The Location – PG Connects Leaders Summit

Get to know a little bit more about Riyadh

Both Saudi Arabia’s official capital and known as its capital of culture, this magnificent city is the largest in Saudi Arabia and in the Arabian Peninsula as a whole. It’s located in the very heart of Saudi Arabia and is a large, sprawling city that blends the beauty of the desert around it with impressive, modern infrastructure. It’s also the most populated city in Saudi Arabia with over 7.5 million people living in the area. There’s a large concentration of over 4,000 mosques in the city, numerous souks (marketplaces) and many other shopping centres to enjoy in the vibrant city centre.

Riyadh has a very diverse population as well, with Saudi nationals making up about two-thirds of the city’s population, the rest made of prominently Asian and Arab people with a small number of Europeans and Americans throughout the city, as well. It’s a youthful city, with over half the residents being under 20 years of age.

Overall, this marvellous city is the most cosmopolitan in all of Saudi Arabia, and visiting can be an immensely culturally enriching experience.

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Explore the magic of Riyadh!

Riyadh is a massive city, and we know just how overwhelming it can be to decide where the absolute must-see destinations are! In order to help you with planning ahead, we’ve put together a list of some of the most incredible places in Riyadh that you need to visit. These attractions span everything from modern skyscrapers presenting you with endless shopping opportunities and magnificent views of the heart of the city to going beyond Riyadh and exploring the very Edge of the World, an unmissable geological wonder in the desert, with dramatic cliffs presenting a glorious view of the horizon and desert landscape. There’s something for everyone, and we strongly urge you to book a few days around the Summit to make the most of the location and get to fully experience the incredible city of Riyadh and all the marvels Saudi Arabia has to offer.

Kingdom Tower SkybridgeFor marvellous views, visit the Skybridge in Kingdom Tower – it’s the most famous building in Riyadh and features a massive shopping mall and impressive full 360 view from the Skybridge!

Masmak FortVisit one of the most historically significant sites in Riyadh, the famous Masmak Fort. It’s preserved from the 19th century and now features a museum for visitors to learn about the history of the fortress for free (keep in mind that they have family days, singles days, days separated by gender so you might want to check admission ahead of time).
Image credit: Francisco Anzola

Deerah SouqShop for antique artefacts at the Deerah Souq (souq meaning marketplace), also known as the Al-Thumairi Souq. It’s the most popular and historic souks in the area and close to the Masmak Fort. It’s a super tourist-friendly souq as well, with most shop owners speaking some English. The labyrinth of shops presents an incredible mix of modern and traditional clothes, carpets, gold, silver, souvenirs and much more. Don’t miss exploring its popular gold souq and antiques souq areas!

National Museum of Saudi ArabiaPop by the National Museum of Saudi Arabia and learn all about the history of the country! You’ll want to reserve about two hours to go through the entirety of the large museum.

DiriyahEnjoy visiting the UNESCO Heritage Site at the “pearl of Saudi Arabia”, Diriyah. Right on the outskirts of the city, the mud architecture-built city used to be among the largest cities in the Arabian Peninsula until its destruction in the early 19th century. It’s a highly popular tourist destination, but make sure you check that it’s open by visiting the official site.
Image credit: Xristoph

Jebel FihraynIf you save some extra time around the summit to venture beyond Riyadh, you won’t want to miss visiting the Edge of the World. Also known as Jebel Fihrayn, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in Saudi Arabia. It has a gorgeous expansive view of the horizon overlooking its surroundings from cliffs that are 300 metres high. Observe the glory of the desert landscape and discover the marvels of camels travelling through and fossils spread out throughout the grounds.
Image credit: Peter Dowley

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Want to know more about all the unmissable sights and experiences Riyadh has to offer? The articles below are incredible guides to discovering more of what this fantastic city has in store:

AGAINST THE COMPASS

Things to Do in Riyadh in 3 Days

TRAVEL LENS

19 Best Things to Do in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

CULTURETRIP

Best Things To Do in Riyadh