What is the Capital of Saudi Arabia? Riyadh

Capital City of Saudi Arabia: Riyadh

City Overview

Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is the largest city in the kingdom and serves as its political, economic, and administrative center. Situated in the central region of the Arabian Peninsula, Riyadh is a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity. The city has grown rapidly over the past few decades, transitioning from a small desert settlement into a sprawling metropolis that houses over 7 million people. See Directoryaah for other major cities in Saudi Arabia.

Historically, Riyadh has played a significant role in the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The city was chosen as the capital by King Abdulaziz Al Saud in 1932, and since then, it has been the heart of the nation’s political and cultural affairs. Riyadh is located on the Najd Plateau, an arid region that gives the city its distinct desert atmosphere. However, it is home to vast economic projects, including oil industry centers, modern skyscrapers, and international business hubs.

City Facts

• Area: 1,973 km² (761 square miles). Riyadh is one of the largest cities in the Middle East.
• Population: Approximately 7.7 million people (2023 estimate).
• Time Zone: Arabian Standard Time (AST), UTC +3 (no daylight saving time).
• Highest Mountain: Jabal al-Tuwaiq (also known as Tuwaiq Mountain), which rises to about 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) in height. This mountain range is an important geographical feature near Riyadh.
• Longest River: Saudi Arabia does not have rivers, but the country has several wadis (dry riverbeds), with Wadi Hanifah being the most notable one in Riyadh.

Major Landmarks in Riyadh

1. Kingdom Centre Tower: This iconic Kingdom Centre Tower is one of the tallest buildings in Riyadh, standing at 302 meters (991 feet). It features a unique “bent” shape, a sky bridge at the top, and a mall at its base, making it a focal point of modern Riyadh.
2. Al-Masmak Fortress: The Al-Masmak Fortress, located in the heart of Riyadh, is a 19th-century mud-brick fortification that holds significant historical value. It was the site of the 1902 siege by King Abdulaziz, which led to the re-conquest of Riyadh and the eventual establishment of the Saudi kingdom. Today, the fortress functions as a museum, showcasing Saudi heritage.
3. King Abdulaziz Historical Center: This center is a cultural and historical complex that includes museums, libraries, and historical buildings. It is dedicated to King Abdulaziz and his efforts in founding the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
4. National Museum of Saudi Arabia: The National Museum of Saudi Arabia offers a fascinating journey through the history of the kingdom, from ancient civilizations through to the modern-day. The museum exhibits important archaeological finds, traditional arts, and the history of Islam.
5. Al-Faisaliah Tower: Another of Riyadh’s towering skyscrapers, the Al-Faisaliah Tower stands at 267 meters (876 feet) tall. It is a key landmark in the city, famous for its distinctive glass globe at the top. The tower houses shopping malls, offices, and a luxury hotel.
6. Wadi Hanifah: This Wadi (valley) is a series of dry riverbeds running through Riyadh, which have been transformed into a green public park and recreation area. Wadi Hanifah is known for its beautiful landscapes, walking trails, and picnic spots.
7. Diriyah: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Diriyah was the original seat of the Saudi dynasty. The historical district is home to the At-Turaif district, where mud-brick houses and historical structures date back to the 18th century, providing insight into Saudi Arabia’s early history.
8. Riyadh Zoo: The Riyadh Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the Middle East, housing hundreds of animal species. The zoo is a family-friendly attraction and features lush greenery, making it a popular escape from the city’s hustle.
9. King Fahd Fountain: This is the world’s tallest fountain, located in the city of Jeddah, but Riyadh residents often visit it during trips. It can shoot water as high as 312 meters (1,024 feet) into the air.
10. Souq Al-Thumairi: One of Riyadh’s oldest markets, Souq Al-Thumairi is a traditional Arabian market selling everything from spices and perfumes to jewelry and textiles. It provides a sensory experience with the smells, sounds, and vibrant colors of local culture.

Climate Overview

Riyadh has an arid desert climate characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and very little annual rainfall. The city experiences extreme temperature fluctuations due to its location in the heart of the desert. Summers are scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 45°C (113°F), while winter temperatures can drop to as low as 5°C (41°F) at night.

Climate Data for Riyadh

Month	Avg Temperature (°C)	Precipitation (mm)	Sunny Days
January	14	15	24
February	16	10	25
March	20	10	27
April	26	3	28
May	31	0	30
June	36	0	30
July	40	0	31
August	40	0	31
September	36	0	30
October	28	5	28
November	22	10	26
December	16	15	25

Other Cities as Capital in the History of Saudi Arabia

1. Diriyah (1727–1818): Before Riyadh became the capital in 1932, Diriyah, located on the outskirts of Riyadh, was the original capital of the Saudi dynasty in the 18th century. It was the first seat of the First Saudi State before it was destroyed by the Ottoman Empire.
2. Mecca (during certain periods): Mecca, while never officially the capital of Saudi Arabia, has served as a central religious and cultural city. During the time of the Hashemite Kingdom of Hejaz, Mecca was a prominent city under the leadership of Sharif Hussein.

Country Facts

• Country Name: Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
• Capital: Riyadh
• Population: Approximately 35 million people (2023 estimate)
• Area: 2,150,000 km² (830,000 square miles)
• Largest City: Riyadh (also the capital)
• Currency: Saudi Riyal (SAR)
• Official Language: Arabic
• ISO Country Codes: SA (Alpha-2), SAU (Alpha-3), 682 (Numeric)
• Government: Absolute Monarchy under King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud
• Independence: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded in 1932 by King Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Riyadh stands as a symbol of modern Saudi Arabia, where the rapid urbanization and economic development driven by the country’s oil wealth have transformed the city into one of the most important financial hubs in the Middle East. The city’s architecture combines the old with the new, from ancient fortresses to towering skyscrapers, while its rich cultural landmarks provide insight into Saudi Arabia’s deep-rooted history. As the capital and largest city, Riyadh remains the political and economic heart of the nation and an important player on the global stage.