In the name of Allah the merciful, the compassionate

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques

King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

Crown Prince Deputy Crown Prince

Mohammed bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz
Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior Second Deputy Premier and Minister of Defense
4
 Riyadh City reflects, God grace, its real and pioneering role, as the capital of
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). It's the main hub of all national and sovereign
activities of the country, the incubator of various government, regional, Islamic and
international institutions and bodies, in addition to being the nationally leading
center for ministries, departments and administrative, cultural, scientific and
economic organizations, as well as diplomatic missions, UN and UN agencies.
The city enjoys a unique strategic site, in the middle of the vast regions of the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which, for its part, occupies a middle house, among the
universe continents, namely Asia, Africa and Europe.
Furthermore, Riyadh plays host to a very youthful composition of population,
as youth groups constitute its main component. It has also a very strong appeal to
investors, due to the hugely big public spending on the infrastructure, solid financial
potentials, robust and flourishing markets, advance structures and sophisticated
systems, safe and stable environment.
Moreover, the city features a great deal of well-established and qualified
human resources, along commercial, industrial, agricultural, communications,
transportation and other vital services and utilities.
Having a wide, abundant and diversified natural resources, on one hand, and
taking advantage of all through decades of taking care and development, launching
of a series of great, public and private, projects and enterprises, at all sectors and parts
of the city, the kept scoring quantum leaps, in all aspects and fields of life. That fact,
has managed to transform Riyadh into the preferred destination for ambitious and
pioneer entrepreneurs and contributed to crown it as the best terminal for serious
and successful investors, seeking golden opportunities, in their long quest.
This book, is no more than a humble contribution to, only, depict some pictures
of several scenes, to stand witness of different aspects and dimensions of the daily
life, in Riyadh City, and to present a panoramic scenery of a multi-faceted, vivid and
rapidly growing community.

Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz

Chairman of the High Commission for the Development of Arriyadh

5
 T he aim of these pages is to give a brief glimpse of the modern
Riyadh, to show how much it has achieved over recent
decades and to give some insight into the rhythm of its daily life.
Contained between these covers is some small indication of the
tremendous potential that this city now offers.
This book tells the story of a long and distinguished history and of
the surviving landmarks of that heritage, and describes how that
unique past is being combined with a vigorous present with its
own strong identity in a fusion that provides a moral framework
and cultural inspiration for new generations.
It describes how a harsh desert environment has been transformed
into a green oasis, and how a new city of imposing and stylish
buildings has been created upon an infrastructure that is capable
of supporting a modern, technologically sophisticated economy,
ensuring wealth and well-being for both the present and the
future.
These pages present a strong, broadly-based economy that is rich
both in terms of its financial resources and in its community of
dynamic and innovative commercial enterprises.
The diversified educational resources of a highly intellectual
city are also depicted, showing how the city has become a seat of
learning that attracts students from all over the world.
The story of Riyadh is a chronicle of a unique society that with
the help of Allah has become a model of prosperity, security,
peace and happiness.

6
HONOURED PAST 8

REGENERATING HERITAGE 22

GREEN OASIS 46

MODERN ARCHITECTURE 78

EDUCATIONAL AMBIENCE 110

VIGOROUS ECONOMY 140

A PROSPEROUS LIFE 166

7
 HONOURED PAST

8
• Source: Dr. Moller

9
 R iyadh has a history which stretches far back into antiquity: ancient
monuments which date to more than 15,000 years ago have been
discovered in the suburb of al-Thumamah. Life history, tales of Arabian
kingdoms with civilizations successively established homes on the fertile
soil of al-Yamamah; poems and poetic description of locations and battles
that embodied the pre-Islamic life of the Arabs; gardens, settlements,
trade, episodes, literature that had flourished at today’s site of Riyadh.
During successive Islamic dynasties, what we now know as Riyadh and
the surrounding areas were known as al-Yamamah Region. Al-Yamamah
became famous for its agricultural abundance and provided food for many
residents of the Arabian Peninsula. In particular, Al-Yamamah was the
source of superior quality date palms from which the best species of palm • Source: Saudi Aramco
trees were propagated throughout the world. At the same time the desert
surrounding this oasis maintained it in relative isolation and played a major role in preserving its unique character.
Early towns and villages in the area included Mi’akal, al-Beneyah and Manfouhah, and over time these
merged to become the nucleus of the new town of Riyadh, which became well known during the First Saudi
State in the 17th century.
Riyadh’s boundaries and special architectural character became more defined during the Second Saudi State,
for which Riyadh served as capital. During the reigns of Imams Turki Ibn Abdulla and his son Faysal Ibn Turki,
the chief landmarks of the city were renovated – the city wall, the Government Palace (Qasr al-Hukm), the
Grand Mosque and the main residential districts. By now Riyadh was established as one of the main capitals of
the Arabian Peninsula, and a principal centre of Arabian trade, agricultural
and culture.
The golden age of the city of Riyadh began on the 5th day of Shawal
1319H (15th January 1902) with the restoration of the city by King Abdulaziz
and establishment of the Modern Saudi State. The city’s landmarks
were refurbished, and Riyadh became the seat of the Government of
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and capital of the country. Since then, the
size of the city has doubled more than a hundred times to accommodate
a burgeoning population. Today, Riyadh is one of the world’s major
decision-making capitals, and a focal point for economy and culture, but it
still maintains its links to a time-honoured past.

10
Simplicity and tolerance were characteristics of life in old Riyadh. The
shade provided by the walls of Qasr al-Hukm (Government Palace)
created space where people could gather and sit together. The open
areas served as marketplaces.
The Eastern Gate of Qasr Al-Hukm was known as Bab Abu Asheera
(Abu Asharah Gateway) with a passage leading to Safaat Square
1368H (1949) Source: Saudi Aramco.

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Surrounded by walls and green fields, the city’s architecture was consistent
in terms of design, building materials and decoration. Elements in
this architecture were conducive to preserving harmony and friendly
relationships among the people.
1. The roofs of Riyadh dwellings – 1369H (1950) - Source: Saudi Aramco.
2. The arcades and courtyard of the Grand Mosque – 1366H (1947)
Source: Al-Raihany .

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 Riyadh was the main trading centre of the surrounding townships and villages
of the Nejd region. Trade was the second source of livelihood of the inhabitants.
Like other old Islamic cities, the markets were held in the main squares and
streets surrounding the Grand Mosque and Qasr al-Hukm.
1. Souq al-Haraaj (Auction Market), the Grand Mosque with marketplaces
and surrounding shops – 1368H (1949) - Source: Saudi Aramco.
2. The north part of Souq al-Muqaibra, with the canopies of the old
slaughterhouse – 1373H (1954) - Source: Dr. Moller.

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 • Source: Dr. Moller

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The streets were more than passageways.

They served as gathering points for people
and as marketplaces where hawkers used to
display a variety of commodities, including
Islamic books.
1. Auction market east to the grand mosque
1368H (1949) - Source: Dr.Moller.
2. The south-eastern part of Souq Dkhana
1374H (1955) - Source: Life Magazine.

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The beginning of the urban architectural development during

the 1370’s H saw the construction of modern establishments
offering a wide range of services.
1. The Memorial School, built by the people of Riyadh to
celebrate the return of King Abdulaziz from a state visit to
Egypt in 1368H (1949) - Source: Saudi Aramco.
2. An early hospital in Riyadh - Source: Dr.Moller.
3. A communications tower – 1368H (1949) - Source: Life
Magazine.

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Public utilities projects, including the construction of roads, street lighting and water
supply, as well the establishment of modern Government department headquarters
were among early phases of the city’s infrastructure growth. In particular,
the introduction of motor vehicles came to play a major role in the life of many
inhabitants.
1. Qaisariyat Ibn Kulaib, or Souq Ashaiqer, opposite the niche (Mihrab) of the
Grand Mosque, separated by Ibn Suwailem Road – Mid 1380’s H (1960”s) .
2. The Old Airport Road, with some Government Ministry offices - Mid 1380’s H
(1960’s) - Source: Saudi Aramco .

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 REGENERATING HERITAGE

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 R iyadh is a city with a contemporary face that rejuvenates and gets a
facelift overnight, studded with the traces of the ancient past, rich in
languages and ethnicities from all corners of the globe set in an intimate Arabic
ambiance - a miscellany of social tastes and a contemporary urban life marked
and unified by a cultural azimuth and tranquility of behaviour.
The juxtaposition that Riyadh lives through, that is, between the ancient
and the modern, the originality and the modernity, the private and the
universal, makes it a city of heritage in a contemporary mould, redolent with
the mixed scents of originality and history.
The cornerstone to Riyadh’s authenticity is its inhabitants, for urbanism,
events and activities are nothing but assorted demonstrations and features
of an intellectual originality and upbringing. Values that colour the ethos
of the society in its engagement in contemporary business pursuits,
advancement of modern applied and theoretical sciences, the tell-tale signs of well-being and upright living which
are visible in the buildings, restaurants and activities.
These values which guided the lifestyle of the community had a great role in the sustained prosperity
of cultural and educational activities for which Riyadh was famous in the past and continue to drive
forward many of the manifestations of modern culture and thought. Despite the frenetic rhythm of life in
Riyadh, its inhabitants still find time to enjoy cultural and social events such as Janadriyah Festival and the
celebrations of Eid Al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of the month of Ramadan.
Riyadh’s heritage architecture is an embodiment of its cultural and social distinctness. The old image of Riyadh
was formed from mud houses of uniform architectural model that combines the design of the usual old Islamic
cities, surrounded by high walls topped with towers and behind the walls are surrounded by green palm groves.
To a large extent the features of this unique architectural identity have been obliterated with the onslaught
of the urbanization that Riyadh has experienced over the past decades. Some prominent monuments and
neighbourhoods in the middle of the city have survived and with the passage of time these have acquired a highly
symbolic value, in terms of their architectural, historical and sentimental value as tangible and concrete remnants
of historical Riyadh. Al–Masmak Citadel and the Government Palace (Qasr
al-Hukm) evoke the early foundation and unification stages of the Kingdom,
while Al–Murabba’ Palace and the historical structures of King Abdulaziz
Historical Centre are symbols of the Kingdom’s subsequent administrative
and urban construction stages.
The urban regeneration and development of the city’s archaeological
monuments have made them into cultural institutions that the public can
relate to, and contribute to the cultural identity of future generations. These
ancient buildings have also played a key role as a source of inspiration for
modern architects, with the result that new buildings in both the private and
public sector have design elements which clearly are drawn from the city’s
heritage architecture. In this way Riyadh is constantly regenerating and
reinforcing its own unique architectural identity and heritage.

24
The history of Riyadh is a real national epic symbolizing the genuine
meaning of heroism and ambition in a manner guaranteed to inspire
younger generations.
A group of school children visiting Hisn (Fortress) al-Massmak, focusing
upon the wicket gate in the main door, looking for the famous spear
imprint made during the battle for the recapture of Riyadh in the morning
of 5th Shawal 1319H (15th January 1902).

25
 Historical Dirriyyah was the capital of first Saudi state, and the
beacon of the reformist call that spread all over Islamic world.
The rehabilitation project of Historical Dirriyyah unveil its
patriotic importance to list it in UNSICO world heritage sites.

26
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 City programmes recounting remarkable events imply cultural dimensions.
Such re-enactments are performed through museum heritage shows and are
expressed in urban architectural development. Historical landmarks have been
renovated and converted into public places.

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The national historical landmarks of Riyadh

cover the various phases of the Saudi State’s
modern advancement. Qasr al-Hukm and
Hisn al-Massmak represent the foundation
stage of the State and the amalgamation of the
Kingdom’s regions. The Qasr al-Murabba’a,
with its traditional halls within Darat al-Malik
Abdulaziz, symbolizes the formation of the
State’s principal offices and the launch of the
urban construction development.
Left: King Abdulaziz’s Memorial Hall at Darat
al-Malik Abdulaziz.
1. Qasr Al Murabba.
2. King Abdulaziz’s summer Majlis
(Reception Hall) inside the Qasr.
2

31
 The National Museum is the most prominent
cultural establishment in the King Abdulaziz
Historical Centre, where the history of
Arabia, from the creation of the universe to
the present time, is illustrated in the light of
divine purpose, the principles of Islam and
the objectives of the Shariah, which serve
to form the values by which society is to be
governed, a healthy basis for competition
for cultural pre-eminence among nations.

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Traditional architecture is displayed in various patterns. There are traditional buildings which
have been restored to their original design, with renovations to accommodate various activities.
There are architectural landmarks decorating the various districts of the city and modern
installations established for specific functions, all of which add a moral value.
The previous page: Maidan al-Adl (Justice Square) within Qasr al- Hukm
1. Residential palaces previously existing within Qasr al- Murabba’a, King Abdulaziz
Historical Centre.
2. Wahat al-Nakheel (The Palm Trees Oasis) within the Centre, with its 100 palm trees
commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the country’s unification.
3. Part of Dkhana Gate and the old City Wall on Tariq Ibn Ziyad Road.

36
 2

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The city’s seasonal celebrations are largely dominated by
traditional displays, which are of a special sentimental value to
the inhabitants. These are reflected in traditional costumes, dances
and handicrafts. Such occasions culminate in the Janadriya
Festival, an international traditional and cultural demonstration
and an important item on the people’s annual calendar.

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The people of Riyadh have a great fondness and respect for
their city’s architectural heritage and, recognising this, private
sector developers and business firms have embraced traditional
values in marketing their products both in terms of design for
shopping malls and private houses and in business promotional
activities.

41
 International trade is a special feature of Riyadh’s economy,
and a wide variety of commodities from the East and the West
is available. However, a sense of nostalgia towards traditional
shopping and towards conventional commodities is still felt
and practiced by people. A good example is the record price of
truffles which are sold in season.

42
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Arab coffee represents the epitome of traditional hospitality and
attentive service. A quiet, open-air desert evening enhances the
savour and creates everlasting cherished memories.

45
 GREEN OASIS

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 R iyadh is set in a harsh desert environment, with scarce seasonal rains,
but this drought holds no sway in the greenery of Wadi Hanifah
Valley, with its surrounding gardens and groves. It hugs the City of Riyadh
like a bracelet and it from this image that the city derives its name.
Since ancient times, agriculture was the main occupation of the local
inhabitants and it still represents one of the pillars of the city’s modern
economy. In those days vegetation was limited to the farms that encircled
the city but today greenery lines its streets, clads its plazas and courts and
decorates its buildings.
Riyadh is blessed with its plenty of open space: Al-Thumamah Park
alone exceeds 370 square kilometres, and there are many other open areas
throughout the city and its suburbs, with gardens of various sizes and shapes
scattered throughout the conurbation.
The sheer scale of these landscaped areas brings a corresponding challenge; the harsh local environment means
that the maintenance of green areas is a tough and never-ending task. Herculean efforts are needed to maintain a
level of vegetation which might occur naturally in many other cities, and to maintain this level of greenery while
the parks are in constant use by the public only adds to the challenge.
Apart from the formal city parks, there are also natural areas of greenery, such as the evergreen Wadi Hanifah
and the Rawdhat where the plains becomes green in the rainy seasons. The contours of the area are as varied, with
knolls, larger hills, valleys, plains and plateaux. Between them they provide people with a wide range of areas in
which to take a relaxing walk.
The major public parks are characterized by dense greenery, lakes and
other water features and skillfully designed landscaping which make them a
special weekly destination for almost all city residents. They are supplemented
by neighbourhood parks that provide residents with more accessible
opportunities to enjoy green open spaces with family, friends and neighbours.
One of the most important components of the city’s environmental
programme has involved planting trees on the main thoroughfares, the major
avenues of the city and bridge and causeway ramps. They play a prominent
role in enhancing the environment of the city, minimizing traffic pollution
and beautifying the overall image of the city.
The green plazas, courtyards and areas surrounding the public buildings
also play a role in increasing the city’s green acreage. Riyadh seeks at all times
to be a lush green paradise, and every area of planting, regardless of its scale or
formality, contributes towards this overall goal.

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 Wadi Hanifa the cradle of civilization since the stone ages. The exclusive
development program retrieves its vital role in the modern life of Riyadh's
people. The valley restore its vital natural equilibrium, its normal flora , and
became the preferred destination for picnicking.

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Although the natural surroundings of Riyadh seem

inhospitable, they will with the grace of Allah spring
to life in the rainy season. At one time, Wadi Hanifah
was an artery of life. Today, the Wadi has gained in
strategic importance and become a showground for
business development with water running throughout
the year.
1. A camel pasture within an-Nafud Desert
surrounding Riyadh.
2. The Valley of Khuraym during a rainy season.
Right: The Lakes District at the southern part of
Wadi Hanifah.

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 Despite the variety of modern economic resources, agriculture is still as
important an element as it has always been. While in previous years it
was traditional in technology and limited to the banks of Wadi Hanifah,
agriculture today covers almost all cultivated areas. Apart from their
economic value, fields play an important environmental role and are a part
of the green grassy areas surrounding the city.
1,3. Palm trees in Wadi Hanifah.
2. Wheat-growing fields in Deeraab.

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3

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Al-Thumama is a name that means a lot for archaeologists. It was the site
where 15,000 year-old human artefacts were excavated. For the people of
Riyadh, though, it is the most important recreational suburb of the city
and preferred place for picnicking and relaxation.
Recreational camps erected as a part of the experimental stages for
developing the public park.

57
 An annual meeting with the scent of lavender in the air
and a refreshing breeze on an inviting green grassy
area. At the end of each rainy season, the valleys around
Riyadh become green, and people of the capital take this
opportunity for family and group outings.

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 The cultivated public squares and parks are the gardens of the city. They combine
greenery and open spaces, comprising aesthetic components and various
children’s playgrounds. They are provided with security, safety and modern
services, and are easily accessible.

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Previous page: Al Murabba’ Square at King
Abdulaziz Historic Centre and gardens of the
Centre on a weekend.

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Gardens are an essential part of the green lung of the city.
They are typical environments for positive social reaction
of inhabitants that will contribute to social stability and
tranquillity and to enhancing social solidarity links among
residents. These are essential features of value for promoting
the cultural performance of the city.
This and the previous page: Salam Park in central Riyadh.

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Another pattern of open area landscaping
within residential districts is characterized
by a semi-desert nature. A combination
of desert environment with high capacity
for sustainability, with no intensive care
requirement;
Open areas within the Diplomatic Quarter.

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The open green areas within the city’s structure

take a variety of forms. In addition to the
large public parks there are landscaped areas
associated with roadside restaurants and major
office buildings are often set within their own
landscaped grounds. There are also some local
gardens with private, restricted access.
1. The Public Zoo.
2. Open areas within King Khalid Specialist
Eye Hospital.
3. The garden of King Fahd National Library.
4. A garden in a residential district.
4

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The roads take up almost 40 percent of the city’s construction
costs. Apart from serving a large number of vehicles, they hold
the greatest part of the city’s green lung within their islands and
shoulders. They play a major role in eliminating the intensity
of pollution resulting from traffic and contribute to the overall
beautification of the city.

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Green grassy areas are irrigated through an
automated independent water network and are
supplied by surface water treatment stations, where
waste water is recycled and purified for reuse. The
underground water level reduction system under
King Fahd Highway subways consists of 1,000
wells. Surface water is pumped to the two treatment
stations after which the water is used for irrigating
the green grassy areas on the Highway’s shoulders
and service corridors, as well as for irrigating 12
gardens over the main road junction subways.

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 Pedestrian walkways are important features
of the open areas, with walking becoming a
increasingly popular form of exercise. These
walkways have already provided a return in
the form of improved fitness and health. The
appeal of the walkways lies in the quality
of construction, tree-plantings and lighting,
while security, safety and complete isolation
from traffic movement also contribute to their
popularity with pedestrians.

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 MODERN ARCHITECTURE

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 A s Riyadh expands there is a non-stop race to ensure that provision
of infrastructure and services keeps pace with its growth. Once
modern roads and infrastructure are constructed in the new areas of desert
surrounding the city, urban development follows, with all its accompanying
rich diversity of human activity.
The urban development of Riyadh is a response to its high rate of
population growth. Fortunately, the city’s economic potential and prosperity
has kept pace with the expanding population and Riyadh has been able to
avoid the housing shortages that other major cities usually suffer from.
There are some major drivers behind the city’s active urban expansion.
Most important of these are the programme for granting land plots to
citizens, the loans of the Real Estate Development Fund (REDF) and the
successive urban development programmes carried out by the Government..
The private sector is also playing an increasingly important role in urban and real estate development.
Riyadh’s urban development went through several basic phases. At the beginning the city was a coherent
collection of adobe buildings similar in construction and form, and surrounded by walls. This represented
Riyadh’s distinguishing urban character. As the city became the capital of the Kingdom, a new phase of urban
development kicked off, overspilling its walls and spreading modern buildings and new residential districts. This
phase witnessed the birth of most down-town districts with their cobweb-like fabric and adoption of a more
international architecture.
During a third phase the Government implemented urban development projects for its ministries and
government establishments, universities, medical complexes and King
Khalid International Airport. A major characteristic of this phase was that
environmental and social requirements were taken into consideration when
erecting such installations, and the high-quality and distinct urban style of
those installations soon came to reflect the city’s architectural character.
Such identity further crystallized with the implementation of major urban
development projects in the Government Palace Area, the city’s central area
and King Abdulaziz Historical Centre, as well as the implementation of the
Dir’iyyah Development Programme.
These projects helped introduce a special concept of local architecture
in Riyadh, a concept that reflects its identity and distinct character.
Importantly, however, this special architectural idiom is not at odds with
modern technical requirements, and this meant that it has been embraced
enthusiastically by the private sector also.

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The city’s general pattern of low to mid-rise
construction on extensive plots is punctuated
by business focal centres that are characterized
by tall buildings. The most important of these
business “nerve centres” is the area extending
northwardly between King Fahd and Al-Ulaya
Highways.

83
 The main roads are prominent structural components and landmarks of
the city. According to their traffic-carrying capacity and pre-planning, they
determine the pattern of adjacent construction and land use.
1. Prince Mohammed Ibn Abdulaziz Road with its wide pedestrian
walkways and modern coffee shops has become a favourite venue for
the city’s young people..
2. An-Nahdha Road is distinguished by its design in which its central
reservation is extended to separate a dual carriageway and to form a
complex of gardens, open squares and landscaped features.
3. Amr Ibn Umaya al-Dhamri Road in the Diplomatic Quarter: the palm
trees and the design of buildings on both sides symbolize the modern
architectural identity of modern Riyadh.

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 The residential complexes provided for Government staff and the executives of
leading businesses are characterized by a high standard of design, quality of
construction, availability of services and environmental considerations. They
also provide residents with opportunity for socialising.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs staff residential complex.

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Private houses form the largest portion of the city’s built
environment. They are mainly detached residential
units (villas). They reflect the desire for privacy and
through their variety of design and co-ordination
contribute to the overall architectural picture of
Riyadh as a spread-out city, designed to work in a
difficult environment.

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The modern headquarters of the Government’s ministries head the

list of the city’s architectural landmarks. The varying architectural
layouts and designs reflect the independent functional identity of each
establishment, adding an element of diversity to the city’s luxurious
and modern attractions.
1. The headquarters of the Ministry of the Interior.
2. The headquarters of the Ministry of Petroleum & Mineral
Resources.

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The architectural planning of the city’s landmarks

and selection of their locations enhances the overall
city and its neighbourhoods. The aesthetics of the
buildings are impressive and the sense of solidity
and stature that they create helps to encourage a
sense of national and regional pride.
1. The Ministry of Municipality & Rural Affairs
2. The Riyadh Gateway seen when coming from
the Airport.
3. The King Fahd National Library .
4. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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The design of each Government office and commercial
building varies according to its function, but they do all
share a high quality of construction and pleasing design.
From right: The main lobby of King Saud University;
King Khalid Specialist Eye Hospital.

95
 No voice takes precedence over that of
the call to prayer. During prayer time, all
other activities throughout the city come to
a standstill. The mosques are close to the
hearts of all residents – young and old, men
and women, and it is no wonder that mosques
are the city’s most important educational
centres. The architectural design and the
large number of mosques reflect their extreme
spiritual value. The mosques are the common
denominator among all parts of the city,
whether functional, administrative, service,
business or residential. Wherever there are
people, there is a mosque.

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 From the absolutely uniform traditional adobe buildings of the old city
to the wide variety of internationally inspired modern buildings with
their state-of-the-art construction technologies; the city displays an
architectural diversity which works well in its unique zoning structure,
and demonstrates its ability and willingness to adapt to new influences.
The headquarters of the General Secretariat of the Gulf Co-operation
Council (GCC), Headquarters of some embassies.

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The city’s unique architectural culture is evident in
upmarket real estate projects which show the strength of
the real estate sector and confirm the underlying vigour of
the city’s economy.

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Riyadh is an open museum of high technological and
sophisticated architecture, including multi-cultural
and multi-standard architecture.
Apart from thousands of traditional buildings, Riyadh
has fine modern buildings with local traditional
features, drawing on the city’s heritage and traditions
while meeting the modern building code requirements
and standards of comfort.
The previous page: Al-Kindi Square and Tuwaiq
Palace in the Diplomatic Quarter.

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Environmental architecture: utilization of available materials to innovate

a structure that will serve the people and respect the place; these are
modern architectural structures taking into consideration such important
factors as sustainability, rationalization of resources, energy preservation,
environmental development and considerations of personal privacy.
1. Shaikh Mohammed Ibn Abdulwahab Mosque in the historical town of
Dir’iyyah.
2. Al-Medi Mosque at King Abdulaziz Historical Centre in which
compressed sand brick technology was used.

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Architectural identity began to emerge through a number of modern
public buildings which have proved their high worth and aesthetic
value. They have become a pattern guiding private construction to
create various modern forms. They well suit the place and reflect the
people’s culture, regardless of shape and composition.

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 EDUCATIONAL AMBIENCE

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 T he rhythm of life in Riyadh is regulated by the academic calendar.
It is neither the warm or cold weather that sets the pace, nor the
ordinary calendar year with its months and crescents that is pre-eminent.
Nor is it the patterns of trade and commerce in the city’s marketplaces, or
the celebrations of the major religious holidays, despite their importance.
None of these have control over the life of the city in the manner that the
academic schedule does. Riyadh is always in one of two seasons: academic
year or holidays!
Every activity of the city is regulated with reference to the academic
terms and holidays. Business picks up at the beginning of the academic year
while the tourism sector has its peak period of bookings towards the end of
the academic year. Festivals and other activities take place during holidays;
even social occasions, such as weddings and family re-unions have no
alternative but to respect the schedule of the academic year.
This domination of the educational sector over other spheres of life is due to the fact that more than half of the
city’s population are below 15 years of age and are participating in the education system. The young people of the
city attend educational establishments of a wide variety at every level, and this wealth of educational facilities is
another major factor, in some cases the main factor, in attracting new residents to Riyadh.
In the early days, education was provided by Quran teachers for children and through tutorials for adults.
Though limited, this old method of education produced most of today’s leaders of the various public and private
schools and colleges. Then, as now, Riyadh was a leading centre of education, attracting students from afar.
The beginning of a more formal provision of education in the early 1950’s was the most important milestone
in the city’s educational development. Education was made available for boys and girls, and programmes for
the eradication of adult illiteracy were initiated. Higher education establishments, colleges and universities
gradually followed.
The wealth of higher education facilities in Riyadh is one of the city’s special features. A complete picture of
education shows universities, an applied science city, modern civil and
military colleges, tens of institutes, technical and vocational training schools
and, of course, primary and secondary education schools. Education is the
main sector of the city after administration and commerce.
Diversified education was the foundation for, among other things,
enhancing the city’s health services that are provided through world-
class medical centres. Higher education and medical care both contribute
significantly towards the overall performance of Riyadh as a city and towards
its economic growth and its appeal to visitors from other cities.
The abundance of scientific institutions has generated a variety of
activities as well as religious and cultural education. There are tens of
newspapers and specialized periodicals published in Riyadh, and hundreds of
Shariah seminars are regularly held. Throughout the year, seminars, lectures
and conferences are organized to address various aspects of knowledge.
Riyadh retains an educational ambience all day long.

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 Education is one of the greatest gifts granted by Allah to
the country. Many of the city’s children have available
from a tender age a model educational environment,
combining quality of facilities, integration of resources,
strong curricula and competent teaching staff.

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Play is an important means of learning, especially in
childhood and youth. Cultural traditions concerning the
education of children advises: “Play with them for seven
years, educate them for seven years and accompany them
for seven years”. In modern times, it is said: “A sound
mind in a sound body”.

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 Children with special needs have their own special educational
facilities, which cover needs such as academic learning, vocational
training and personal upbringing. These citizens must have the
opportunity to contribute to the welfare of the country and to earn
respect for themselves in the future city of Riyadh. These facilities
are financed by benefactors and philanthropists.

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The beginning and end of the school day are times of
peak time activity and regulators of the rhythm of life
in the city. As the day gets under way, hundreds of
thousands of students from the various parts of the city
make their way to their schools. With the quitting bell,
students return home and then can enjoy the different
range of activities available in the evening.

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With the large number of students graduating from the Saudi
educational system, the unique Saudi experiment in providing
independent regular education for boys and girls has proved
to be extremely successful overcoming many educational
setbacks and barriers. It has proved to be flexible and capable
of adopting new developments in education.

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Excellent educational programmes in terms of reliable resources
and an expansion in the inculcation of religious beliefs, cultural
precepts and behavioural education, form a real foundation for
shaping the upright individual and serve as a rational safety
valve for society’s youth and as a paramount motivating force
for the nation to progress and develop.

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 Teaching aids, such as laboratories, libraries and multimedia, are
important elements of modern education in schools, institutes and
colleges, and remain the best learning support. An old Arab proverb
says that “the best lifetime companion is a book”.

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Education goes beyond schools and homes.
It is also received through other educational
establishments in the city, including museums
and libraries. However, the most important
informal educational establishments are the
mosques, in view of their educational value and
due to the privilege of learning and reciting the
Glorious Quran after Asr (afternoon) prayers,
where tutorials are held in almost all mosques.

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 Observational, experimental and discovery learning, as
well as out-of-school reading are approaches adopted
by non-scholastic educational establishments, such as
public libraries, museums and scientific centres.
The Scientific Oasis at the Diplomatic Area, and King
Abdulaziz Public Library.

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The King Saud University and Imam Mohammed Ibn Saud
Islamic University are the largest educational establishments
in Riyadh. They stand as models for modern, highly-equipped
universities. They offer a range of sophisticated scientific
disciplines and are attended by students from Riyadh,
other parts of Saudi Arabia and also from various parts
of the Islamic World. Additionally, the campuses of these
universities form an important part of the city’s development.

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Higher education establishments are not limited to universities,

autonomous colleges of technology, military sciences and
or the many institutes and academies. There is an integrated
‘city’ within Riyadh for research and technologies, as well as
specialized scientific research centres independent of educational
establishments.
Previous page: Cadets of a military academy.
1. King Faysal Specialized Hospital Research Centre.
2. King Abdulaziz City for Science & Technology.

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 Riyadh’s specialist hospitals are well known for
their high standards of care and also serve as
active medical research centres. They are also
recognized as providers of scientific programmes
of medical studies. With their exclusivity and variety
of services, they form a sector of considerable
economic potential.

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 VIGOROUS ECONOMY

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 R iyadh is a flourishing global financial and business centre fed by
huge financial resources, supported by a continuously developing
and expanding infrastructure, and directed by highly qualified managers
from around the world. This economic prosperity provides employment
opportunities commensurate with the growth of the city’s population and
ensures a high standard of living and quality of life. It has made Riyadh an
attractive destination for investment.
In earlier times the strategic location of the city stemmed from its
surrounding farmland which yielded crops that were not only surplus to
the needs of its own inhabitants but also sufficient to meet the demand for
wheat from other population centres throughout the Arabian Peninsula.
Since it has become the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,
Riyadh’s strategic nature has changed. The political status of the
Kingdom has transformed the city of Riyadh into a global centre for political activities. As a capital, the
city has to accommodate Government ministries and the civil service, and this in turn created the need
for new housing the whole range of services needed by a modern population and the development of a
sophisticated urban infrastructure. In gearing up to discharge its political and administrative functions, the
city underwent an economic transformation.
As the city’s economy prospered it attracted increasing numbers of highly qualified new residents, and with
the skills brought in by these newcomers the scope of business expanded beyond agriculture to include local and
international trade, modern industries and increasingly sophisticated services. The economic transformation of
Riyadh, in turn, has played a significant role in changing the cultural face of the city.
Economic prosperity led to a confident, flourishing society, and to the requirement for well-educated specialists
to occupy newly emerged positions. It resulted in a greatly increased emphasis on education and within a few decades,
illiteracy among the city’s inhabitants was eradicated and new technical skills were acquired by natives of Riyadh.
The public sector continues to be the most important component of the Kingdom’s economy and
absorbs the majority part of qualified nationals in the workforce. This
class forms the mainstay of the city’s various activities, which include
Government development projects, and are principal supporters of
the city’s business and industrial sectors, along with the Government
and other agencies which finance business, agricultural and industrial
activities and develop human resources.
The demand for quality in the labour market has attracted qualified
manpower from within and outside the country. More than one third
of the workforce in the city is made up of highly qualified professionals,
and there are also thousands of academics in educational disciplines
such as engineering and natural, technological sciences, the humanities
and Shariah Law. The internal migration of Saudi nationals to Riyadh
from other regions of the Kingdom is chiefly attributable to the excellent
employment opportunities which the city offers.
The most outstanding feature of the city’s economy is the ability to host
the various modern economic activities and the strength of human and
financial resources that ensure the vigorous economy of Riyadh.

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 Public transport project is the latest and the most ambitious strategical project of the city.
It covers all city fabric, with the most sophisticated integrated public transport facilities,
that include subway electric auto - trains. Above its transport privileges it works as an
economy leavers, and environment protection effective measure.

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Human resources are the most valuable assets of the
city’s economy, and the city is fortunate to have a large
pool of workers qualified to work across a wide range
of occupations and vocations. More than one-third
of the workforce have specialized qualifications. The
Government sector absorbs the elite in managerial and
specialized technical positions. The private sector also
provides employment for managers and technicians, as
well as for the majority of manual labourers.

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Much of the commercial activity of the city is concentrated

along the main roads. They are bustling throughout the day
and night. There is the old, with an increasing importance and
accentuated economic value, and the modern, which absorbs
the latest in the world of trade.
1. Al-Ulaya Road.
2. Al-Batha Road.

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 The large number of shopping malls is an indicator of the
city’s strong economy, and they do much to attract visitors
from outside Riyadh. The common denominators of these
shopping centres are their huge scale, luxurious finish,
attractive design, wide variety of goods and excellent
levels of service. Shopping in these malls is an enjoyable
experience and an outing for all members of the family.

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 Riyadh is a year-round display of every type of product
from all over the world. The city’s reputation as a
shopping centre has attracted suppliers from every
corner of the world, and shoppers are presented with a
dazzling array of enticing goods. The special features
of the city’s retail sector include the quality of display,
innovative promotional ideas, inviting ambience,
comfortable surroundings and the impressive services
provided for shoppers.

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 The economic strength of the city and the
activity in its markets depend on an efficient
infrastructure, which continues to grow
in proportion to the city’s expansion and
economic performance. The landmarks
of such infrastructure are reflected in
transportation and telecommunications, as
well as in a modern international airport
and in a major railway terminal.

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 Business flourishes throughout the year, with shopping
festivals organized according to seasons. These include the
back-to-school sales and special shopping events associated
with Ramadan, Eid Al-Fitr (end of Ramadan) and the
summer holidays.
Right: An open market held in Qasr al-Hukm squares.

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Quality of life is conspicuously expressed throughout the city in
architecture, and experienced by international diplomatic missions
and by local communities, some of which have inhabited Riyadh
for successive decades, in restaurants and in other food outlets.
Riyadh offers excellent Arab, Asian and European kitchens. Their
highly favoured dishes are reflected not only in the quality of
savoury food but also in the appealing eating environments and
mode of service.

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Despite the competition that they face from the city’s new
breed of luxurious shopping malls, traditional local Souqs
continue to flourish and have become one of Riyadh’s
tourist attractions.
The previous page: Traditional market in the city centre.

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 A PROSPEROUS LIFE

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 L ife in Riyadh has two faces: one serious and solemn for the day,
burdened with business, responsibilities, crowded busy schedules,
with tight agendas and fast relentless rhythm; and another more interesting
nocturnal life with a multitude of recreations, celebrations and an intimate
ambiance - leisure time that is enjoyed by all - men and women alike, the
young and the old. This night-time environment is suffused with a host of
scents and flavours that emanate from all corners of the city; from the houses
and streets, parks, plazas and markets.
In earlier times life was lived within the constraints of the available hours
of daylight. At first light people would pick their way to their farms and
marketplaces and then, with the sunset, life in Riyadh would settle down
with it. Markets closed down, the streets and alleys grew empty. Today,
by contrast, as the sun sinks below the horizon, another version of Riyadh
awakens, characterized by its own unique businesses and social, cultural and recreational activities. The result is
that some parts of the city are more active and vibrant during the evening than in daylight hours.
The outward manifestations of daily life in Riyadh are a reflection of the needs of the city residents, of their
values and traditions. Moral values and religious rituals are the most important determinants of life for the city’s
residents. Prayers are an integral part of life, and at prayer time all other activities are suspended, with the result
that other activities during the day and night are scheduled around these times. Throughout the day, the week and
the year prayer time is a constant in the sense that it is the primary source of social interaction for the residents of
any neighbourhood, bringing them together time after time in a constant cycle. During Ramadan and Eid seasons,
the pattern of prayers becomes even more pervasive in the lives of the population. Prayer times are manifestations
of social fraternity, solidarity and compassion, and prayers are also an integral part of people’s most significant and
major social celebrations and gatherings.
Family and social bonds take second place. Most residents are organized in large extended families or,
alternatively, newly founded families. Family gatherings and the obligations of blood ties account for much
of an individual’s time throughout the week. The requirements of social bonds and family patterns have an
impact on the city’s service facilities, cultural centres, marketplaces and
recreational attractions. Indeed, the Saudi culture of the privacy of the
family is the most important factor in the design and management of
shopping and recreational activities.
Shopping complexes and malls are one of the most prominent features of
the city and the fastest growing of its economic sectors, and are a reflection
of the economic prosperity of Riyadh and the high disposable incomes of its
residents. The city has a veritable wealth of mega-malls and smaller shopping
centres, all of which are marked by the quality of their design and services and
diversity of goods on display.
While Saudi values, religious rituals and social structure are the chief
determinants of life in the City of Riyadh, its climate and weather set the tone
for many of its activities. Winter and the rainy season are marked by plenty
of country outings, while in clement weather the city’s plazas, courtyards
and even the pavements are thronged with residents taking their ease.

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A relaxing get-together with friends and family is the
perfect antidote to the stress and fatigue caused by the
hectic pace of the working day. An open air setting for these
informal gatherings makes them even more enjoyable and
therapeutic.

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 In the old days, streets were forums for people. Today,
modern cafes with their excellent services have become
get-together places for city residents and preferred evening
spots for young people.

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 The intellectual life of the city includes regular
lectures, seminars and cultural evenings that are
attended by enthusiastic and appreciative audiences
in well-equipped community facilities.

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 The variety of events in the city encourages people
to join in. Such events combine fascinating and
interesting attractions, enjoyment and learning.

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Riyadh’s cultural sector includes a number of fine museums,

which are home to impressive and well-presented collections.
These museums are in central locations within residential
districts for easy accessibility and offer visitors a wide range
of cultural and educational services.
1. Saqr al-Jazira Aviation Museum.
2. First and second Saudi states gallary at the National
Museum.

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Traditional culture is highly appreciated by the
people of the city and is enjoyed by young and
adults alike. These events frequently attract large
crowds of people, including spectators from the
city’s expatriate communities.
Adult interest in national traditional folklore
evokes memories of the past, and for the younger
generation such events help them to understand
their own culture in its historical context.

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Eid Al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of the fasting
month of Ramadan, is celebrated as a major annual event
in Riyadh. Eid celebrations are organized throughout the
city in Qasr al-Hukm squares. Festivities start immediately
after afternoon prayers on the first day of the Eid and
last for three days, and include traditional dancing,
competitions and special programmes for children.

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 One of the few times when Riyadh’s busy roads are quiet is when major football
matches are being played. Sport is the number one activity for the youth, and
football is pre-eminent both as a participant and as a spectator sport. This passion
for the game is well served, with two major football stadiums, modern facilities for
four premium-class clubs and tens of open air or indoor sports halls.
The previous page: King Fahd International Stadium.

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For centuries, the Nejd (Riyadh) region has been the habitat
of thoroughbred horses, from which the famous Arabian horse
breed has been propagated worldwide. The city still holds firmly
to this great heritage, with world-class stables and a number of
equestrian clubs.
King Abdulaziz Equestrian Centre.

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Public parks have been provided in key locations throughout

the city and so are easily accessible for family outings. The
well-thought-out layout and attractive design of these parks
make them popular with the city’s families, and with children
in particular.
1. The Zoo.
2. Abumkharoug Park.
3. Salam Park.

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 Children’s playgrounds are a familiar part
of the city’s landscape and are to be found at
schools, fast food restaurants, shopping malls
and of course in public parks.

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 From ancient times, a friendly relationship has developed
between the residents of the city and the sand dunes surrounding
their dwelling structures and life activities. This affection is
expressed by modern youth in various ways, including spending
enjoyable times there, employing all their available potential,
and taking unpredictable risks.

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 PROMISING FUTURE
Riyadh has been endowed with a strong infrastructure that promises an exciting future –
international eminence, competent national administration, a vigorous economy, dynamic
modern architecture, efficient public utilities and a responsive service sector. These are
all continually expanded and upgraded, regenerating natural resources, and building on a
successful development history. All urban and economic indicators point clearly towards a
promising, if challenging, future.
However, the most important ingredient of the city’s future growth lies in its inhabitants,
the future generation. Young people account for more than half of the population. They thus
represent half of the current city and the entirety of its future. Riyadh pins its hopes on its
youth, and it is for their sake that the city plans its future and continues to develop its various
urban sectors. It provides them with security and a fulfilling life and trains them in positive
attitudes and constructive leadership.
Strategic plans have been laid down to direct the city’s construction, economic and
social sectors, public utilities, service facilities and natural environment towards a future
vision, ensuring that Riyadh is fit to be the capital of the Kingdom that hosts the Two
Holy Mosques, and a leading international centre for political, cultural and historical
functions. Moreover, it should continue to be a city that responds to worthy
human aspirations and comfortable living requirements. These are reflected in an
atmosphere that ensures priority to humans, guarantees the security and safety
of residents, strengthens the social bonds and encourages the ties of solidarity
among residents. Riyadh aspires to remain a leading city in educational and health
services, a focus of knowledge, assuming a leading role in research and technologies;
to be a beautiful city with distinctive built environment that is appropriate to
the city’s social and cultural life and realistically reflects a special architectural
identity and a centre for Islamic culture and arts. It also will stand as a vigorous
financial and business competitive global centre complementing its political
and economic role at both national and regional domains; a contemporary
oasis preserving its natural world, rationalizing its resources, and investing
in technology and urban planning for a sustainable environment.
The development programmes covering all aspects in Riyadh are
designed and intended to shape the city into its future outlook. The
results are encouraging and many key goals have been achieved
already, promising a bright prospect for the future.

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PROMISING FUTURE

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 Fifty percent of the present generation and 100 per
cent of the future generation look at Ar-Riyadh entirely
optimistically and confidently. The city’s future is being
designed to serve them, and the city will count on them
second only to their reliance on Allah.

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