Riyadh is super easy to get around, with a well-priced taxi system, recently introduced bus routes and the soon-to-launch Metro covering the city from corner to corner.
But from time to time, it’s good to get out and stretch those legs a bit. Not only is walking a wonderful way to see the city and its surrounding areas, but the winter weather in Riyadh – often with a cooling breeze – is simply made for outdoor activities.
From city slickers to desert ramblers and those who like to know there’s a convenient refreshment stop within stepping distance at all times, here are the top places for walking in Riyadh and beyond.
As Sulimaniyah and Olaya
The glitz and glamour of neighbouring city districts As Sulimaniyah and Olaya are best experienced on foot, with highlights including the iconic Kingdom Centre – designed by the world-renowned architect Norman Foster – and the Al Faisaliah Hotel with its suspended glass orb. Stop for a moment and take it all in – gaze up at the towering skyscrapers, inhale wafts of oud emanating from the area’s luxurious Mode and Centria malls and watch a constant stream of supercars blaze on by. As Sulimaniyah demonstrates the incredible growth of Saudi Arabia’s modern economy and the sheer scale of transformation at the heart of Riyadh city. For more glittering views, visit at night when the buildings are all lit up, then head to one of the area’s many restaurants.
Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Rd, As Sulimaniyah
Diplomatic Quarter
Popular with the city’s expat community, the Diplomatic Quarter enclave is home to Riyadh’s dozens of foreign embassies and features many a well-paved street. Meander down tree-lined avenues before exploring the area’s dizzying array of fast-food and fine-dining restaurants. Or head towards the sprawling Tuwaiq Palace, a function centre and cultural venue that will soon be converted into a luxury hotel. The Diplomatic Quarter is one of the greenest parts of Riyadh, and a wide range of sporting facilities mean more active explorers can get their pulses racing without venturing too far.
Diplomatic Quarter, Al Safarat, rcrc.gov.sa.
Edge of the World
Just 90 minutes’ drive from the city you’ll find Edge of the World – Saudi Arabia’s answer to the Grand Canyon. The rugged desert landscape quickly turns into rolling dunes as far as the eye can see, making for ideal hiking terrain. Pack your hiking boots and park up for a craggy half-hour climb to the clifftop, where you can survey the former riverbeds in which camels still wander. Be sure to pack plenty of water and visit on a cooler day, or even better join an organised tour – temperatures can climb extremely quickly in the desert.
Edge of the World, north-west of Riyadh.
King Abdullah Park
This urban oasis in the south of the city has a two-kilometre pathway lit up into the late hours of the evening which is popular with runners and walkers. There’s also plenty of green space, water and beautifully maintained flower displays to gaze at – and a dancing fountain show which runs at regular intervals throughout the evening. Taking the family along for a day out? The kids can work off their energy by whizzing down the slides in the on-site play areas.
Open daily 4.30pm-12.30am. SAR10 per person. Al Ameen Abdullah Al Ali Al Nuaim St, Al Malaz.
Salam Park
With its carefully manicured lawns full of lush greenery curving around a giant lake, Salam Park is a serene oasis in the centre of busy Riyadh. After completing the covered walking track around the edge of the grass, check out some of the sports fields or the boating area on the giant lake – just be sure to steer clear of the giant fountain centrepiece which blasts jets of water 40 metres into the air. Forgot any essential supplies? The on-site snack centre will keep you topped up.
Open Mon-Sat 3pm-midnight. SAR5.25 per person. Al Dirah.
U Walk
One for the lazier walkers among us, U Walk is a 900-metre open plaza of restaurants and boutique stores running along Prince Turki Al-Awal Street near Riyadh’s University district. Stroll all the way along while deciding where to eat and you’ve almost gone a full kilometre – a solid excuse to treat yourself to lunch or dinner at popular spots like Nusr-Et, Khanin and Hoka. After refuelling, check out some of the other facilities including a huge Muvi cinema, men and women’s gyms, a hair salon and the many merchants lining the plaza.
Open Sat-Thu 9am-11.30pm, Fri 1pm-11.30pm. U Walk, Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Rd, arabiancentres.com (9200 00262).
Wadi Hanifa
The rugged rocks of this man-made oasis go on for 120 kilometres – the main spot is just to the east of Riyadh’s As Suwaidi – and are a great spot for hiking. One side of the wadi is lined with a thick wall of palm trees and there are acres of beautifully landscaped gardens for visitors to explore. Just off the main walking track, you’ll find curved bench areas built from stone and designated barbecue spots.
Open daily. Dirab Road, As Suwaidi.
