Riyadh is a city where futuristic architecture coexists with centuries-old heritage sites. Some of the best attractions in Riyadh allow you to experience the local culture and history, such as wandering through ancient mud-brick districts and participating in lively festivals. To make the most of these diverse experiences, renting a car can be a convenient option. This guide will walk you through the must-try cultural experiences in Riyadh and help you navigate the city with ease.
Riyadh’s historic forts, world-class museums, lively souks, and seasonal festivals invite travellers to explore its heritage in immersive and memorable ways.
Riyadh’s history stretches back centuries, and many of its heritage sites have been carefully preserved for their cultural and historical value. One of the most significant is the At-Turaif district in Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first Saudi capital between 1727 and 1818. Visiting these historic places feels like stepping back in time, surrounded by traditional Najdi architecture and mud-brick buildings.
At-Turaif is the birthplace of the Saudi state, featuring restored mud-brick palaces, narrow lanes, and fortified walls. Founded in the 15th century, it served as the seat of the first Saudi state and the home of the Al Saud family. You can stroll through ancient buildings, explore the Salwa Palace, view old city walls and mosques, and read detailed exhibits explaining the significance of each structure.
Another highlight is Al Masmak Fort, a clay and mud-brick fortress in old Riyadh that symbolises the unification of the modern Saudi state. Today, you can still see the imposing walls, tall watchtowers, and the spearhead lodged in the wooden gate, said to belong to Prince Fahad bin Jalawi during the famous battle. Inside, Masmak Fort has been converted into a museum featuring maps, weapons, artefacts, historical photographs, and a short documentary that re-enacts the dramatic 1902 raid.
Riyadh hosts large-scale celebrations featuring traditional performances, local cuisine, and diverse artistic displays. One of the most famous cultural festivals in Riyadh is the Janadriyah Festival (Al-Janadriyah National Heritage and Culture Festival). Traditionally held each year on the outskirts of Riyadh, it runs for around two weeks until February 24. The festival opens with a thrilling camel race, where dozens of camels sprint across the desert in a dramatic spectacle.
Throughout Janadriyah, you can watch folklore performances, including the Ardah, a traditional sword dance accompanied by drumming and poetry. Musicians play instruments such as the mizmar, and performers wear colourful attire. You can wander through a recreated heritage village where artisans weave carpets, carve wood, or handcraft pottery.
Riyadh also embraces contemporary creativity with modern festivals. A notable example is Noor Riyadh, an annual light-art festival. It transforms the entire city into an open-air gallery of light installations. At night, buildings glow with colourful projections, interactive artworks illuminate public spaces, and grand sculptures shine against the dark sky. Some editions have even featured drone light performances, laser displays, and digital art. Noor Riyadh lasts for several weeks during the cooler months, with installations spread across neighbourhoods, downtown plazas, parks, and historic landmarks.
Riyadh has a wide range of museums and art galleries. A perfect place to begin is the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, located within the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre. As Riyadh’s flagship museum, it houses more than 4,000 artefacts that guide you through the region’s story from prehistoric times to the modern kingdom. The museum is divided into eight expansive halls. In one section, “Man and the Universe,” you’ll find fossils, meteorites, and geological displays that reveal the deep natural history of the Arabian Peninsula.
While the National Museum immerses you in the past, Riyadh’s contemporary art scene showcases the Kingdom’s creative identity. The most exciting place to witness this transformation is the JAX District in Diriyah, a former warehouse zone that has been reinvented as a thriving cultural hub. What was once an industrial area is now filled with artist studios, modern galleries, and stylish cafés.
Inside SAMoCA and the surrounding galleries, you’ll find installations, sculptures, paintings, digital art, and experimental works by Saudi and international artists. Many exhibitions explore themes that blend local heritage with modern global perspectives. You might encounter a photography series by an emerging Saudi artist, a large-scale light installation, or an interactive multimedia piece. JAX District also hosts major international events such as the Diriyah Biennale, which brings artists from around the world to exhibit in Riyadh.
Beyond JAX, Riyadh has several prominent private galleries. Naila Art Gallery and L’Art Pur Gallery frequently exhibit works from leading Middle Eastern artists and support the local creative community. These galleries are typically free to enter. Opening hours in Riyadh can vary. Many museums close during midday, often between noon and 4 pm. Some close entirely on certain days, such as Fridays.
One of the great joys of exploring Riyadh is wandering through its traditional markets, known as souks. Visiting a souk is a cultural encounter where you can meet local traders, admire traditional craftsmanship, and discover items unique to the region. The markets sell everything from spices and perfumes to carpets, antiques, and handmade goods.
Souq Al-Zal is the oldest and most famous traditional bazaar in Riyadh. Located in the historic Deira district near Masmak Fort, this centuries-old market is named after “Al-Zal,” an old Arabic term for handmade carpets. One of the most atmospheric sections of the souk is the perfume and spice area, where the scent of oud incense fills the air and sacks of saffron, cardamom and dried lemons line the shelves.
Souq Al-Zal feels like a living museum of Saudi heritage. On certain days, usually Fridays, the heart of the market hosts an open auction where antiques and carpets are sold to a crowd of eager bidders—an unmissable sight if you are there at the right time. Around the souk’s perimeter, traditional tailors produce clothing such as the elegant bisht (a ceremonial cloak for men) and intricate abayas for women. Nearby, Deira Souk is famous for its gold and jewellery shops. Riyadh’s gold markets sparkle with 21k and 22k gold pieces. Necklaces, bangles and earrings are often designed with intricate Middle Eastern patterns.
Riyadh’s traditional cuisine is full of flavour and deeply tied to the country’s heritage. One of the best places to experience this is in a restaurant designed like an old Najdi home, complete with mud-brick walls, carved wooden doors, and cosy majlis seating. Classic dishes to try include kabsa, a fragrant spiced rice topped with tender lamb or chicken, and mandi, known for its smoky, pit-cooked flavour.
For something hearty, jareesh (a wheat and yoghurt dish) and margoog (a rich Najdi stew with vegetables and dough pieces) offer comforting tastes of home-stle cooking. The experience becomes even more atmospheric with lanterns, traditional décor and soft oud music. End your meal with maamoul or kunafa, and don’t miss Arabic coffee (gahwa) or sweet Saudi tea. Outside restaurants, street vendors sell shawarma, fresh bread, or winter drinks like habbat al-hamra.
Riyadh rewards curious travellers with experiences full of history, art, flavour, and everyday life. Whether you’re wandering through centuries-old districts, joining a festival, exploring museums, or savouring traditional dishes, each moment brings you closer to the spirit of Saudi Arabia.Rent a car in Riyadh with Final Rentals to make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Final Rentals offers reliable service, a wide range of vehicle options, and a convenient pick-up option at King Khalid International Airport. For extra convenience, download the Final Rentals app on Google Play and the App Store.
