How to Plan a Trip to Riyadh
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Saudi Arabia needs.
Your 4-step Riyadh plan
Step 1 — Book flights to RUH
King Khalid Airport (RUH) is the main gateway to Riyadh. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to RUHStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Diriyah (At-Turaif UNESCO site) for the best first-time visit — Mud-brick ruins of the first Saudi capital — a UNESCO World Heritage site dramatically lit at night.
Where to stay in RiyadhStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Diriyah (At-Turaif UNESCO site), then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Riyadh.
Things to do in RiyadhStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Riyadh Metro (Green Line) is SAR 4–8 ($1–2) and takes 35 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
RUH arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Saudi Arabia now issues tourist e-Visas for 50+ nationalities online at visa.visitsaudi.com (SAR 300, multi-entry). GCC and many Arab nationals visa-free.