenirs. The souq offers a variety of items, including saffron, rugs, traditional clothing, sandals, and more.
Another must-visit location is the Old City, Al Diriyah. While still under development, the At-Turaif World Heritage Site and Bujairi Terrace are accessible, offering a fascinating day trip in Northwestern Riyadh. This area provides a glimpse into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's past, featuring an unearthed palace. For more information on Diriyah Season and entrance fees, visit www.diryah.sa. Reservations are recommended for the area's restaurants, as they are quite popular.
Honorable Mentions:
1. Kingdom Tower within Kingdom Centre, adjacent to the Four Seasons, offers a breathtaking view of the city from the skybridge. It is recommended to visit in the evening when Riyadh illuminates the night sky. Dining options include Spazio on the 77th floor or the Four Seasons restaurant. Kingdom Center Mall provides a high-end shopping experience, and a new cafeteria-style eatery called Al Mamlaka Social Dining has received positive reviews.
2. The Globe restaurant at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah requires reservations for access. The restaurant opens at 7 pm, except on Fridays and Saturdays when you can enjoy Tea Time from 3-6 pm. The views of the city, particularly at sunset, are spectacular. There is also a mall nearby.
My favorite times to visit Saudi Arabia are in November and early December when the weather is pleasant, evenings are cool, and the flowers are in full bloom. Avoid visiting during the Holy Month of Ramadan when most establishments are closed during the day, and public eating and drinking are restricted.
For women visitors, it is advisable to dress modestly in comfortable, loose-fitting attire that covers your arms and legs. As a non-Muslim woman, I never covered my head but had kimono-like coverings to layer over my outfits. Leave your daisy dukes at home!
