Looking for a traditional place to shop for Ramadan goodies? There are a number of fantastic souks in Riyadh for Ramadan 2022. These souks are some of the oldest marketplaces in Riyadh and they come alive during Ramadan. Additionally, these open souks are some of the best if you’re in the market (sorry, not sorry) for a great time, and an even greater deal. Here are the top souks in Riyadh for Ramadan to explore.
Almaigliah Souq
Looking for a great scent on a budget? Almaigliah Souq might just be your best friend when it comes to souks in Riyadh for Ramadan. This souk has a great selection of perfumes, bukhoor (scented wood chips soaked in perfume oil for a long time), and more. Also in the market are abayas, thobe, and traditional clothing, cosmetics, fabrics, and more.
Open Sat-Thu 9am-noon, 7pm-midnight. Fri 7pm-midnight. Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Bin Mohammad Road, Diriyah.
Souq Al Owais
Wondering where to start at the souks in Riyadh for Ramadan? This beautiful open market caters to all your needs. At first look it will seem as if this souk only stocks elegant gold and silver jewellery, but upon closer inspection, you’ll be greeted by tonnes of abaya stores, textiles, gorgeous bishts, and tiny stalls that sell just about everything from food to clothes. Grab a few riyals and keep your haggling skills in the clutch.
Open daily 8.30am-midnight. Olaya St, King Fahd.
Souq Al Thumairi
The small lanes here are packed with local craftsmanship that will likely blow you away. Boutique stores sell everything from jewellery, rugs, clothing, pots and even silverware. There aren’t many places to find handmade, authentic, Saudi souvenirs located in the heart of old Riyadh.
Want something a little extra to give your iftar dishes that certain zing? You can also shop for fresh herbs, spices and more, coffee beans and saffron. It’s easy to spend an entire night here and while you’re there, don’t forget to make a pit stop at one of the many little food stalls and refuel with some Arabic coffee and delicious dates. on of the top souks in Riyadh.
Open Sat-Thu 9am-noon & 8pm-midnight; Fri 8pm-midnight. Souq Al Thumairi, Al Thumairi Street.
Souq Al Zel
Incense, antiques, textiles and more – take your pick. Souq-al-Zal is found in the Diriyah neighbourhood and is the oldest and biggest antique marketplace in Riyadh, making it one of Riyadh’s most popular attractions. Its rich cultural history dates back to 1901, making it one of long-running souks in Riyadh for Ramadan. Shop for musky oud perfumes, handmade camel leather slippers and traditional artifacts such as Arabic coffee pots (dallahs). The name, Souq Al Zel, translates to “carpet market”, and the place stocks gorgeous handwoven brightly coloured carpets from all over the world, too. It’s one of the souks in Riyadh for Ramadan that promises interesting items everywhere you look.
Open daily 8am-10pm. Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Ibrahim Street، Ad Dirah.
The Date Souq
Just the market we’re all after this Ramadan, dates are traditionally used to break one’s fast and what better place to shop for them than a dedicated souk? The dates available vary in colour, size, ripeness and sweetness but we’d suggest going for the ajwa variety.
These may be a little more pricy than the rest of the bunch, but they are grown exclusively in Medina, and are the most celebrated variety of dates across the Kingdom. The hugely popular souk is located just off of Exit 14 in Riyadh, and it also sells loads of fruits and vegetables.
Open 7am-11pm. 7623 Eastern Ring Branch Rd, Ar Rawabi.
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How to break your fast during Ramadan 2022.
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