Riyadh does not have monuments and other attractions like some other capital
cities of Middle East because of its relatively new origin.
However, things to do and visit surely don’t miss:
Al Bathaa, the heart of the city and also the oldest part,
is where most of the tourists needs are fulfilled: it is home to facilities
like bus stand, shopping area, post office, and banks.
The National Museum displays the history of civilization in
the Arabian peninsula.
Other interesting museums are the Museum of Archaeology and Ethnography,
the Folklore Museum and the King Faisal Museum
in the King Faisal Foundation.
The Masmak Fortress, built around 1865, has been renovated
and made attractive to the tourists coming in. The traditional Diwan (sitting
room of the king) is a major attraction.
The diplomatic quarter, with modern buildings, built in the
old Arabic style, is also worth a visit.
Midan Aladl, Justice Square, is a beautiful square between
the Big Mosque and Qasr almasmak.
King Saudi University in Riyadh, one of the biggest libraries
in Saudi Arabia, is a seven floor building of the size of a big mall, each floor
specialize in one general topic with arabic books on your right side and other
languages on the left side.
Other attractions include: Dira Square, Murabba Palace, Janadriyah Festival
and the exiting Camel Races.
To get a feel for the landscape surrounding the capital, make an excursion to
the "camel trails" along the escarpment southeast of town. They offer
some beautiful and unforgettable views of the desert!
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