Al Turaif and Diriyah civilisations, Saudi Arabia

Introduction to Diriyah, Saudi Arabia

In the rapidly urbanising country of Saudi Arabia, come and take a walk in the ancient home of the royal family, Al Turaif! You’ll find it in the 64-billion development project of Diriyah, on the outskirts of Riyadh, the country’s capital city. It’s multi-level traditional mud-brick style will leave you in awe!

The entrance to the ancienty site of Al Turaif, Diriyah, Saudi Arabia

The ancient site is not yet open to the public but we were privileged to have a private tour prior to its anticipated opening within a few months. With Richard Quest from CNN shooting on the same day, we knew we were in for something special! Diriyah promises to be a global tourism hotspot and with recent changes allowing greater ease in obtaining tourist visas to Saudi Arabia (mine took only 5 minutes online!), there’s no time like the present to visit. The Kingdom has recognised tourism as one of the most important sectors contributing to job-creation and it is a key focus of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Plan for half a day at Al Turaif and half a day in the connected luxury hub of Al Bujairi Park.

For more details and advice on visiting Saudi Arabia including a suggested highlights itinerary, see my post, ‘The Best of Saudi Arabia in 5 Fabulous Days‘. While you are in Riyadh, don’t miss out on visiting the jaw-dropping geological wonder of The Edge of The World!

Model replica of Al Turaif within the Visitors Centre, with the actual buildings in the background, Diriyah, Saudi Arabia

Historical Fact!
Diriyah was established as the nation’s capital under the rule of Imam Mohammed bin Saud, the founder of the first Saudi State, in the 18th century. Tribes from across the desert flocked to the city, which expanded to accommodate them. During this rule, Diriyah became one of the most important cities in Najd, due to its position on the trade routes from east to west, the military strength of the Al-Saud family, and its importance to pilgrims, granting them protection and accommodation during their journeys. Najd is one of the four distinct historical regions that comprises current day Saudia Arabia, united in 1932 by King Abdulaziz (Ibn Saud).

Diriyah

Diriyah is a 7 km² precinct that is being revamped into a mixed-use historic, culture and lifestyle destination. Eventually, it will become the Kingdom’s cultural heart, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s 300+ years of history by way of heritage and education experiences, fine-dining restaurants, retail outlets, museums, public squares, luxury hotels and galleries. It will stand as an homage to the old and the new: created in traditional mud-brick Nadji architectural style juxtaposed with modern urban developments within. Its construction has already employed over 900,000 Saudi nationals.

Al Turaif

Set amongst the backdrop of the Diriyah Oasis and within the Diriyah precinct itself, sits Al Turaif: the cradle of the first Saudi dynasty. The traditional Najdi-style mud brick structures built to withstand the harsh summer temperatures overlook the lush Wadi Hanifa, which helped the city to thrive and flourish. The ancient city has many incredible features which are set to be explained during personalised or group tours. We had a magnificent tour guide, Raneem, give us an insightful and educational tour around the preserved alleyways of Turaif. Her passion for Saudi Arabia tourism and the Diriyah site was not found wanting!

Fun Fact!
Turaif was the first capital city of Saudi Arabia, between 1744 to 1818.

A wonderful view of Diriyah can be seen atop the Al Turaif mosque

Allow some time to wander around the winding lanes, hidden rooms and immaculately preserved buildings. You’ll catch a glimpse into the lives of the previously esteemed. The jewel of Al Turaif is Salwa Palace. It was once the heart of power, an official citadel and royal residence for the kingdom’s monarchs. Additionally, you’ll pass the school for royal children, an ancient sundial, a representation of the Saudi royal family tree, restorations which depict the old mud bricks covered by new smooth mud and impressive relics in various museums. Above the mosque sits a unique vantage of Diriyah and its skyline.

Traditional Saudi Arabian swords in the Military Museum, Al Turaif

Important structures within Al Turaif, Diriyah, Saudi Arabia

Salwa Palace
Palace of Saad bin Saud
Palace of Nasser bin Saud
Diriyah Museum
Military Museum
Arabian Horse Museum
Saudi Daily Life Museum

Al Bujairi Park

Adjacent the Al Turaif historical site, is Al Bujairi Park: a development project that includes a spacious park, cafes, restaurants and an art gallery. This recreational attraction is set to become a popular international and local tourist hub, set away from the busy city of Riyadh and nestled beside steep rock formations and water creeks. It will connect to Al Turaif allowing tourists to rest their feet in luxury after a day touring the ancient buildings.

Lasting Impression of Diriyah, Saudi Arabia:
Diriyah is a beautiful and unique living memoir of the time and place from which the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s founding fathers emerged.