Riyadh

Rising 302 metres over Riyadh, the Kingdom Centre remains a defining feature of the city's skyline. Its most distinctive element is the 56-metre Sky Bridge, connecting the tower's two peaks on the 99th floor. High-speed elevators transport visitors to this vantage point, which offers sweeping, unobstructed views of the capital through secure glass panels. The complex also houses the world's second-highest mosque and the Al-Mamlaka shopping centre. For the clearest perspective, a daytime visit is recommended to avoid the crowds that gather for the illuminated evening spectacle.

Al-Rajhi Grand Mosque stands as one of the largest places of worship in Riyadh. Its vast prayer halls can accommodate over 20,500 worshippers, and the complex functions as a comprehensive Islamic centre with libraries and educational facilities. While entry is reserved for Muslims, the impressive exterior architecture, particularly striking when illuminated after dark, makes it a notable city landmark. The mosque's scale and community role underscore its significant position within the capital's religious and cultural landscape.

Deera Square is a central public space known by several names, including Alsafat, Justice Square, and colloquially as 'Chop-Chop Square', a reference to its former role as a site for public executions. Today, that macabre past stands in stark contrast to its present function. The square has been transformed into a vast, open area with landscaped greenery, benches and cafés. By afternoon and evening, it becomes a lively social hub where locals gather, creating a relaxed and communal atmosphere far removed from its historical notoriety.

The Edge of the World, known locally as Jebel Fihrayn, is a dramatic 1,131-metre-high escarpment marking the end of the Tuwaig Mountain range approximately 100 kilometres northwest of Riyadh. The name derives from the breathtaking panorama from the cliff's edge, where the vast, flat desert stretches to the horizon. Reaching the site requires a 4x4 vehicle and careful preparation, as the final stretch involves rugged, unmarked desert tracks with no services or reliable mobile signal. The challenging access is rewarded with stark, magnificent views, fossil-strewn terrain, and exceptional stargazing, best experienced at sunset when the cliffs glow in the warm evening light.

Al-Masmak Palace is a clay and mud-brick fortress whose pivotal role in Saudi history belies its modest scale. Built around 1865, it was the site of the daring 1902 raid that led to the recapture of Riyadh, a foundational event for the modern kingdom. The spearhead from that assault remains embedded in its main gate. Today, the palace functions as a museum, its former residential quarters and majlis displaying historical photographs, weapons, and multimedia exhibits that chronicle the story of the nation's unification.

Diriyah, the original seat of the Saudi dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies northwest of central Riyadh. Founded in 1446 along the banks of Wadi Hanifah, its historic At-Turaif district is a remarkable collection of mud-brick ruins that was the nation's first capital. The area now functions as a vast cultural and heritage destination, where visitors can explore restored palaces, museums housed within original structures, and walk ancient streets. Beyond the core historical site, the development offers parks, traditional markets and seasonal events, creating a multifaceted glimpse into the kingdom's origins.

Al-Murabba Palace offers a direct insight into the life of King Abdulaziz Al-Saud, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia. Built just outside old Riyadh's walls, this square, mud-brick complex served as his official residence and the seat of government from 1938. Its design, centred around a large internal courtyard, reflects both traditional Najdi architecture and the need for privacy and security. The palace's 32 rooms, now a museum, display personal effects, historical photographs, and administrative offices, providing a tangible connection to a pivotal era in the nation's history.

The Old Camel Market, situated approximately 30 kilometres north of Riyadh, is one of the largest such trading grounds on the Arabian Peninsula. This sprawling, dusty arena offers a direct encounter with an enduring tradition, where Bedouin traders assess, present and haggle over hundreds of dromedaries. The atmosphere is immersive and unfiltered, defined by the din of negotiation and the distinct, earthy scent of the animals. While the trading continues throughout the day, the activity peaks in the late afternoon. It is advisable to confirm its current location before visiting, as urban development has prompted relocations in the past.

Al-Faisaliya Tower is a landmark of modern Riyadh, recognised as the kingdom's first skyscraper. Its distinctive pyramid-like form, crowned with a glass globe, punctuates the Olaya district skyline. The primary draw is the observation deck, which provides a sweeping 360-degree panorama of the city's expansive urban grid. The complex at its base houses a refined shopping mall, known for its selection of luxury brands and calm, spacious corridors. While the city now has taller structures, the tower remains a significant architectural pioneer, offering a classic perspective on Riyadh's dramatic growth.

The Red Sand Dunes around Riyadh present a dramatic landscape for desert exploration. Numerous operators run excursions to this area, typically including transport from the city. The core experience often involves dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, followed by more hands-on activities such as riding a quad bike over the sandy slopes. For a more traditional pace, a camel ride offers a different perspective on the vast terrain. These guided tours simplify the logistics, providing equipment and refreshments for a seamless adventure into the striking desert environment.

King Abdullah Park provides a spacious, manicured retreat in the heart of Riyadh. Its expansive lawns, wide pedestrian pathways and artificial lake offer residents a place for picnics, jogs, and leisurely strolls. The park is particularly popular in the evenings when its large fountain is illuminated for a synchronised musical show. A dedicated children's play area and various food kiosks make it a practical destination for families. A modest entrance fee helps maintain the park's clean and orderly environment, contributing to its reputation as one of the city's most pleasant and well-kept green spaces.