Hey there, and welcome to the squad! Hi, I'm Sadeem, and I'm just a curious local obsessed with my city. I started this blog, Riyadh Gems, because I kept finding these awesome spots that nobody seemed to know about. It felt selfish to keep them to myself, so here we are! Where are we going? We're skipping the same old places everyone posts on Instagram. Think cozy coffee shops tucked away in neighborhoods, street art you have to hunt for, and the best-kept secret restaurants that taste like home. We're going off the beaten path to find the real heart and soul of Riyadh. Why am I doing this? Because Riyadh is so much more than what you see on the surface. It’s full of cool surprises, amazing history, and tons of new stuff popping up all the time. This blog is for anyone who loves an adventure and wants to experience Riyadh like a true local. So, ready to explore?
Posts
Weekend Getaways from Riyadh Escaping the City: Weekend Getaways Near Riyadh While Riyadh offers a vibrant urban experience, sometimes it's nice to escape the city and explore the surrounding natural beauty. Fortunately, there are several picturesque destinations within a short driving distance from Riyadh, perfect for a weekend getaway. Let's explore some of the most popular options: 1. Al Diriyah: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Diriyah is a historic oasis located just north of Riyadh. Explore the mud-brick buildings, museums, and archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into Saudi Arabia's past. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Diriyah Gate, a modern development with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. 2. Wadi Hanifah: This picturesque valley within Riyadh itself offers a variety of outdoor activities. Hike or bike along the trails, picnic by the river, or enjoy a leisurely boat ride. Wadi Hanifah is also home to several wildlife sanctuaries, wher...
A Taste of Riyadh Savoring Riyadh : A Culinary Journey Riyadh, the bustling capital of Saudi Arabia, is a melting pot of cultures, and its cuisine reflects this diversity. From traditional Arabian dishes to international flavors, Riyadh offers a culinary adventure for food enthusiasts. In this post, we'll explore some of the must-try dishes and popular restaurants in the city. 1. Kabsa: The national dish of Saudi Arabia, kabsa is a flavorful rice dish typically made with meat (chicken, lamb, or camel), vegetables, and a blend of spices like black pepper, cloves, and saffron. Try kabsa at Al Baik, a popular Saudi fast-food chain known for its crispy fried chicken and flavorful kabsa. 2. Shawarma: A Middle Eastern street food favorite, shawarma consists of thinly sliced meat (usually lamb, chicken, or beef) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and served in pita bread with hummus, tahini, and fresh vegetables. Al Baik also offers delicious shawarma, but there are many other lo...