Check out Best Places to Visit in Diriyah! Explore the list of top things to do in Diriyah that you can't miss during your holiday!

Places to Visit in Diriyah

Check out Best Places to Visit in Diriyah! Explore the list of top things to do in Diriyah that you can't miss during your holiday!

Destinations in Riyadh

Diriyah, A Global Heritage and Cultural Destination

Thanks to its rich history and culture, Diriyah Saudi Arabia is a rapidly growing tourist destination on the bucket list of every traveller visiting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Diriyah is conveniently located on the northwestern outskirts of Riyadh yet is less than 30 minutes from King Khalid International Airport and 15 minutes from downtown Riyadh.  Diriyah is steeped in history as the former capital of the first Saudi State. 


This charming town allows travellers to explore Saudi Arabia's rich past and culture. Diriyah also offers scenic natural beauty and some of the popular attractions in the vicinity include the At-Turaif World Heritage Site, The Buraiji Heritage Park and the newly opened Bujairi Terrace which offers world class restaurants and cafes.


The Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA)is aiming to transform Diriyah into one of the world’s leading cultural and heritage destinations. The area has seen renewed interest as it has become one giga-projects of the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF). The Diriyah Gate Development Authority is spearheading this $20 Billion cultural and tourism project. As part of their efforts, a number of sites have been developed while a lot more is in store for this region. 

At Turaif World Heritage Site

Diriyah is divided into various districts such as At-Turaif district, Al-Bujairi, Al-Suraiha, and the Ghasiba district. At-Turaif District is the most important district and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is made up of well-preserved mud-brick buildings and museums that tell the story of the town's history and the Al Saud family. The Salwa Palace (Diriyah Palace) used to be the center of power of the first Saudi state.


At-Turaif District is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the opportunity to learn about the cultural heritage of the area. At-Turaif  is the ancestral home of the royal Al Saud family. Visitors can explore the district and discover the traditional Najdi architecture, rich history, and culture of the town. Diriyah is known as "The City of Earth" due its mudbrick consruction which has been preserved over the centuriees. The restoration of the At Turaif district helps visitors experience how life was 300 years ago.

The Natural Beauty of Diriyah

Diriyah is not just about history, it also offers plenty of natural beauty. The old city is surrounded by palm groves and is located on the edge of a desert, providing visitors with a unique blend of history and nature. The palm groves are a breathtaking sight and offer visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the countryside. 


Wadi Hanifa is the valley located in the historic city of Diriyah in Saudi Arabia. It is a picturesque natural landscape that is known for its lush vegetation and crystal-clear streams. In the past, Wadi Hanifa was an important source of irrigation for the surrounding agricultural lands and was also used as a stopover for travellers on their way to the city. 


Today, Wadi Hanifa is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the natural beauty of the area and learn about the local culture. There are many walking and hiking trails that wind through the valley, offering visitors a chance to explore the area's unique flora and fauna. The valley is also home to several historical sites, including ancient wells, fortresses, and abandoned settlements, which provide insight into the area's rich history and cultural heritage.

Cultural Offerings of Diriyah

As part of Saudi Vision 2030, the Diriyah Gate plan is set to transform the area into a major tourist destination, with plans to develop a wide range of cultural, entertainment, and sports-related venues. The town is home to a variety of cultural and entertainment venues, such as  museums, and art galleries. Diriyah also hosts the annual Formula E championships, the world’s first fully electric street racing series known as the Diriyah E Prix.

Additionally, the town is host to the annual Diriyah Season, a cultural festival that takes place in the town and features a variety of events such as performances and exhibitions. Upcoming events of the Diriyah Season include Diriyah Nights and Diriyah Urban Festival. Visitors can experience the unique blend of history and modern culture that can be found in Diriyah. The festival is a great opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions of the area and to experience the lively atmosphere of the town.

Bujairi Terrace Restaurants & Attractions

The recent developments in the areas like Al Bujairi Heritage Park, and Bujairi Terrace are great places to visit. The Bujairi Terrace offers visitors a fantastic view of the historic landmark At-Turaif and the surrounding area. Apart from this, over 20 world-class restaurants offering the finest cuisines await visitors at this spectacular terrace. These restaurants offer both international as well as local dishes


For those looking for luxury accommodation, the newly planned Diriyah Square, which is at the heart of the Diriyah master plan aims to offer over 400 global and local Saudi retail brands together with ultra luxury hotels brands including The Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons.  The new city is planned to 100% walkable to encourage healthy living as well as be powered by 100% renewable energy.

Diriyah Entry Pass and Admission

Diriyah is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history and culture of Saudi Arabia. With its blend of historical attractions, natural beauty, cultural offerings, and new developments, the historic city of Diriyah is a must-see destination for any traveller interested in exploring the country. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing and luxurious getaway, Diriyah has something to offer.


Food lovers will especially love the world class Bujairi Terrace restaurants. With its relaxing ambiance and world-class tastes, it is quickly transforming into a top food destination in the Riyadh. So, make sure to add it to your travel itinerary and experience the beauty and charm of the historic city of Diriyah.

OPENING HOURS | BUJAIRI TERRACE 

  • Sat to Wed: 10am to 12am 
  • Thursday: 10am to 1am 
  • Friday & holidays: 2pm to 1am 

 

OPENING HOURS | AT-TURAIF 

  • Sun to Wed: 10am to 12am (last entry at 11pm) 
  • Fri: 2pm to 12am (last entry at 11pm) 
  • Sat: 10am to 12am (last entry at 11pm)

 

You book entry tickets online here.

Note: If you have a reservation at one of the Bujairi Terrace restaurants you do not need to purchase an entry ticket to enter Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah.