Riyadh is Saudi Arabia's capital, a fast-changing desert city where the mud-brick Masmak Fortress, the National Museum, the Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge and the UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district in Diriyah sit within a short drive of each other.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Boulevard World (Riyadh Season)
Seasonal zone with country pavilions, food, rides and shows, running during Riyadh Season (from 21 October 2026). Opening hours are evening-focused.
Duration: 3–5 hours
Riyadh Zoo
One of the region's oldest zoos with animals, playgrounds and picnic areas; best visited in the cooler months.
Duration: 2–3 hours
National Museum of Saudi Arabia
Air-conditioned museum with galleries on Arabian history, the Kingdom's formation and Islam, beside the King Abdulaziz Historical Centre.
Duration: 2–3 hours
At-Turaif District, Diriyah (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Restored mud-brick Najdi capital of the first Saudi state, with museums and wide paths; Al Bujairi Terraces next door has family cafes. Best in cooler months and at dusk.
Duration: 2–3 hours
Kids Museum (indoor play and learning venues) and mall play areas
Riyadh has indoor children's play and science venues inside malls such as Riyadh Park and Panorama Mall, useful in midday heat. Confirm the current venues and hours before visiting.
Duration: 2 hours
King Abdullah Park
Large park with fountains, playgrounds and shaded lawns, popular for evening family outings.
Duration: 1–3 hours
Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge
Observation deck on the 99th floor of Kingdom Centre with city views, plus the Kingdom Mall below.
Duration: 1–2 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
A palace-style luxury hotel in the Diplomatic Quarter area with large gardens and pools. Rates are indicative and change by season; check current rates before booking.
Family features: Family rooms and suites; check current kids' facilities
Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre
A luxury hotel inside Kingdom Centre on Olaya Street with an indoor pool, near malls and the Sky Bridge. Rates are indicative and change by season; check current rates before booking.
Family features: Family rooms and connecting rooms; check the current room configuration
Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya
A central Olaya hotel near malls and restaurants, with a pool and family-suite options. Rates are indicative and change by season; check current rates before booking.
Family features: Family rooms; check the current room configuration
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Saudi and Lebanese restaurants welcome children; kabsa, shawarma, hummus and grilled chicken are easy options.
Malls such as Riyadh Park, Panorama Mall and Kingdom Mall have food courts with kids' menus.
Some restaurants still have a 'family section'; ask for a high chair on arrival.
Restaurants are busiest after 20:00 and during Riyadh Season; book ahead for dinner.
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening from May to October; indoor malls and museums are best midday.
Strollers work well in malls and at Al Bujairi; pavements elsewhere are limited.
App taxis carry few child seats; bring one or arrange a rental car with a seat.
Children aged 6 and under ride the Metro free with an adult; First Class carriages are roomier for families.
Check current government advice and airport status before bringing children, given the 2026 regional security situation.