Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, and the seat of the Saudi government. It sits on the central Najd plateau and has grown rapidly over the past decades into a major metropolitan area, driven by the country’s oil wealth and, more recently, by Vision 2030 development projects.
The city is the Kingdom’s commercial and financial hub, home to major government ministries, international corporate offices, and business districts such as the King Abdullah Financial District. It also hosts large-scale events throughout the year, including Riyadh Season, which draws visitors from across the region.
For business and leisure travelers alike, Riyadh combines a fast-growing modern skyline with historic sites just outside the city center, making reliable, comfortable ground transport an important part of getting around efficiently.
One of Riyadh’s most recognizable skyscrapers, known for its distinctive arch at the top and Sky Bridge observation deck.
99 floors, 302m tall • Olaya District
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of the First Saudi State, being developed into a major cultural and lifestyle destination just outside central Riyadh.
UNESCO site since 2010 • 15 min from downtown
A historic clay and mudbrick fort central to the founding of modern Saudi Arabia in 1902.
Built c. 1865 • Al-Dirah, old Riyadh
Riyadh’s modern financial and business district, known for its striking contemporary architecture.
1.6M sqm • North Riyadh
A major museum covering the history, culture, and heritage of the Arabian Peninsula.
Part of King Abdulaziz Historical Center
Saudi Arabia’s flagship annual entertainment festival, running across the winter months with concerts, world-class events, and themed zones across the city.
Runs Oct – Feb annually
A large open-air entertainment and retail district in the Riyadh Boulevard area, with shops, restaurants, live shows, and major concerts during Riyadh Season.
JAX / Riyadh Boulevard district
A themed Riyadh Season zone recreating landmarks and cultures from cities around the world, with international food, entertainment, and pavilions.
Seasonal, part of Riyadh Season
Saudi Arabia’s giga-project entertainment city in the Tuwaiq Mountains, home to Six Flags Qiddiya — one of the world’s largest theme parks.
≈ 40 min from central Riyadh
