Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia? If you're planning to go to Riyadh, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Based on the climate and weather in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the best time to go is November. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Riyadh, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia by month

January

January in Riyadh is balmy and very dry. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 30% to 40% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you go to Riyadh in February, you will notice that it is balmy and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the low 70s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to get the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Riyadh is warm and very dry. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the right type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April can be sweltering and very dry. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you visit Riyadh during May, you might find that it is a scorcher and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 100s F (high 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 10 and 20% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you go to Riyadh in June, you will notice that it can be sizzling and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 100s F (low 40s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

If you are traveling to Riyadh in July, you will notice that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 100s F (low 40s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the correct kind. The majority of adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you are traveling to Riyadh in August, you will notice that it is a scorcher and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 100s F (low 40s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

If you visit Riyadh during September, you will probably see that it can be blisteringly hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 100s F (low 40s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 0 and 10% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

Traveling to Riyadh in October, you will notice that it is unbearably hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the necessary type. Most adapters on sale are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you visit Riyadh during November, you will probably find that it is extremely warm and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you visit Riyadh during December, you will probably see that it is mild and very dry. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Saudi Arabia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Riyadh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you see the National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, offers a blend of rich cultural heritage and modernization. The city offers a plethora of attractions that cater to the needs of every kind of traveler. From stunning architecture to delicious food, Riyadh has something for everyone. Here are the top tourist attractions in Riyadh that you need to explore.

Masmak Fortress:

Masmak Fortress, located in the heart of the old city, is the most iconic landmark in Riyadh. The fortress was built in 1865 and played a significant role in the establishment of the Saudi state. The structure has been beautifully restored and houses a museum displaying artifacts from the early years of Saudi Arabia.

National Museum:

The National Museum in Riyadh is one of the top-rated museums in the Middle East. The museum showcases the history and culture of Saudi Arabia through modern displays, interactive exhibits, and audio-visual presentations. It is an excellent opportunity to learn about the country's past and present.

Al Murabba Palace:

Al Murabba Palace is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture in Riyadh. The Palace was built in 1938 and served as the residence for King Abdul Aziz. The Palace has been restored and transformed into a museum that displays the life and legacy of King Abdul Aziz.

Kingdom Center:

Kingdom Center is an iconic skyscraper in Riyadh and is an engineering marvel. The Center is 300 meters tall and offers a panoramic view of the city. It is home to upscale shopping malls, luxurious apartments, and a range of restaurants.

Diriyah:

Diriyah is a former capital of Saudi Arabia and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city was established in the 15th century and played a significant role in the history of Saudi Arabia. The city is home to stunning architecture, including the Al-Turaif District, which has been beautifully restored and houses a museum.

Riyadh Zoo:

Riyadh Zoo is one of the top tourist attractions in Riyadh, offering a wide range of animals and birds in a natural environment. The zoo is home to more than 1,500 animals and 40 species of birds from all over the world.

Final Thoughts:

Riyadh is a city steeped in history and culture, offering a blend of modern and traditional tourist attractions. While there are many other tourist attractions in Riyadh, these are the top attractions, and they should not be missed during your visit to the city.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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