Riyadh is just to the left of the center of the Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia (KSA), of which it is the capital city. This city receives five million tourists annually. With figures like this, it is clear that Riyadh is a popular destination. It has been placed in the topmost fifty of the cities that are visited in the world.
Whatever attracts people to Riyadh, it is not the weather. Because of its extended hot summers, warm winters, and an average 109°F temperature, Riyadh has been categorized as a hot desert climate. Sandstorms that occur from time to time have resulted in businesses and schools having to close.
One of the top reasons for its popularity is the shopping experience that brings people to this city in the KSA. We take a look at what you can expect as a shopper in Riyadh.
Souq Al Zal and Taibah
Labyrinthine souqs are often ancient structures that were used for other purposes but nowadays they fulfill the role of a marketplace with a convoluted, meandering route and little in the way of doors or space to separate one shop from another, or the inside and outside of each vendor’s area.
Described as a set of rambling alleys having an oud scent, Souq Al Zal Souq dates back to 1901. Auctions are held daily to find new owners for antiques, rare carpets, and even ceremonial swords. Wait for the weekend auction as this is when you will have the opportunity to bid on the most precious items.
If your passion is for diamonds and gold, you should visit Taibah Souq. They also sell everything else.
Shopping Malls
Riyadh’s shopping malls are huge and have futuristic architecture. You can allocate a full day for a trip to a mall. There are many restaurants and various forms of entertainment when you need a break from shopping.
Riyadh Park Mall is a good mall to start with. It has an IMAX cinema The center of the mall is an open space surrounded by restaurants and shops and known as The Zone. Many people meet at The Zone to spend time with their friends. Others come for the magnificent architecture.
After a day at the mall, you may not feel like your legs and feet can take another step. But shopaholics can continue their spree online with an aliexpress coupon. This will provide you with great deals of up to 90% off.
Concept Stores
Concept stores abound. There is RUFF Boutique, a gorgeous grayscale building, which caters to the person with good taste in shoes, such as Nike Air Jordans and Yeezy trainers. They sell streetwear from around the globe as well as items branded with Saudi Arabian labels.
One of the gems in concept stores is housed in the Stars Avenue Mall, Rubaiyat. This boutique carries the designs of Jeddah designer Arwa Albanawi, Elie Saab, and Emporio Armani.
Shopping in Riyadh is an experience you won’t forget in a hurry, and you are sure to return from your holiday with a ton of purchases.
