Saudi Arabia is a travel destination that is not often discussed in mainstream travel circles.
Between common misconceptions about safety in the Middle Eastern region in general and outdated perceptions—such as the belief that women are still not allowed to drive—many people tend to overlook it as a potential travel destination.
However, Saudi Arabia officially opened its doors to tourism in 2019, making it easier for visitors from around the world to apply for a visa online or upon arrival.
Before this, tourism in the country was mostly limited to religious pilgrims visiting Mecca and Medina or business travelers. In recent years, however, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in tourism, launching major projects, attractions, and infrastructure to welcome international visitors.
As someone based in Doha with an interest to explore the Gulf region, I decided to start my journey with Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.
In this Riyadh travel guide, I’ll share everything I learned from my trip to help make your experience in the Kingdom as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Entry Requirements
As a U.S. passport holder, the United States is on Saudi’s list of eligible countries for the eVisa or visa upon arrival for 395 SAR ($105 USD).
Saudi has clearly outlined the list of countries eligible for the eVisa before arriving in the country and has listed the requirements for visas on arrival here.
If you are not from one of Saudi Arabia’s eligible countries, you will have to apply for a visa through one of Saudi Arabia’s embassies or consulates.
The eVisa is good for one year, has multiple entries, and allows up to 90 days in the country.
My Experience with Obtaining A Visa on Arrival
You would not believe that for the first time ever, I actually forgot to look up the entry requirements for a country.
I had a busy week and in the midst of thinking of Saudi as a “quick weekend trip”, I subconsciously forgot about its international component, until I literally saw the immigration sign upon arrival. Looking back, I’m surprised my airline didn’t ask for it either.
So to say it was a relief to find out about visa on arrival is an understatement and another great example of passport privilege.
I was extremely impressed with the entire procedure. From the moment I arrived at the Immigration section to the time I received and paid for my visa, it took only about five minutes.
There were plenty of immigration officers present, I was able to pay for my visa with my card, and was on my way!
Leaving the Airport
You will get approached by many private taxi drivers when leaving the airport to your booked accommodation.
I took a private taxi driver out of landing in the evening and wanted to get to my accommodation ASAP, but I was nervous about it the entire time and was charged about 2x more than Uber would have.
I didn’t realize that the “taxi drivers” that approach you don’t necessarily drive for an official company (at least not the one I took), so I would keep this in mind.
Everything was fine on my ride, but I recommend ordering an Uber to get to your desired destination for peace of mind, especially if you are traveling alone, because you can track the ride and send your location in real-time to someone.
Currency in Saudi Arabia
The currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR or SR).
Cash and cards are used in Saudi Arabia, but card payments can be used for everything.
I did not withdraw any cash during my combined 6-day trip to Riyadh and did not need any cash at any point, which was great.
I usually try to withdraw a small amount when I travel as someone who loves to see different foreign currencies, but I haven’t had a chance to do so in Saudi Arabia!
If you need an ATM, there are banks you can choose from and ATMs in public places like malls.
Time Zone
Saudi Arabia is on Arabian Standard Time (GMT+3).
The country does not use Daylight Savings, so this time is consistent throughout the year.
The time zone is the same as that of neighboring countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.
If you are visiting from regions like North America, Europe, or Asia, be mindful of the time difference when scheduling flights or planning your trip to accommodate jetlag.
Language Spoken in Riyadh
The official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic.
Coming from Qatar, where you really don’t need Arabic at all, to Saudi Arabia, where it is useful at certain points, I enjoyed flexing some of my untapped Arabic language skills.
Navigating Riyadh is not difficult without knowing Arabic, but you are bound to encounter a situation in which you may need it.
I recommend downloading Arabic (specifically the Gulf dialect, if the app allows it) just in case you need to communicate with someone in Arabic, but many people speak English and signs are often written in both Arabic and English.
Also, research and learn basic greetings and pleasantries, such as “Marhaba” (مرحبا), which means hello, and “Shukran” (شكراً), which means thank you.
Getting A SIM Card in Riyadh
Obtaining a SIM card was very easy, as cellphone company booths were located in the arrival terminal.
Once I got off the plane, I inquired about where to get a SIM card and was directed to the correct location.
I decided to go with the company Zain, whose name was written in green on the left.
Since I figured I wouldn’t need to make calls during my trip (which turned out to be correct), I opted to purchase a data-only SIM card.
I chose the most affordable plan with data, which cost 113.85 SAR ($30.35).
It lasted the six days I spent in Riyadh, with 50% of the data remaining. I use data like it’s no one’s business, so I found it well worth it!
Electrical Outlet/Plug Type Used
The most common plug type in Saudi Arabia is Type G, which utilizes three flat pins.
Weather
Saudi Arabia has a desert climate, so you can expect hot summers and mild winters.
Stop by Al Amer for Oud to try out a few scents or the Gold Souq to check out the rates for the day and possibly pick up some new pieces.
During the summer months, from about May to September, temperatures can get as high as (113°F), especially in cities like Riyadh. I’ve heard that other cities experience different levels of humidity.
I visited Riyadh from late January to early February, during cooler months, and it was nice to walk around when the weather was cool and not in the excruciating heat.
It can be very chilly in the early morning or later at night, so I recommend bringing a jacket, closed-toed shoes, and light layers.
Safety in Riyadh
Riyadh is considered a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a reasonably strong security presence.
Safety seems to be a high priority, and most public areas, tourist attractions, and transportation hubs are well-monitored.
As a Black woman solo traveler, I found Riyadh to be safe.
However, like most places, it is said that petty crimes do still happen.
While I always felt safe, I always recommend being aware of your surroundings.
How to Dress
I get a lot of questions about clothing in the region, so wanted to include a dedicated section in this Riyadh travel guide.
The dress code in Riyadh reflects Saudi Arabia’s cultural and religious values, emphasizing modesty and respect for local customs.
While the country has eased some restrictions in recent years, visitors should still aim to dress conservatively, especially in public places, government buildings, and religious sites.
Although women are no longer required to wear an abaya, it is still common, and many still choose to do so out of respect.
It should be fine as long as clothing choices are modest and cover the shoulders and knees.
Also, avoiding tight clothing is suggested.
I was walking around with a friend who was still fully covered but had skinny jeans on and was surprised to see the looks that it attracted.
For men, the best practice seems to be to avoid shorts and sleeveless tops.
LGBTQ+ Travelers in Saudi
While I stated that I found Riyadh to be safe crime-wise, it’s important for me to include that LGBTQ+ travelers should be aware that “Same-sex sexual relations, even when consensual, are criminalized in Saudi Arabia.
Violations of Saudi laws governing perceived expressions of, or support for, same-sex sexual relations, including on social media, may be subject to severe punishment. Potential penalties include fines, jail time, or death.” as outlined by the Human Dignity Trust.
Consider these laws and assess your personal safety needs to determine if you feel comfortable traveling to Riyadh.
Getting Around Riyadh: Transportation Options
Uber
In my opinion, Uber is the most convenient way for tourists to get around Riyadh.
The rideshare app accepts both cash and card payments, and as a well-known platform worldwide, Uber provides many with a familiar way to travel from place to place.
I was surprised to learn that only Saudi nationals are allowed to drive for Uber and other rideshare apps in an attempt by the government to help lower unemployment rates among citizens as of 2020.
I noticed that wait times for Uber in Riyadh are fairly high; sometimes, I had to wait 8-12 minutes for a ride.
I would keep this in mind and order Ubers accordingly to ensure you arrive at your desired destination(s) on time.
Careem
Careem is another rideshare app in Saudi Arabia that is similar to Uber.
The app offers rides, food delivery, groceries, and a digital wallet for making payments.
Riyadh Metro
Riding on Riyadh’s newly-launched Metro system is now an option for getting around the city.
Launched in December 2024, the Metro contains six lines, and stations have been placed in strategic locations around the city.
Riding the Metro was on my list of things to do in Riyadh anyway. Still, I had no idea that the entire system is relatively new to the city, only opening recently in December 2024, one month before my visit.
Admittedly, my goal was to see what the rider experience was like, so I was not too intentional about taking the Metro to a specific destination. However, I found the ride to be clean and very scenic, providing great views of the city.
I question whether it would be convenient to find a station and use the Metro consistently throughout the day, but it is an option to explore if you have the time.
Taxis
Taxis in Riyadh can be found throughout the city and are said to use a meter to charge rates for rides or negotiate rates.
I saw baby blue taxis with “TAXI” written on the side doors.
Trains + Buses
Trains and buses travel from city to city in Saudi Arabia, and they may be worth checking out if you are looking to travel beyond Riyadh on your trip. You can find more information about them here.
Rental Car
If you are up for it, you can rent a car to get around Riyadh.
Numerous rental agencies, such as Hertz, Avis, and Budget, are available in the city, as well as local companies offering a variety of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury SUVs.
You can visit a location later in your trip or find several booths at the airport. Many rental services offer online booking, doorstep delivery, and short—or long-term rental plans.
I will say that driving in Riyadh is probably not suitable for beginners or those who have not driven abroad before.
I found the driving in Riyadh to be somewhat aggressive. Between the high speeds and sudden lane changes without car signals, I imagine driving here can be stressful for foreigners.
I saw the aftermath of three accidents on my first day in Riyadh and continued to see many after that. I would recommend observing the roads for 1-2 days and then deciding for yourself if the conditions are suitable for driving.
Where I Ate in Riyadh
حمسة و تغميسة (Hamsa wa Taghmeesa)
Hamsa wa Taghmeesa is a well-known breakfast spot in Riyadh, known for its authentic Saudi breakfast dishes in a cozy setting.
The restaurant has a range of classic Arabian breakfast dishes like tamees, shakshuka, and balaleet.
Knowing that I wanted to be intentional with my dining choices on my trip and try some Saudi dishes, I was elated when I found this restaurant.
As brunch approached, I ordered Chicken Hamsa, which was served with freshly baked bread and a cup of karak chai tea.
Meal Ticket:
- Chicken Hamsa: 28 SAR ($7.47)
- Karak Tea: 10 SAR ($2.67)
Najd Village
Offering a special dining experience in Riyadh, Najd Village is an immersive experience of traditional cuisine and culture.
The restaurant resembles an authentic Saudi village, with its mud-brick architecture, wooden doors, and traditional seating arrangements, creating a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere.
The menu highlights classic dishes prepared using traditional cooking methods.
I opted for a spot outdoors in an open-air setting resembling a courtyard. It was bordered with majlis-style floor seating with cushions and low tables (depending on where you decide to sit).
This was a highlight of my trip, as I really admired and appreciated the authentic culinary experience.
Meal Ticket:
- Chicken Kabsa 29 SAR ($7.73)
- Green Tea Pot 16 SAR ($4.27)
Urth Caffe
Urth Caffe came highly recommended throughout my entire visit, and I decided to visit a location on my very last day in Riyadh.
As I walked into the location inside of the ROSHN Front Shopping Plaza, I was immediately captivated by its chic, relaxing atmosphere.
From the cafe’s high-quality organic teas to a mix of American and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, there are plenty of choices.
I ordered a set of the cafe’s matcha green tea pancakes topped with Sidr honey butter and loved every bite!
Meal Ticket:
- Green Tea Pancakes: 59 SAR ($15.73)
- Rose Pink Matcha Drink
Mama Noura
Mama Noura is a popular fast-food chain in Riyadh known for its delicious and affordable Middle Eastern cuisine.
The restaurant has been around since the late 1990s. It has built a strong reputation for serving some of the best shawarmas in the city, along with a variety of grilled meats, fresh juices, and traditional Arabic dishes from its branches across the city.
I was confused when I first walked in, as I was not expecting the layout to be the way it was.
To order, you start at the cashier, where you can browse the menu, place your order, and pay for it.
Then, you’ll receive meal tickets to give to the staff at the station where your food or drink is and wait for it to be prepared.
The restaurant fills up quickly, becoming lively, and it’s obvious that it is the go-to spot for casual dining, especially for a quick grab-and-go meal.
Funny enough, one of my former Arabic teachers from Saudi Arabia put Mama Noura on my radar, as she would constantly refer to the restaurant when speaking about the region, and I’m so glad I got to visit!
Meal Ticket:
- Shish-Tawook Sandwich 16 SAR ($4.27)
- Small Mango Smoothie 8 SAR ($2.13)
Flamingo Room
Flamingo Room is inside of Riyadh’s Bujairi Terrace, which is in the neighborhood of Diriyah, which I’ll cover in the next section.
The restaurant’s ambiance and decor display a touch of Africa from a glamorous lens.
The interior has warm hues, plush seating, and intricate décor, creating an upscale and chic aura perfect for brunch.
The menu features a selection of international dishes focusing on fresh seafood, meats, and other vibrant flavors.
From beautifully plated oysters to signature pasta and indulgent desserts, every dish is crafted with attention to detail.
I stopped by the Flamingo Room for a quick drink and a few small bites my friend ordered, but I would definitely return for a full meal.
The staff at the restaurant was also incredible, with the manager taking his time to walk us through the menu and even recommend their signature drink, which I gave a try:
Meal Ticket:
– Flamingo Room Cocktail 60 SAR ($16)
– Crab Cake 120 SAR ($31.99)
– Mint Tea 34 SAR ($9.07)
– Caesar Salad 88 SAR ($23.46)
Suhail
Suhail describes itself as a “high-end Saudi Arabian dining concept combining tradition with luxury that serves traditional home-style food that revives the authentic taste, while experiencing a high-end genuine Saudi hospitality culture, in an inspired modern design environment.”
The low lighting makes it a perfect setting for a cozy dining experience, which is why I spent hours there.
This is one of the restaurants in Riyadh that I consider a must-visit. The service was incredible, and the decor and outline of the restaurant were stunning. It is one that I would highly recommend for an intimate date night.
Meal Ticket:
– Harees salad and Al-Jouf olives 60 SAR ($13.06)
– Chicken Sambosa 45 SAR ($12)
– Chicken Saleeq Al Taif 105 SAR ($28)
– Suhail sparkling juice 75 SAR ($20)
Tilia Restaurant
Tilia is a restaurant I found on a whim one morning while searching for a breakfast spot.
Tilia Restaurant is another beautifully decorated restaurant in Riyadh.
This restaurant was probably my least favorite one, as I wasn’t thrilled with any of my dishes.
While I could get through the Motabbag dish, it’s not one I would order again.
I found the Cheese Samosas very salty and the milk yogurt drink flavorless, so I didn’t finish anything I had.
The restaurant is known more for its lunch buffet, so it may be worth going during that time instead.
Meal Ticket:
– Motabbag with Cheese 28 SAR ($7.47)
– Cheese Samosa 32 SAR ($8.53)
– Milk Tea 24 SAR ($6.40)
Saddle House
My final brunch in Riyadh was at the Saddle House, a stylish, upscale café known for its gourmet coffee and pastries.
The cafe’s roots are in Dubai; this spot has quickly gained popularity in the city.
I enjoyed my meal and would love to return to try other items on the menu, as quite a few caught my eye.
Meal Ticket:
– Flatbread with scrambled Eggs, truffle, and zataar
Globe Restaurant
Deciding to wrap up my trip with a fine dining experience, Globe Restaurant seemed like the perfect choice.
The restaurant is inside a three-story dome that offers a luxurious culinary experience. With tables lined around the perimeter of the dining space, guests can easily take in breathtaking panoramic views.
The restaurant serves a mix of contemporary European cuisine, and I enjoyed the food and overall dining experience at the Globe.
The restaurant also has an afternoon tea set that includes an assortment of gourmet pastries, fine teas, and light bites in the beautiful setting above the city. This is an excellent alternative to coming for dinner if you don’t make it during later hours.
Planning Tip: I would book a reservation for this restaurant a few days in advance to secure your spot, as it is popular. I did see those who did not reserve a table get turned away at the entrance before the elevator. There is also a minimum consumption fee of 350 SAR/person.
Meal Ticket:
– Roasted Pumpkin Velouté 100 SAR ($26.66)
– Truffle Roasted Chicken 205 SAR ($54.66)
– Crisp Mille Fueille 80 SAR ($21.33)
Things to Do in Riyadh
Edge of the World
The Edge of the World is one of Saudi Arabia’s most breathtaking natural wonders, about one hour from Riyadh.
The site is a cliff formation that provides unreal views of the vast desert landscape, making you feel like you are standing at the very edge of the Earth.
Finding group tours in Riyadh was very difficult. It’s hard to know what is legit, and they often cost hundreds of dollars. So I was happy when I found this tour to the Edge of the World, which I went on with a friend.
Our tour guide picked us up from a bookstore in Riyadh, drove us to the location, and even provided us with stunning drone footage to remember our time there, making it more memorable.
The tour also includes a walk on the Darb Al-Manjoor trail, an ancient route in Saudi Arabia that was once used for travel and trade. The walking trail has so many great picture and view spots. It was also a great way to start the day.
Cost: $120/person
Diriyah
A historic city that is said to have been the birthplace and first capital of Saudi Arabia is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Today, Diriyah is being transformed into a cultural and tourism destination with museums, heritage sites, and hospitality offerings while preserving its history.
I saw Diriyah described as a “cultural suburb” and feel that is an accurate description of what I experienced.
It contains attractions like Wadi Hanifah, Samhan Farm, Jax District, and some of Riyadh’s best restaurants while still exuding a traditional feel in certain aspects.
While it was meant to be more of a historic site, it was highly curated, and I was a bit confused about that when I first visited.
It felt more like an entertainment plaza than a living heritage site, but looking back, I can understand Saudi Arabia’s vision for the old city.
Many events are often held in Diriyah, so check the calendar before your visit to ensure you don’t miss out on any!
Cost: Entry is FREE, but you must book a pass here.
Souq Taibah
One of the city’s most famous and oldest traditional markets, a walk through Souq Taibah is a walk through a vibrant atmosphere surrounded by authentic Arabian goods.
From intricate gold jewelry and handmade perfumes to embroidered abayas and traditional handicrafts, the market is a great place to find spices, oud, and souvenirs, perfect for obtaining a taste of Saudi culture.
I enjoyed the market layout and navigating through the maze-like alleys and bustling stalls.
Unlike many other markets I’ve visited worldwide, Souq Taibah was big, yet surprisingly, it was not overwhelming.
I recommend stopping by and taking home some souvenirs to remember your time in Saudi Arabia.
Boulevard World
What I’ve only been able to describe as a mini Disney Epcot to others, Boulevard World is a global-themed entertainment park that brings the world’s cultures to life in one place.
As part of Riyadh Season, it features replicas of famous international landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower in the Paris section and the pyramids in the Egypt section.
Themed districts represented at Boulevard World include countries such as France, Italy, China, India, Iran, Turkey, the USA, and more.
Walking around the park, I must say that I was very impressed with the concept and how it came to life in the park.
Each section contained authentic cuisine from that country, performances, and architecture that really made me feel immersed in the different cultures.
You can purchase your tickets for Boulevard World here.
Cost: 30 SAR ($8.00)
National Museum
The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is located near the King Abdulaziz Historical Center. Spanning eight galleries, the museum takes visitors on a journey from prehistoric civilizations and Islamic history to the unification of Saudi Arabia.
Several exhibits include ancient artifacts, manuscripts, displays, and mini-reconstructions of historical sites.
The museum is fairly small, and I was able to get through it in about an hour. I wasn’t particularly wowed by the museum, as I expected it to include a bit more, and the sections felt a bit short, but it was a great insight and background into the country.
There was a Christian Dior exhibit, but unfortunately, it was closed when I visited the museum. I would plan ahead and see if any other installations or exhibits will be opening.
Cost: FREE
VIA Riyadh
An ultra-luxury mall in the heart of Riyadh, VIA Riyadh is a blend of high-end shopping, fine dining, and entertainment all in one location.
Designed with elegant European-inspired architecture, VIA provides a sophisticated ambiance for visitors seeking a premium experience.
This mall is where you’ll want to go if you’re looking for luxury fashion boutiques, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a fancy movie theater.
While I was unwilling to dish out $4000 on one clothing item (lol), I enjoyed walking around and seeing what stores were in VIA and was taken aback by how beautiful the entire area was.
Cost: FREE
Diplomatic Quarter
The Diplomatic Quarter, often called the “DQ,” is a district that houses embassies, upscale residences, and green spaces.
As its name suggests, this area was originally developed to accommodate embassies and diplomatic residences.
Still, it has evolved into a sought-after location for locals and expatriates, with scenic parks, jogging trails, cultural centers, and high-end cafes and restaurants.
With attractions like Tuwaiq Palace, Wadi Hanifah Park, and several embassies, I recommend walking around Diplomatic Quarter and exploring the area.
Cost: FREE
Blvd Runway
At Blvd Runway, the world of aviation comes to life through immersive and interactive activities and simulations.
Three real-life Boeing 777 aircraft are placed onto a real runway, in addition to food trucks and carnival games, making it a way to pass the time.
You can dine in one of the airplanes, ride simulation rides, enjoy one of the performances on the main stage, and more.
Cost: 15 SAR ($4.00)
Sky Bridge
One of Riyadh’s most popular attractions, the Sky Bridge highlights views of the Riyadh skyline from the top of the Kingdom Centre Tower.
Visitors can take in the stunning cityscape, especially at sunset.
The line to get on the Sky Bridge is long, and the journey is quite long. I took two elevators to reach the bridge within the tower, and it was nice seeing Riyadh from a different perspective.
I visited in the evening and have to say that watching the city light up from the bridge was a stunning experience.
Whether visiting during the day or night, it is a must-see destination for tourists and locals looking to witness Riyadh from a whole new perspective.
Cost: 15 SAR ($4.00)
How many days do you need to travel to Riyadh?
Three days in Riyadh is the perfect amount of time to see all of its main attractions and explore the restaurant/cafe scene.
I would caution against planning a short trip to Riyadh that includes a Friday.
On Fridays, many businesses, markets, and attractions remain closed most of the day or operate on limited hours, especially during the Jumu’ah (Friday prayer), which takes place around midday.
So, you’ll essentially lose a day of exploration, but if you plan it right, you can still see everything you want to, with the understanding that your Friday may have a bit of a late start.
Final Thoughts on Riyadh
Riyadh pleasantly surprised me in terms of things to do in the city.
In the weeks leading up to my trip, it felt like I was struggling to find things to do and was a bit worried that I would not have anything to do during my time there, but I was ultimately proved wrong.
In full transparency, is it one of those destinations that stole my heart and I’ll be dreaming about returning to? No.
I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s a must-see/visit, but as someone who always wants to see as much as possible, I found it to be a great starting point for my travels in the region.
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Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below or if there’s anything you found surprising about this Riyadh travel guide!
