The 7 Most Interesting Facts about Riyadh

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, is a modern and bustling metropolis with a rich history and diverse culture. Here are the 7 most interesting facts about this fascinating city:

1. The Name Riyadh Means “Garden”

The name “Riyadh” comes from the Arabic word for garden or meadow, and the city is known for its many parks and green spaces. It was named after the lush oasis in which it was originally located.

2. Riyadh Was Once a Small Town

Riyadh was a small town until the 20th century when it became the capital of Saudi Arabia. It was mostly made up of mud-brick buildings and had a population of a few thousand people. Today, it is a modern city with a population of over 7 million.

3. It Has the Tallest Flagpole in the World

Riyadh is home to the King Fahd National Library, which boasts the tallest flagpole in the world. The pole stands at a height of 171 meters and flies a flag that is 49 meters long and 33 meters wide.

4. It Hosts the Largest Camel Market in the World

The annual camel market in Riyadh is the largest of its kind in the world. It attracts traders and buyers from all over Saudi Arabia and other countries in the region. The market also features traditional camel races and other cultural events.

5. It Is Home to the World’s Largest Women-Only University

Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University in Riyadh is the largest women-only university in the world. It has a student population of over 60,000 and offers a wide range of programs in different fields of study.

6. Riyadh Is One of the Fastest Growing Cities in the Middle East

Riyadh is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Middle East and attracts many foreign workers and expatriates. It also has a thriving business sector and is home to many multinational corporations.

7. It Is Known for Its Modern Architecture

Riyadh is known for its modern architecture, with many impressive skyscrapers and other structures. The Kingdom Tower is currently under construction and, when completed, will be the tallest building in the world.

These are just a few of the interesting facts that make Riyadh a unique and fascinating city. From its rich history to its modern-day innovations, Riyadh has something for everyone.

The Insider’s Guide to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, known for its modern architecture and desert surroundings. With a rich culture and deep history, there is no shortage of things to explore while visiting Riyadh. Here are some of the must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for those visiting the city.

Attractions

Riyadh has many attractions to offer. Some of the top places to visit include:

– Al-Masmak Fortress: This historic fortress played a major role in the kingdom’s unification and is now a museum with various exhibits and displays.
– Kingdom Centre: This skyscraper offers stunning views of the city from the top. It houses a mall, hotel, and apartments.
– Murabba Palace: This historical palace used to be the residence of King Abdulaziz, the founder of Saudi Arabia. It is now open to the public as a museum.
– National Museum: This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the history and culture of Saudi Arabia. It features displays of art, artifacts, and historical objects.

Dining Spots

The traditional cuisine in Riyadh is a blend of Arabic and Middle Eastern flavours. Here are some recommended dining spots in the city:

– Najd Village: This restaurant offers traditional Saudi cuisine, including lamb and rice dishes, in a beautiful setting that recreates a traditional Najd village.
– Al-Nakheel Mall: This mall houses various restaurants that offer a range of international cuisine.
– Al Orjouan: This restaurant is known for its Lebanese cuisine and offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
– Al Khaimah: This is a great spot for breakfast, and the menu includes a variety of traditional Saudi breakfast dishes.

Cultural experiences

Saudi Arabia has a rich culture, and experiencing it is a must while in Riyadh. Here are some cultural experiences to check out:

– Visit a Souq: A visit to a traditional market is a great way to experience the local culture. The Souq Al Zal in Riyadh is a popular market that sells traditional Arabian perfumes, jewelry, and textiles.
– Watch a Traditional Arabian Horse Race: Saudi Arabia is known for its love of horses, and catching a horse race is an exciting way to experience this aspect of the culture.
– Visit the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre: This center features a library, museum, and research center that offers a wealth of information about the history and culture of Saudi Arabia.
– Take a desert tour: The city is surrounded by vast stretches of desert, and a tour of the desert can be an unforgettable experience.

Local History

Riyadh has a deep history that is worth exploring while visiting the city. Some of the best places to learn about the history of Riyadh include:

– Masmak Fortress: As previously mentioned, this historic fortress played a crucial role in the unification of the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
– Ad-Diriyah: This is a nearby town that was once the capital of the first Saudi State and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
– Al Murabba Historic District: This district showcases some of the traditional architecture of the city, including buildings that date back to the early part of the 20th century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for some unique experiences that take you off the beaten path, here are some suggestions:

– Visit the Edge of the World: Located just outside Riyadh, this plateau offers breathtaking views over the desert and is a great spot for hiking.
– Explore the Wadi Hanifa: This is a dry riverbed that runs through Riyadh, and now is a beautiful park with various trails that you can hike and bike.
– Visit the Al Faisaliah Tower: This is another skyscraper in the city that offers stunning views. However, what sets it apart is that the building’s top floor has been converted into a luxury hotel that offers a range of amenities for guests.

Riyadh offers something for everyone, whether you are interested in history, culture, architecture, or just want to explore the beauty of the nearby desert. Be sure to visit some of these places and experiences the next time you are in the city.