Riyadh City Getaways

Outside Riyadh is the historic area of Diriya, the capital of the first Saudi state dating from the 18th century. This area has also been restored and hosts the annual cultural festival called the 'Janadriyah'. It is organised by the National Guard and takes place at a special site 45km outside Riyadh. It includes traditional dancing, camel races, lectures and poetry reading, as well as traditional arts and crafts shows. It normally lasts about two weeks and is celebrated in winter when the weather is cooler, usually in February.

Dir’aiyah, about 30 km away from Al-Bathaa, is on the northern outskirts of the city. It is one of the most accessible archaeological sites (no permits required) in Saudi Arabia. The ruins of the first capital of the Al-Saud (the ruling) clan lie here. The site is open Saturday to Thursday, from 7 am to 6 pm and Friday from 1 pm to 6 pm. Admission is free.