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Diriyah is the birthplace of the Kingdom and a symbol of the beauty, generosity, and resilience of the Saudi nation and its people. The source of hundreds of stories, Diriyah is a vibrant destination filled with wonder and discovery for explorers traveling from near and far.
Founded in 1446 in a region surrounded by fertile agricultural land on the banks of Wadi Hanifa, Diriyah soon grew to become the center of knowledge on the Arabian Peninsula. The population of the Arabian Peninsula formed the nucleus of growing societies over hundreds of years and united under the umbrella of the first Saudi state between 1744 and 1818.
The topography of the area, with a fertile river valley offering shade and sustenance, meant that Diriyah became a natural resting point for traders, travelers, and pilgrims from the Eastern and Northern parts of the Arabian Peninsula who were bound for Makkah and Medina.
Saudi, the future
Upcomming Saudi wonders
Discover upcoming Saudi experiences
The Red Sea is the world’s most ambitious luxury tourism development. It will be an exquisite sanctuary offering indulgent experiences, seamlessly customized to the unique needs of each visitor. Meanwhile, AMAALA will be an ultraluxury resort destination spanning three sites. It will be a place of self-transformation, inspired by the arts, wellness and the purity of the Red Sea. Both wonders will be open to the public from 2022.
On the other hand, Qiddiya will be the capital of Entertainment, Sports and the Arts in Saudi. It is being built around five cornerstones: Parks & Attractions, Sports & Wellness, Motion & Mobility, Arts & Culture and Nature & Environment. And NEOM will become the world’s most ambitious futuristic and sustainable ecosystem for living and working, over 33 times the size of New York. These two wonders are scheduled to be open to the public from 2023 and 2030, respectively.
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What to see at Diriyah
Our recommendations to plan the perfect holiday
Al-Turaif
Within Diriyah lies the UNESCO World Heritage Site Al-Turaif. The city of Al-Turaif, built in 1744 and recognized as one of the world’s largest mud-brick cities, has been carefully restored to offer visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of kings and heroes and explore Saudi history and culture in an authentic environment.
Museums of Ad Diriyah
Various museums are set to open in Ad Diriyah. They include: The Museum of Al Saud House, which will showcase the history of the ruling family and the kingdom’s heritage; The Museum of the Saudi State and Arabian Peninsula; The Museum of the -100Stories Journey, where visitors can learn about Saudi history and culture, and Misk Heritage Museum, an educational institute aimed at encouraging young people to get involved with the nation’s history and heritage.
The Al Bujairi Quarter
Situated about 12 miles northwest of central Riyadh, this newly renovated quarter is easy to navigate thanks to its many pedestrian walkways. Tucked into the alleyways, you’ll find numerous eateries where you can sample Arabian cuisine, as well as coffee shops, a juice bar, an ice cream parlor and a dessert shop. Set to connect to Al-Turaif by bridge, the quarter comes alive every Thursday night with a traditional Saudi ardha (sword-dancing) performance. The hour-long show starts at 9 p.m. and takes place under the Al-Turaif ruins.
Further information
Saudi culture
Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and traditions have been shaped by its position as a historic trade hub and the birthplace of Islam. In recent years, the Kingdom has undergone a significant cultural transformation, adapting centuries-old customs to fit the contemporary world. For example, while modest dress is still encouraged for both men and women — tourists are advised to avoid tightfitting clothing, and women must cover their shoulders and knees — female visitors no longer need to wear an abaya and hijab (robe and head covering). Unmarried guests to the country may now stay together in hotels, and female tourists (as well as locals) may also drive.
The official language
Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia and the first language of all native Saudi people. It is the primary language used in all public transactions and is a language spoken by Muslims all over the world. However, English, which is a compulsory second language in schools, is widely spoken in the Kingdom. And most road signs are bilingual, showing information in both Arabic and English.
Time zone
The standard time zone of Saudi is Arabia Standard Time (AST). The time zone is 3 hours ahead of GMT (GMT3+) with no daylight savings.
Getting to Saudi
With 13 international airports, served by global carriers, getting to and around the Kingdom couldn’t be easier.
1. King Khalid International Airport (RUH) – Riyadh
2. King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) – Jeddah
3. King Fahd International Airport (DMM) – Dammam
4. Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) – Medina
5. Taif International Airport (TIF) – Taif
6. Abha International Airport (AHB) – Abha
7. Hail International Airport (HAS) – Hail
8. King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (GIZ) – Gazan
9. Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ) – Qassim
10. Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (TUU) – Tabuk
11. Prince Abdulmohsin Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (YNB) –Yanbu
12. Al Jouf International Airport (AJF) – Jouf
13. Al Ahsa International Airport (HOF) – Al Ahsa
Saudi Arabia also operates 15 domestic airports, for short hops between regions. For further information, visit the General Authority for Civil Aviation.
Getting around Saudi
A first-rate transportation system connects Saudi Arabia’s provinces and cities, some of the modes of transport include car rentals, taxis, ride-hailing apps, trains and buses.
Weather in Saudi
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always hot in Saudi Arabia. The kingdom experiences four distinct seasons —from chilly winter breezes in January to peak desert heat in August —and a climate that varies between regions. Read on for a seasonal overview of the kingdom’s weather.
Spring in Saudi Mid-March to Mid-June
Spring in Saudi Arabia can be brisk, particularly in the north, where the temperature at night can drop below 15 degrees C. The central and southern regions are warmer, averaging around 20 degrees after nightfall. Rainfall is at its highest during spring, particularly in the central region and in the southwest over the Asir Mountains.
Summer in Saudi Mid-June to Mid-September
With the exception of the comparatively mild highlands in the southwest, summer signals the start of rising temperatures across most of the country, with the average hovering around 45 degrees C. The early mornings and long evenings are more temperate, so take advantage of the warm seas to explore Saudi’s world-class scuba diving sites, or try sailing and snorkeling.
Autumn in Saudi Mid-September to Mid-December
Autumn brings gentler weather and cool breezes in both Saudi Arabia’s northern regions and the southwestern highlands. While daytime temperatures remain warm and can reach the 30s in early fall, evenings are milder and fit for outdoor strolling, especially along Jeddah’s waterfront, indulging in alfresco dining or visiting Al Ahsa’s cool desert springs.
Winter in Saudi Mid-December to Mid-March
Take advantage of Saudi Arabia’s beautiful winter weather to explore the kingdom. The balmy days and cool nights are ideal for camping, rock climbing or exploring Saudi Arabia’s verdant highlands and bustling cities, from Riyadh to Jeddah. Average winter temperatures are in the teens, but visitors might be lucky enough to see snowfall in the mountains of the northern regions blanketing the slopes and desert sands.
Other important Q&A
The customs and laws
Cultural heritage and religion inform the public etiquette that’s expected and practiced in Saudi Arabia. If you’re not familiar with Saudi Arabia’s laws and customs, don’t worry: Behind these conventions are values that people across many cultures are accustomed to, including respect for others, decorum in public and protection of privacy. Before your trip, learn more about how to act and dress in Saudi Arabia, as well as the role of religion and rules about alcohol and other substances.
Saudi dress code
In public, both men and women are asked to dress modestly, avoiding tight-fitting clothes and items with profane language or images. Women should cover their shoulders and knees in public. (Consider packing blouses with sleeves, scarves or shawls for your shoulders and mid- to maxi-length skirts and dresses, capris or pants to cover your knees.)
Public decency laws
Public displays of affection are not consistent with the local culture. Visitors should also avoid using profane language or gestures.
Saudi currency and payments
Currency exchange and transactions are easy in Saudi Arabia. And even if you don’t yet know the difference between a riyal and a halala, there’s no need to worry: Many businesses in the kingdom accept credit cards and contactless payments. Use this guide to learn the ins and outs of Saudi currency and exchange rates so you can get back to scuba diving, sightseeing and shopping instead.
Respecting Saudi religion
During prayer time in Saudi Arabia, five times a day, music is turned off in public places and many shops close briefly. For one month a year, during Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. If you visit during Ramadan, the most sacred month of the year in Islam, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day out of respect. Learn more about how to participate in Ramadan, whether you’re visiting Jeddah or Riyadh.
Illegal substances and alcohol
The sale, purchase and consumption of alcohol are illegal in Saudi Arabia. It is also illegal to bring alcohol or drugs into the country, so plan to unwind with coffee or tea at one of the country›s many cafés instead.
What is the Saudi exchange rate?
The U.S. dollar is equivalent to SAR3.75 (fixed rate). All banks in the kingdom offer currency exchange services. You can also find exchange bureaus at airports, some shopping centers and other locations throughout the country. Banking hours are generally from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday to Thursday. (Exchange bureaus are often open later, although they may charge higher commission fees.) Banks are usually open at international airports and currency transactions are at a lower rate than specialist currency exchanges. ATMs are widely available for the withdrawal of funds using the Visa and Mastercard networks, and credit cards including Visa, Mastercard and American Express are accepted throughout the kingdom. Many businesses also accept digital payment methods, such as Apple Pay.
Contacts
Important contacts to keep on hand in the event of an emergency. There are individual emergency numbers and services in Saudi to connect you with the relevant local authorities. General emergency - 112
Police services
There are two emergency numbers for police assistance in Saudi. There is also an app that allows citizens and residents to file security and traffic reports for humanitarian assistance outside the urban area. Police assistance – 911 / 999 / Kollona Amn
Fire Services
The General Directorate of Civil Defense is responsible for dealing with fire emergencies in Saudi. Fire emergency response – 998
Ambulance Services
Public ambulance services – 997
Flying Ambulance – 123
Saudi Red Crescent Authority ASAFNY
Road and Traffic Emergency Services
Traffic accidents – 993
Roadside Assistance (RSA) – 920003922 / Morni
Najm (non-emergency traffic accident team) – 920000560
Tourism Services
Tourism Call Center - 930
Tourism International Call Center - 920000890
COVID - 19
COVID19- hotline - 937
Whatsapp assistance: 920005937 / mawidapp