Following my friend's visit and ahead of my mom staying with us next week, I thought I write down the list of things I would not want any of our guests to miss out on. Ramadan is just around the corner and Riyadh Season is coming to an end soon bringing a change of pace to the city really coming to life when the sun goes down.
Going out for dinner at Bujairi Terrace
I love this place. Anyone who enjoys a nice walk, gorgeous views and fine dining would agree. There's plenty of different cousines to choose from to suit everyone's preferences, and the ambiance is always gorgeous. Diriyah nights have come to an end, but there is still plenty to see in the area.
The Scientist's Gift Programme
This fantastic, non-profit initiative was launched to introduce visitors to the Kingdom during an unforgettable afternoon. It does an incredible job correcting misconceptions about the country and Islam. It's an approximately five hour programme that includes a visit to Masmak Fortress where visitors learn about the history of the city. This is followed by a walk around the neighbourhood and the nearby traditional Souk. Visitors are then taken to Al-Rajhi Grand Mosque, wlthe largest one in the capital. It's an Islamic Centre complete with a library. Without having a basic understanding of Islam, no visitor can begin to understand Saudi Arabia. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn and ask questions in an informal, non-judgemental environment. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. There are also books in a lot of languages to help people learn more about the culture. The tour is then concluded with a traditional Saudi dinner at one of the most famous and popular Najdi restaurants in town. Learn more about the programme here.
Visiting a Souk
My friend and mom have both previously visited the Middle East and have been to traditional markets before, but it's always a really fun activity getting lost in the hustle and bustle, and a great opportunity to find lla bargain, little tschotschkes and souvenirs. I love the convenience of the compound's shopping bus, which goes to a different mall or market every day.
Drive out to the Red Sand Dunes
We finally bought ourselves a car! Due to supply chain disruptions and hige demans it was impossible to get a new 4 wheel drive, and it took us months before we found a decently priced, barely used Toyota SUV. Now that insurance and license plate and all the admin is finally sorted, we're really excited to take it out with a guide for a trip to the desert and learn to navigate the dunes. Unfortunately my friend just about kissed out on it, but hopefully my mom can experience a desert sunset with us. And by the time our next visitors roll around, we'll be experts at desert camping (hopefully).
Visit the DQ and have Brunch at Bateel Cafe
Of all the brunches I've tried in Riyadh so far, Bateel had the best offer. My favourite branch is the one in the DQ (havent tried the one in At Turaif yet). Their Avocado on toast with smoked salmon and a poached egg is sublime. Although our guests might want something more exotic, in which case there is also a Lebanese breakfast available with flatbread and spreads such as hummus and fresh labneh. And the iced Saudi Latte is a must! I could bathe in that stuff, it's so good. Seriously!
+1 Take a Train to Hofuf
If we have time and the weather is nice still, I'm planning to have a short, 2.5 hour train ride to Al Hofuf. Our train obsessed toddlers would definitely be over the Moon! Just a stone throw away from here are the caves of Al Qarah Mountain with beautiful valleys and panoramic views of Al-Ahsa oasis.
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