Riyadh 5 Days

Meet & Greet at the airport by the Saudi Discovery team Transfer by private vehicle to your hotel – Overnight in Riyadh.

Breakfast at hotel, we proceed into old Riyadh, starting in the downtown area, and visiting the traditional Dirah Souq (famous for buying antique carpets and other useful Saudi heritage antiques). The walk is infused with the aromas of sandalwood fragrance and other scents of the Orient. The Souq is known for men’s clothing, and it is entertaining to watch the auction which takes place every Friday. After this, we visit the Masmak Fort which is just walking distance from the Old Souq and whose importance is linked to the creation of the 3rd Saudi Kingdom, the modern one we live in. The fortified palace was built during the reign of Abdullah bin Rashid in the year 1895 A.D. to serve as a military garrison for the army of Abdullah bin Rashid. His Majesty King Abdulaziz, the father of the today’s nation, captured the fort in 1902, marking the beginning of the reconquest of Arabia by the House of saudi.

Breakfast at the hotel, we reach the traditional village of Ushaiqer after a two-hour drive. One of the most vibrant examples of Najdi architecture, Ushaiqer is typical of the central plateau of Saudi Arabia. Ushaiqer is one of the oldest towns, existing for “over a millennium” and it was a major stopping point for pilgrims coming from territories that are now Kuwait and Iraq to perform Hajj or Umrah in Makkah. We get the opportunity to roam its narrow alleyways that run between elegant traditional houses, palaces, and old mosques. Visit to Qasab Salt Flats on the Way Back to Riyadh Located in the Qassim Region of Saudi Arabia, Al Qasab Salt Flats is a unique natural wonder renowned for its pristine salt production. For centuries, this area has been a vital source of high-quality salt, earning it the reputation of producing some of the purest salt in the world.

Breakfast at hotel, we drive for 30 minutes to Ad-Diriyah, located on the western bank of the Wadi Hanifah, a dry riverbed where water flows only after big rains. Ad-Diriyah used to be the capital of the Najd (the central plateau of the Arabian Peninsula) from the 15th century until the beginning of the 18th century. It is the birthplace of the first Saudi Kingdom and its importance in the history of the Arabian Peninsula was highlighted when it was listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, in 2010, as the most brilliant example of Najdi architecture. The history of AdDiriyah goes back thousands of years as it was on an ancient trade and pilgrimage route, acting as a meeting point for those travelling to or from Asia, Africa and Europe. As we drive towards the city will vist Buhayri, a charming oasis town known for its traditional mud-brick houses and lush date palm groves. We enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the village Then we will visit to a private museum, a hidden gem that showcased a fascinating collection of artifacts. From ancient pottery to traditional Bedouin clothing, the museum provided a unique perspective on Saudi Arabia’s cultural evolution. The knowledgeable curator guided us through the exhibits, sharing fascinating insights into the history and significance of each piece.

Breakfast at hotel. This morning you will be able to enjoy the hotel. Depending on your flight time you will be transferred to Riyadh airport for final departure.