Riyadh

Once a tiny desert oasis, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital and most populous city, is a center of intriguing history, bustling business and fascinating architectural feats. From modern skyscrapers to historic fortresses and scenic parks, Riyadh offers a captivating landscape to explore.

GETTING THERE & AROUND

International flights arrive at King Khalid International Airport, about 30 minutes from city center. Taxis and rideshare services (Uber, Bolt and Careem) provide transportation to and from the airport, and rental cars are available. SAFWA Taxi is the only authorized company to operate at Riyadh Airport, charging from about $18 for the trip to downtown. The Riyadh Metro project is slated to launch partial operations in September. Visitors can also get around the city by taxi or rideshare.

LODGING

Al Mashreq Boutique Hotel

The first luxury boutique hotel in Riyadh blends traditional Arabian architectural style and contemporary décor. This cool retreat in the heart of the city offers elegant guestrooms and suites, a comprehensive spa and fitness center, a gourmet restaurant and a tea lounge.

Orubah Street and Prince Turky Alawwal Road, Riyadh 11458, Saudi Arabia, tel 966 11 283 4777 almashreq.sa

Burj Rafal Riyadh, A Marriott International Hotel

One of the tallest hotels in the world, the 5-star Burj Rafal offers quiet luxury and stunning city views. Each of the 349 spacious rooms and suites features stylish modern Najdi architecture, state-of-the-art technology and a luxurious marble bathroom with full-sized bathtub.

King Fahd Road, Sahafah District, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia, tel 966 11 511 7777 marriott.com

The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh

Guests receive the royal treatment at the palatial Ritz-Carlton. Enjoy the lavish suites, world-class spa, stunning indoor pool and exceptional dining options serving dishes from around the globe. The property offers spacious venues for corporate events and celebrations.

Al Hada Area, Mekkah Road, Riyadh 11493, Saudi Arabia, tel 966 11 802 8020 ritzcarlton.com

Step Back in Time: Al Masmak Fortress

PHOTO: © MANFRED THUERIG | DREAMSTIME.COM

DINING

Elements

Elements sources the freshest ingredients to present authentic dishes from China, Japan, India and the Middle East. The popular Friday brunch features food stations serving Arabic, Western, Indian, Japanese and Chinese delicacies.

Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, Kingdom Centre, King Fahd Road, Riyadh 11321, Saudi Arabia, tel 966 11 211 5500 fourseasons.com

The Globe

Enjoy panoramic views at The Globe, perched atop Al Faisaliah Tower in a gold geodesic orb. The finedining menu of modern European cuisine, worldclass service and the unique vantage point combine to create a most memorable experience.

Al Faisaliah Hotel, King Fahd Branch Road, Al Faisaliah Tower, The Geodesic Orb، Riyadh 12212, Saudi Arabia, tel 966 11 273 2005 mandarinoriental.com/ riyadh

Najd Village

Serving Najd cuisine since 1996, Najd Village is the best place to sample authentic Saudi Arabian cuisine in a setting rich with history and heritage. Discover delicious and diverse dishes from the region, served in a traditional ambience with majlis-style seating (floor sofas).

Al Olaya, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia, tel 966 9200 33511 najdvillage.com ATTRACTIONS

Al Kharrarah National Park

Plan a day at one of Saudi Arabia’s national treasures. The valley comprises craggy rock formations, sweeping sand dunes and, in the rainy season, the tranquil Lake Kharrarah. Even in the dry season, the valley retains its beauty. Enjoy a day of dune-bashing, sand boarding, kite flying and picnicking.

Al Masmak Fortress

Tour the clay and mud-brick 19th-century fortress from which King Abdulaziz Al Saud united the kingdoms and provinces that make up modern-day Saudi Arabia. View early maps and photographs of Saudi Arabia, historical artifacts and works of art. Next to the fortress, Souq Al Zal sells traditional handicrafts, jewelry and spices. The fortress is open 8 a.m. to noon and 4–9 p.m. every day except Friday; Mondays and Wednesdays are reserved for families.

Kingdom Centre SkyBridge

Atop the Kingdom Centre’s 984-foot-high tower, the SkyBridge commands a remarkable view of Riyadh. The ascent is as exhilarating as the view, with two elevator trips zipping visitors to the SkyBridge in about 90 seconds.

King Fahad Road, Riyadh 11321, Saudi Arabia, tel 966 11 211 2222 kingdomcentre.com.sa

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