After the top photo spots in Riyadh? A city full of lights, gleaming modern skyscrapers and traditional heritage sights standing side-by-side, Riyadh is something of a photographer’s dream.
When you’re out and about, remember to follow the general rules for photography in Saudi Arabia. Don’t take pictures of government or security facilities, and always ask permission if you want to take a picture of another person on the street (or inside someone’s market stall or store).
If in doubt, stick to the popular tourist spots – there’s plenty to keep you snapping away all day.
Here are the best places to take photos in and around Riyadh. Tag @timeoutriyadh on Instagram and we’ll feature the best shots on our feed.
Edge of the World
The Edge of the World – a 90-minute drive from the city centre – is 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 (and photography) terrain. Pack your hiking boots, empty that memory card and park up for a craggy half-hour climb to the clifftop, where you can take stunning shots of 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.
Olaya
Capture the essence of modern Riyadh by lining up a snap of the iconic Kingdom Tower – designed by the world-renowned architect Norman Foster – and the Al Faisaliah Hotel with its suspended glass orb (see further down this list for details of how to get inside for the ultimate view of the city skyline). 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
Souq-al-Zal
Not only is Souq-al-Zal the oldest and biggest antique marketplace in Riyadh, but the eclectic selection of perfumes, handmade leather slippers and traditional artefacts make for a colourful picture. After using your best negotiation skills to bag a bargain, ask politely and most shopkeepers will be happy to let you snap away. Looking for artistic inspiration? Check out the beautifully designed handwoven carpets from Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kashmir and Afghanistan.
Open daily. Ad Diriyah.
The Globe
There’s no better place to glimpse the bright lights of the city at night than from inside the giant glass dome suspended at the top of the Al Faisaliah Tower. On a clear night you can see for miles around, including the iconic Kingdom Centre Tower and the villa-lined streets of the neighbouring Al Mathar Ash Shamali district. Remember that The Globe is ultimately one of Riyadh’s top restaurants – avoid bringing any bulky cameras or tripods if you can, and keep the snapping to a minimum so you don’t disturb other diners.
Open Sun-Thu 7pm-11.30pm, Fri and Sat 3pm-6pm and 8pm-11.30pm. Al Faisaliah Tower, King Fahd Branch Rd, Olaya, mandarinoriental.com (011 273 2222).
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.
