Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital city, flawlessly combines the country’s rich past with fastly accelerated modernity. From ancient landmarks to lively markets and towering towers, Riyadh provides visitors with diverse experiences. Riyadh offers something to everyone, whether you’re interested in traditions, culture, or thrill activities. Here are the ten best things to do in Riyadh that encapsulate the character of this dynamic metropolis. Islamic Travel has offered some new all-inclusive Cheap Umrah Packages for UK residents Please be quick to avail this opportunity to make your sacred journey memorable.
1. Trekking to the edge of the world
Edge of the World, a 300-meter-high cliff in the Mount Tuwaiq region is one of Riyadh’s most magnificent attractions, famous for its panoramic vistas and spectacular cliffs. This trekking trail has 2 parts; first, trekkers have to cover a 15-kilometer distance on a 4×4 vehicle to the base camp and then trek a 2-hour distance to the top of the cliff on foot. International and local tourists love to hike this geographical wonder, as the view from the top of the cliff attracts visitors the most. The edge of the world is well known for its mesmerizing dawns and dusks, and its coral and fossils amazed the trekkers. While you are visiting Riyadh, this is a must-visit attraction. Bring water and snacks with you.
Timings: 24/7
2. A Day in Riyadh Zoo
Riyadh Zoo also known as Malaz Zoo was built in 1987, and is home to 1500 animals belonging to 196 species, 20000 plants and flowers, and 80 bird species. All the flora and fauna species in the zoo are native to Saudi Arabia while some are international. In the zoo, you can see animals such as gazelles, kangaroos, lions, monkeys, rhinoceros, tapirs, griffon vultures, and hyenas with some endangered wildlife species in Saudi Arabia such as Arabian desert leopard, Houbara Bustard bird, and Arabian Oryx. The setup of the zoo is designed in a way that fits perfectly with the environment and landscape of native wildlife. Visiting Riyadh Zoo can be an enjoyable experience for kids, as they can see a glimpse of their favorite animals and enjoy a train ride in the zoo. In our Umrah Package UK, different deals are available at very affordable prices. We have also offered Umrah Packages 2025 UK for those pilgrims who want to perform the Umrah as well as visit the various Zoos in Riyadh. Go to our website and get your desired deal.
Timings: The Zoo’s hours vary each day of the week. Some are just ‘family days’ when only families are permitted on the premises. Furthermore, certain days are dedicated to males and ladies separately. On Sundays, the zoo remains open.
3. Camping at Wadi Namar dam park
Wadi Namar Dam Park is a verdant region developed 2 km near Namar Dam. It is one of Riyadh’s most popular attractions and picnic areas due to its picturesque views, which provide tourists with a pleasant experience amidst a lush landscape and gorgeous water body. The park includes a dam and an industrial lake, which add to the park’s beauty and provide visitors with enjoyable activities throughout the day. In the Wadi Namar Dam park, visitors can go camping under the beautiful sky filled with stars and can organize barbecue parties. This park has well-equipped campsites to facilitate visitors, to enjoy camping and create memories for a lifetime. Wadi Namar Dam Park is an outstanding place to hang out, camp, and have midnight adventures under the sky.
4. Attend a Riyadh season
Riyadh season is one of the most extravagant events celebrated in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Riyadh Season is a perfect blend of modernity and old Saudi traditions, adopting modern pop culture and showing the world the vibrant side of Riyadh. Riyadh season entertains concerts, exhibitions, theatrical performances, food, fashion, and shopping. The season takes place annually from October to March and is divided into 12 zones and each zone has something for everyone from adults to kids. If you are visiting Riyadh, attend a Riyadh Season as it includes live performances, adventurous activities, and events, tourists from all parts of the world flock to Riyadh to celebrate the event and observe the complementation of pop culture into Saudi old culture and traditions.
Timings: vary from event to event
5. Nofa Wildlife Park Safari
Nofa Wildlife Park is a short drive away almost 100 meters from Riyadh’s City Center. This wildlife park is home to eighteen distinct kinds of herbivores you cannot see anywhere else such as hippopotamuses, wildebeest, zebra, leopards, and giraffes in a single place. The Nofa Wildlife Park tour is a unique experience; one must have while visiting Riyadh. It is one of the best and most facilitated places for family picnics especially for children. You could also join an exciting safari excursion to see wild animals wander freely. The safari trip guarantees sightings of wild animals just a few meters away, more than 700 animals with endangered and threatened animals from all over the world, this wildlife journey in Riyadh will be one of the most memorable travel experiences you’ll ever have. Golf, Adventure Park, Bird Center and Picnic area, and Horse riding are the outdoor activities available.
Timings: 8:30AM to 3:30 PM (Saturday-Thursday)
6. Attend a Horse Race in Riyadh
Horse racing is a fascinating experience both as an audience member and an active participant. Furthermore, horseback riding in Riyadh offers a unique and exciting way to explore the majestic beauty of Saudi Arabia’s bustling capital. Horse riding is a wonderful and unforgettable experience whether you opt for it for adventure or relaxation, it is suitable for all ages, abilities, and choices. Saudi Arabia is a paradise for horse riders with too many opportunities whether you are a beginner or a trained horse rider. Riyadh holds the $20 million Saudi Cup, the world’s biggest horse race. Every equestrian and horse rider dreams about riding at King Abdulaziz Racetrack. It is a wonderful opportunity for viewers to watch their favorite rider and connect with individuals from different countries.
The horseback riding season in Riyadh normally begins in October and lasts until March.
7. A night at Al Bujairi Heritage Park
Al Bujairi Heritage Park, located in Saudi Arabia’s capital, is a beautiful park with an exuberant and exciting atmosphere. The entire park is filled with lush green gardens that surround running pathways. It’s embellished with unique flowers, exotic plants, and thousands of trees. Al Bujairi Heritage Park is located on a relatively low-lying plot of land surrounded by massive boulders.
The park features famous musical light events at night. Diriyah’s customs and history are presented through planned presentations on the surrounding palace walls. These shows are popular among both residents and tourists. Furthermore, the park hosts tale nights that showcase Saudi Arabian culture. Tourists can spend a night in the park and enjoy the beautiful cultural light show and storytelling.
Timings: 24/7
8. Watch a car race at Diriyah E-Prix
Diriyah E-Prix is a one-seater Formula E championship race powered electrically, held annually in Riyadh Saudi Arabia. The race started in 2018 and then continued to return every year after. The race is held in Al Diriyah every year and the 2025 season will be its 7th edition. This 2-day race event offers thrilling races, fun activities, food, and other entertainment like live performances by famous musicians. The visitors enjoy the electric car race followed by concerts in Diriyah E-Prix. Car race enthusiasts and adventure lovers enjoy this event to the fullest. It is a must-do thing while you are visiting Riyadh please add this adventurous activity to your list.
9. Explore Diriyah
The historical Diriyah, also known as the ‘Pearl of Saudi Arabia,’ celebrates Saudi Arabia’s tradition, legacy, and culture. It also features a fantastic sequence of cultural and sporting events, shopping centers, and other educational options. Diriyah also includes Al Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The property is home to various museums, accommodations, and expo complexes. To fully immerse themselves in Saudi Arabia’s historical culture, international tourists visit Diriyah. Diriyah is a bustling city with structures made of conventional mud bricks and stunning architecture. To learn about authentic Saudi Arabian culture and history there are many historical sites in Diriyah. Tourists can visit the Al Bujairi area, the Diriyah Museum, Diriyah Season, Diriyah E-Prix, and the Imam Mohamed ibn Saud Mosque.
10. Camel Safari
Saudi Arabia is full of adventurous activities and destinations, including the world’s largest sand desert and the stunning Red Sea. The Saudi Arabian camel safari offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime experience among the magnificent sand dunes. Camel safari is a thrilling and exciting experience that enables you to see great vistas of the lovely desert while learning about the true and native way of life in Saudi Arabia. Compared to a 4×4 vehicle excursion, a camel safari allows a more leisurely exploration of the surroundings. One of the best places to enjoy camel safari is in the Dunes and rocks of the Al Thumama Desert. The desert offers a variety of adventure experiences that must be on any tourist’s bucket list.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Riyadh exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s vibrant mixture of modernization and traditions. Whether visiting ancient sights or enjoying the city’s modern beauty, Riyadh delivers a wonderful tour that captures the essence of Saudi Arabia.
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