Looking for a neat spot to get your nose stuck in a book? We have just the place in Riyadh for you. King Fahad Library and Park is a favourite place of many in Saudi Arabia’s capital. Operating all days of the week, the library first launched back in 1988, making it one of the long-standing attractions in Riyadh. Here are five reasons to stop by King Fahad Library and Park in Riyadh today.
1. To admire the unique design
Located in the heart of Riyadh, this cool building has a beautiful modern architectural form decorated with Arabic ornaments and marble inscriptions. Inside is equally striking. King Fahad Library has four floor that are painted in a minimalistic all-white, and the space is furnished with Islamic décor. As you can tell, the Riyadh library is an Insta-worthy place so don’t forget to click a few shots while you’re there – without distributing your fellow readers of course.
2. To peruse the extensive collection of books and manuscripts
The King Fahd Library is home to a huge number of manuscripts, heritage books, rare photographs, publications and selected documents. There are more than 6,000 original and rare manuscripts. The library has tonnes of research material especially on the subject of Arab and Islamic civilisation, like the manuscript of Zad al-Ma’ad by Ibn al-Qayyim in the handwriting of Suleiman bin Abdullah bin Sheikh Muhammad bin Abd al-Wahhab, written in 1220 AH, among others.
3. To enjoy the peaceful library environment
If you’re a possible bookworm who needs peace and quiet when reading, this is the spot for you. King Fahad Library aims to provide a comfortable environment for readers through the designated halls and large numbers of various books. With more than 2.4 million books and a comfy environment for long reading sessions, what more could you need?
4. To stroll in the library’s garden
Since its start, the back garden of King Fahd Library has gained local popularity due to its vast open area which is covered by greenery and fountains. Let the children run free in the beautiful garden. Want to grab a bite? There are a lot of cafés and restaurants that should cater to what you’re craving.
5. To Enjoy events and lectures
Over the past decade, King Fahad Library has been hosting and organizing various events, conferences and lectures that focus on Arab and Islamic culture and civilization. The library management also launches events related to the heritage and history of the country in the outdoor area. Riyadh’s Philosophy Conference was also hosted in this iconic spot.
Open daily. Olaya District, kfnl.gov.sa (011 418 6111).
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