On a quest to discover Saudi history? Looking to take a peak into the Kingdom’s establishment? There’s no better place to soak up Saudi Arabian heritage quite like the National Museum of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh. Also known as King Abdul Aziz Historical Centre, this is a top spot to visit if you’re in the market for learning, discovery and activities for the family.
The arts and culture space is divided into four exhibition halls, each offering unique learning opportunities. Whether you’ve never been to the National Museum of Saudi Arabia before or you’re a regular at the cultural landmark in Riyadh, there’s always more to discover. To help you plan your next trip, here’s everything to know about the National Museum of Saudi Arabia.
Where is the National Museum of Saudi Arabia located?
Located in the heart of Riyadh’s Al Murabba district, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia is situated around the Masmak Fortress adjacent to Al Murabba Historical Palace.
After visiting the museum, you can also check out the souvenirs, bukhoor (incense) shops and textile stores located in the area’s famous marketplace, Souk Al Zal.
When is the museum open?
The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is open six days of the week. It is closed on Sundays. The hours vary by day with the museum open Monday to Wednesday from 9am to 7pm, Thursday 9am to10pm, Friday 2pm to 10pm and Saturday 9am to 7pm.
How much does a ticket cost?
Visiting the National Museum of Saudi Arabia is one of the great affordable things to do in Riyadh. The entrance fee per person to marvel at the impressive works inside this 28,000 square feet space is SAR10.
How can you make the most of your experience at the National Museum of Saudi Arabia?
You could easily spend a morning or afternoon at the Riyadh museum, but it’s best to clear at least two hours of your schedule so you can properly dive into the ancient works at the National Museum of Saudi Arabia. Put on comfy shoes because there’s a lot of walking at the expansive space to take everything in. And don’t forget to charge your phone or camera. This is one of Riyadh’s great photo spots.
What are the themes of the four exhibition halls?
The first hall of the National Museum of Saudi Arabia revolves around man and the universe with the 1,500 square metre space being dedicated to earth’s history. Feast your eyes on gorgeous rock cravings, prehistoric animals like the mastodon (extinct elephantine mammals), a recreation of the Tuwaiq Mountain Range and more.
The second hall explores ancient Arab civilisations and kingdoms. Displays include Thamudic, Aramaic and Islamic writings carved into stone slabs, jewellery, murals and portraits from the Assyrian Palace and more.
Head to hall three at the National Museum of Saudi Arabia to dig deep into Islamic history. See 500-year-old manuscripts of the Qura’n, a ceramic mural and more from the early years of Islam.
The final hall displays the birth of Saudi Arabia as a nation, from the first two states to the unification of the Kingdom. Get a glimpse of the era through the ancient treasure of scripts, rare books and coins. There’s also a Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques showcase.
SAR10. Open Mon-Wed 9am-7pm. Thu 9am-10pm. Fri 2pm-10pm. Sat 9am-7pm. Closed Sun. King Saud Rd, Historical Centre, instagram.com/saudimuseum.
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