Riyadh
Travel Guide

Saudi Arabia Kingdom is one of the countries in the Middle East which are more representative for the Islam, and it is ruled by an absolute monarchy. During the last decades it has become one of the richest regions in the world thanks to the oil, but it is also importan Riyadh t because it has some archaeological relics very interesting and also it is famous for being a country not very accessible to visit. Riyadh, the... capital, is one of the main and central parts for the development of Saudi Arabia and the main economical and political centre.In the past it was known for its dates and special vegetables. In a very arid location, like the rest of the country, the city had some underground waters and it was very popular for its dates and for being one of the main routes in the desert. The city is one of the most internationalized places in the country, even it can be described asa quiet conservative territory, preserving the old Saudi Arabian traditions. Visiting this country with its capital is probably a unique experience and very interesting, but it is very important to be respectful with the local people and the culture and traditions they have, specially when it comes to the role that men and women still have in the society (not even near of how it is nowadays in other countries). If you are a woman, it is important to cover yourself while you are in the street. It is forbidden to drink alcohol, and it is important to not have with you any object or symbol which can be offensive for the culture of the country. It is essential to get information before you start your trip to Riyadh, and despite this control and stict rules, there is a magic city, full of bazars, smells and beautiful traditions.

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Riyadh Overview

Language

Arabic is the official languabe in Saudi Arabia and the main language spoken in Riyadh, even there are many different dialects spoken in the urban and rural areas. English is also quiet spoken in many sectors, specially for the businesses, and it is the second language taught in schools.

Weather

In general, the weather in Saudi Arabia is very dry, with very high temperatures in the Summer, specially in the central parts and northern of the country.

The weather in Riyadh is desertic during almost the whole year, very hot the whole day with temperatures which can easily rise the 45ºC. the hottest months are between April and October and the coldest from November and February, when temperatures are around the 10ºC. the country is quiet arid but the capital has some rains throghout the year. During the months of March and April the Red Sea coast has lots of rains usually.

Money

Rial (SAR). The best and safest currency exchange in Saudi Arabia is in the banks, the Atm’s and currency exchange offices have a bit higher comissions. It is interesting to take into a count that the currency exchange in the airports is safe but the taxes are higher. It is not recommended to exchange money in the black market, you could have problems.

When to go

Definetely Winter. Between the months of November and March it is when the temperatures in Riyadh are more mild and nice tovisit the capital city of Saudi Arabia, even there are also some rains.During the Summer between June and August, the temperatures are too high, with an avarage of 45ºC! this makes it more difficult to travel around the capital and its surroundings. Spring and Autumn are also good moments to visit Riyadh.

Days

2 days. Riyadh is a good place to catch the essence of the more international part of the country and some of the most important touristic landmarks. But Saudi Arabia offers much more to the tourist and after spending 2 days in the capital it is recommended to start travelling around in other corners of the country.

Surroundings

Bahrain (country)
Al-Diriyya (first capital)
Al Ghat (historical village)
Wadi Hanifah (valley and natural park)
Tuwaiq (mountain)
Aflaj (archeological remains)
Desert

Store Hours

In general, shops are open from Saturday to Thursday from 09.00h to 13.00h and from 16.30h to 20.00h but in the Ramadan period this varies quiet a lot, opening many of them from 20.00h to 01.00h. Some institutional buildings open from 09.00h to 12.00h and from 16.00 to 00.00h to avoid the hottest hours of the day. During the 5 prays of the day, some shops and restaurants close around 20 minutes so the workers can pray.