The best time to visit Riyadh is between November and February when the weather is mild and pleasant. The temperatures are cooler during these months, making outdoor activities and sightseeing more comfortable. Summers can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F).
Top attractions in Riyadh include the National Museum, Al Masmak Fortress, King Abdulaziz Historical Center, the Kingdom Centre Tower, the Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn), and the Riyadh Zoo. The city also offers modern shopping centers, parks, and a vibrant dining scene.
Riyadh is generally safe for tourists, with low levels of violent crime. However, visitors should be aware of cultural norms, dress modestly, and respect local customs. As with any major city, it is advised to stay vigilant for petty crimes such as pickpocketing and follow travel advisories.
Most visitors to Saudi Arabia, including those visiting Riyadh, will need a visa to enter the country. Tourist visas can be obtained online through the Saudi eVisa portal or upon arrival. It's important to check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip.
No, alcohol is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia, including in Riyadh. The country has stringent laws against the production, importation, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Tourists and residents alike are expected to abide by this law.
Tourists visiting Riyadh should dress conservatively. Women are expected to wear loose-fitting clothing, cover their arms and legs, and a headscarf is advised, although not mandatory for non-Muslim women. Men should wear long trousers and avoid sleeveless shirts. Traditional attire, such as the abaya for women and thobe for men, is widely worn by locals.
Getting around Riyadh can be done by car, either by renting a vehicle or using ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem. The city has also been developing its public transportation, including a metro system set to open in the near future. Taxis are available, but ensure they are licensed and use the meter to avoid overcharging.
Yes, Riyadh has conservative cultural norms due to its adherence to traditional Islamic values. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, eating with the left hand is considered impolite, and non-Muslims are not allowed to visit the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. During the month of Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited for non-Muslims as well.
The official currency of Riyadh, as well as the rest of Saudi Arabia, is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Currency exchange services are widely available at banks, hotels, and exchange offices. Credit cards are commonly accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller transactions and in areas that may not accept card payments.
Saudi Arabia uses a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 60Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type G. If your electrical appliances use different plugs or a different voltage, you'll need a power plug adapter and perhaps a voltage converter for them to work.
