Riyadh City Guide: Modern Metropolis Meets Ancient Heritage

Key Takeaways

• The Riyadh Metro (6 lines, 176 km) costs SAR 4–8 per trip and is the fastest way to reach Al-Olaya, Al-Bathaa and King Abdullah Financial District — it runs 06:00–midnight Sunday to Thursday and until 01:00 on weekends.
• Diriyah Season (typically October–February) adds concerts, art installations and night markets; the At-Turaif entry rises to SAR 95–130 during festival nights but is worth it for the illuminated mud-brick towers.
• Budget SAR 60–100 per person for a full meal at a mid-range restaurant in Al-Olaya, or SAR 15–25 for traditional kabsa and mandi in the Al-Bathaa district near the old souq.
• Temperatures peak at 42–47 °C from June to August; the most comfortable months are November to March when daytime highs sit at 18–24 °C — plan major sightseeing for this window.
• Women visiting in 2026 can drive, travel solo and visit all public venues; the abaya is no longer mandatory but modest dress covering shoulders and knees is advised in heritage and religious sites.