Middle East > Saudi Arabia > Riyadh: Weather, Climate and Travel Guide

Capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is built on a plateau of the Arabian peninsula, and almost five million inhabitants. Its desert-like climate makes it of temperatures reaching 45 ° C during the dry season, which lasts from June to September, and winter sand storms, with rare rains. The city is served by an international airport, and travelers can come and admire different sites such as: the Old City and its palaces; the Masmak fortress built in the 19th century; several museums, especially that of antiquity and folklore; mosques with beautiful architecture; Batha souk, where to buy local products, and Souk al-Thumairi for crafts, silver jewelry, weavings, carpets or pottery. For a panoramic view of the city, climb to the top of the Burj Al Mamlakah, which also includes a restaurant on the 77th floor! Your travels around the city will ideally taxi, or by renting a car (note the conduct of women is illegal). It is however important to note that tourist visas are not issued for this country, and that only businessmen can claim to get one, and the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca. However, you can have a visit visa can be requested for you by a "sponsor" who lives in this country. Moreover, prices of hotel accommodations in Riyadh are very high, and strict rules must be respected, especially for women, who must be accompanied by a male relative. All these limitations are regrettable because the cultural interest of the city, however, is undeniable.