Nahla Zayed Nestled in a lush oasis within the Arabian desert, the historic town of Diriyah stands along the banks of Wadi Hanifa in northwestern Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This ancient settlement, established in 1446 AD, offers visitors an opportunity to explore over 600 years of cultural and historical heritage. With its centuries-old neighborhoods, significant landmarks, and unique natural landscape, Diriyah provides a window into Saudi Arabia’s rich and storied past, now enriched with new avenues of entertainment highlighted by the annual Diriyah Season.
Al Bujairi Terrace:
Located in Diriyah, about 18 km from the center of Riyadh, Al Bujairi Terrace offers visitors the chance to enjoy beautiful natural scenery, perfect for group outings or solo trips. You can take advantage of the dedicated cycling paths or explore streets that still hold the historical essence and stories of the Kingdom, dating back to when Diriyah was the capital of the first Saudi state.
Al Bujairi Heritage and Tourist Park is a haven of palm trees, vast green spaces, and serene lakes. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along pathways surrounded by trees and flowers, all while overlooking natural lakes. Alternatively, you can relax on the wooden benches and terraces, taking in breathtaking views where the rich colors of nature blend with the rocky formations and elevations, all amid fresh, clean air.
Luxury International Restaurants:
Spanning 15,000 square meters Al Bujairi Terrace is home to a wide selection of both international and local restaurants and shops, with designs inspired by the rich heritage of Najd and its architectural artistry. It is the ultimate upscale destination for a refined dining experience, where you are surrounded by culture, history, and breathtaking views.
The terrace offers a variety of global flavors, including Michelin-starred restaurants serving Italian, French, Spanish, and American cuisines. It also hosts several renowned restaurants opening for the first time in the Middle East, such as Mastro’s and Bruno, alongside Café de l’Esplandade. Additionally, you can indulge in traditional Saudi dishes with a modern twist at Tekya restaurant, adding a unique local touch to your culinary journey.
At-Turaif District (UNESCO World Heritage Site):
The impressive palaces, mosques, and homes built from mudbrick in At-Turaif district are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, the museums in this historic area tell the story of its early inhabitants and highlight the history of the Saudi state, while delving into the unique Najdi and Islamic architecture.
A visit to At-Turaif provides visitors with a rare opportunity to walk through the history of the first Saudi state while exploring the ancient Najdi and Islamic architectural styles and discovering its castles and buildings constructed with mud and palm trunks- structures that stood tall and endured through the centuries.
Salwa Palace:
At the forefront of the At-Turaif district stands Salwa Palace, spanning 10,000 square meters. It is one of the prominent landmarks of the area and a significant historical site. Established in 1765, the palace served as the seat of power during the first Saudi state. Its name, “Salwa,” meaning solace, was inspired by the multi-functional design of the building, providing comfort and refuge to its residents and visitors alike.
Diriyah Season:
As part of the Saudi Winter Program, Diriyah Season is an annual festival celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Diriyah. The season offers a wide range of events and unique experiences tailored to the interests of visitors from all over the world. With live performances, art exhibitions, culinary experiences, and outdoor activities, it’s an ideal destination for families, friends, and individuals of all ages to enjoy a memorable time.
Exploring Diriyah has become more convenient for tourists, thanks to streamlined visa options for entering Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom offers various visa types to facilitate travel for leisure, Umrah, family visits, and business events, including the Umrah visa, tourism visa, transit visa, and family & friends visa. Citizens of 66 countries are eligible for electronic visas or visas on arrival, as are residents of the United States, the United Kingdom, EU countries, and holders of US, UK, and Schengen visas, as well as residents of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
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