Riyadh Province
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Historical At-Turaif World Heritage Site - Riyadh

4.7Reviews
At-Turaif District, Wadi Hanifah, Ad Diriyah Saudi Arabia
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Description

Located in the old city of Ad Diriyah in the northwestern outskirts of Riyadh, the historic At Turaif World Heritage Site was the original home of the royal family of Saudi Arabia and represented the capital of their dynasty up till 1818. The Al Turaif is a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts many local and international tourists every year. It is also famous for its Najdi architectural style, which is specific to the Arabian Peninsula. The At-Turaif UNESCO World Heritage site is essentially an open air museum which allows visitors to experience the birthplace of Saudi Arabia.

Attractions    

In 2018 the Saudi government launched a massive restoration process in the historic At Turaif District in an attempt to document the archaeological sites of the district and turn it into an open air museum. 

At Turaif World Heritage Site is nothing less than a gateway into the past. The architecture, the alleyways, and the artifacts give you an insight into what the capital of the first Saudi state looked like. It is also home to a number of museums that house different handicrafts, weapons, and utensils from the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

There are also a number of historically important sites in this district including the Salwa Palace, Saad bin Saud Palace, At Turaif Bath House, and the Imam Mohammad bin Saud Mosque. The Salwa Palace is four stories tall which makes it the largest palace in all of Diriyah whereas the Saad bin Saud Palace, though much smaller in size, is equally as beautiful with its lush courtyards and traditional mud walls.

The At-Turaif World Heritage Site is located opposite the Al Bujairi Heritage Park in Diriyah which is home to the newly opened Bujairi Terrace which is a world class fine dining destination with over 20 international and local restaurants and cafes.

Destination Type
Historical Site
Landmark

Location

At-Turaif District, Wadi Hanifah, Ad Diriyah Saudi Arabia

Nearby Restaurants

Wacafe - At Turaif - Riyadh
Riyadh (0.0 km away)
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Tatel - Bujairi Terrace - Riyadh
Riyadh (0.3 km away)
4.7
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Reviews

Reviews
4.7
Excellent
from 47 reviews
Excellent
39
Very Good
6
Good
0
Average
1
Poor
1
Customer service
0.0
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0.0
Value for money
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Reviews
Robert M

Robert M

02/19/2024 11:11

Google review

This whole development has been underway for 3 years but open enough to take a free tour through even as they still restore it back the beauty it was once again. Best to see at night
Jakub Komorný

Jakub Komorný

02/12/2024 20:35

Google review

This is beautiful iconic and very important place in Saudi Arabia. I absolutely recommend to visit this area. It is mandatory visit when visiting amazing Riyadh. Enjoy ;)
Moosa Awadah

Moosa Awadah

02/06/2024 15:52

Google review

Very beautiful and historic location that is well organized and suited for visitors. Lots of areas to walk and explore. The staff at the area are extremely helpful and available to suggest additional routes and experiences. It was not very busy in the afternoon however it got more busy towards the evening. Highly recommended for people interested in Saudi history.
Mateusz Czerniga

Mateusz Czerniga

02/03/2024 19:26

Google review

An atmospheric place that offers a story that is a piece of history. A perfect place for a walk, rest and meal. Surprisingly, entry is free and water is available to visitors. In the afternoons and on the weekends, entry costs SAR 50, but the fee can then be "discounted" at any restaurant available on site.
Ahmed Al-Akki

Ahmed Al-Akki

01/17/2024 18:59

Google review

A beautiful historical landmark. It is actually a historic small town with mud buildings. The area encompasses several museums, mosques and houses/palaces. It is a very nice walk through the old town and there are a lot a guides to help you navigate the area and answer any questions you might have.
Showing 1 - 5 of 47 total
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