To many people, Saudi Arabia is associated with desert and historical places of worship. But beneath the sands, a modern metropolis is taking root: Riyadh is the kingdom’s vibrant capital that is currently experiencing a remarkable transformation. Fasten your seat belts, because it is time to discover this new shining star of the Middle East.
From Humble Beginnings to Bustling Hub:
Riyadh’s narrative is that it was a small settlement made of mudbricks. Fast forward to today and it has become a city that has grown to become one of the biggest and most developed cities in the world with a blend of history and modernity. High rises touch the heavens and the streets are alive with activity. This change is driven by Vision 2030, a national plan that aims at developing the Saudi economy and making Riyadh a global city for business, tourism, and investment. This ambitious plan is attracting huge investments and encouraging a very active spirit of entrepreneurship. You can learn more about Vision 2030 on the official website:https://www.vision2030.gov.sa/en/
A City Reborn: Discovering Riyadh’s Hidden Gems:
Riyadh is not only the city of modern architecture and new technologies, but it also has a long history. The vast area of Diriyah, the first capital of Riyadh, is a UNESCO site with restored clay houses to give a feel of the old city. See the UNESCO listing here:https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1329/ For the lovers of art, the recently launched Diriyah Biennale is a spectacle that will display contemporary art from across the globe. Stay updated on the Diriyah Biennale through their website: https://biennale.org.sa/ History lovers can explore the National Museum and Architecture lovers can visit the Kingdom Centre which is a huge building offering stunning views of the city.
Beyond the City Limits:
There are many adventures that are waiting for you out there. Riyadh is not all about cityscapes. Step out and you will be met by some of the most beautiful sceneries that nature has to offer. Edge of the World, a dramatic cliff that overlooks a vast desert, is perfect for the dramatic view for the adventurous. Tourists interested in nature can visit Thumamah National Park which is a large park that hosts a variety of plant and animal species. For culture lovers, there is the colourful Janadriyah Festival where arts and crafts, music and dance are showcased. Learn more about the Janadriyah Festival here: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/al-janadriyah-festival
A Culinary Adventure for Every Palate:
The food culture of Riyadh is quite diverse. From the delicious Saudi dishes such as the juicy machboos and the spicy kabsa to the international dishes, there is something for everyone. Do not let the opportunity to try the new trends in the street food, where sellers provide tasty and cheap meals of local cuisine.
Riyadh Season – A Celebration of Fun:
Looking for entertainment? The answer is Riyadh Season, which is a year-round festival series. From fun filled theme parks to enthralling concerts and sports events, there is something for everyone. Think about skiing in the middle of the desert during Riyadh Season’s “Winter Wonderland” or watching the most intense sporting events. Keep an eye on the Riyadh Season website for upcoming events: https://riyadhseason.com/
Unveiling the Future:
The future of Riyadh holds even more in store for the city. The city is set to be among the largest metro networks in the world, which means that people will spend less time commuting. Also, large-scale initiatives such as the Qiddiya entertainment city project will revolutionize leisure and entertainment in the region.
Riyadh: Not Just a City, But a Feeling:
Riyadh is a city in transition, where tradition and modernity go hand in hand. It is a city where the echoes of the past are heard in the stones, and the dreams of the future are built in steel and glass. Regardless of whether you are interested in cultural experiences, food, or extreme activities, Riyadh will not leave you indifferent. Therefore, let’s start packing and prepare for the journey to unveil the Saudi transformation’s soul – Riyadh.