subject: Riyadh, The City Of Contrasts [print this page] The well known capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, is famous for being one of the ancient Kingdom's cities. The city is a place of contrasts where new technology is fighting against the tribal tendencies that still exist in the area.
The climate in Riyadh can be brutal, with temperatures that go as high as 50 degrees Celsius during summers and drastically colder temperatures during winter. The climate is also very dry and sand is often brought to the city by heavy winds.
When you go sightseeing in Riyadh be aware of the fact that the sites that are worth visiting are closed on Thursdays and Fridays, and there are special hours for men visiting and family visiting which may not be something a Westerner is used to.
Among the most important places you can visit in Riyadh, the Masmak Fortress is one you should not miss. Located in the heart of the city the fortress still carries the signs of the attack launched by King Abdul Aziz when he tried to take back Riyadh at the beginning of the 20th century. The fortress has been rebuilt and now looks as good as new while the museum located inside offers more than just basic information on the attack.
The Murabba Palace is a construction made of mud bricks and erected by the same king that attacked the Masmak Fortress. Now you can visit the site and entrance is free.
The National Museum in Riyadh is new and it shows. Based on new technology, the museum is accessible to guests and you can receive all the needed information directly in English. With presentations shown in state of the art theatres and virtual tours, the museum is an attraction favored by the younger crowd that appreciates this new method of presenting history.
The Kingdom Centre, another great attraction in Riyadh, is an architectural gem rising over three hundred meters above the ground. This is the highest building in Saudi Arabia, and it is worth it to view it at night when it transforms in a veritable light show. You will also find an impressive shopping mall with three stories, one of which is entirely dedicated to female visitors.
There are many things to do in Riyadh and one of the most popular activities is golfing. The city is renowned for its golf courses and clubs which are located not far away from it. Other activities you can participate in around the city include horseback riding, swimming, and playing tennis.
Riyadh is famous for its shopping opportunities. The city seems to be a chain of shopping malls almost never interrupted by other buildings. If you want to visit one of the most important shopping malls in Riyadh, try Al Mamlaka, where you will find many Western restaurants, such as Planet Hollywood.
Traditional markets in Saudi Arabia are called souks, and one can still buy some interesting items from these. Arabic items are in full display in the Antique Souq, the best known souq in Riyadh. Here you can purchase souvenirs or a piece of jewelry to remind you of your visit.
