Riyadh Expat Guide: Shopping and Dining Scene
Riyadh Expat Guide: Shopping and Dining Scene
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s bustling capital, offers a rich blend of traditional customs and modern luxuries. Check out the pretty amazing Shopping and Dining Scene in the city with Living in Saudi. Living in Saudi is your number one expat guide to the city.
From the heart of the city to the outskirts, there’s a lot to explore. Two of the favorite activities for anyone residing in Riyadh are shopping and dining, each presenting a unique blend of local and international flavors. Here, we’ll provide a glimpse into the shopping and dining scene of this vibrant city.
Unleashing the Shopaholic in You
Riyadh is a haven for shopaholics with its blend of traditional souks and high-end malls.
Souk Al-Thumairi:
At the heart of old Riyadh, you’ll find the Souk Al-Thumairi. This traditional Arabian market offers an authentic shopping experience, where you can find various items like intricate handicrafts, precious jewelry, aromatic incense, and exquisite rugs.
Walking through its narrow alleyways is like stepping back in time, providing a sharp contrast to the city’s modern side. The souk also offers a fantastic opportunity to practice your haggling skills and get souvenirs for your loved ones at home.
Upscale Malls:
If you’re looking for a more modern shopping experience, Riyadh’s business district houses numerous upscale malls offering high-end luxury brands such as Gucci, D&G, and Versace. One such example is Kingdom Centre, a towering skyscraper featuring a three-level shopping center.
Besides the luxurious shopping experience, these malls also offer various leisure activities, making them perfect for a family day out. Kingdom Mall even features a ladies’ floor, where women can take a respite from the abaya.
Relishing Riyadh’s Culinary Delights
While alcohol is prohibited in Saudi Arabia, the dining scene in Riyadh is as diverse as it is delicious.
Riyadh boasts a variety of international cuisine options that cater to a global palate. From the rich flavors of Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines to the refined tastes of Italian and Japanese specialties, there’s something for every foodie in this city.
Get ready to embrace the concept of “Saudi champagne”, a popular non-alcoholic beverage. This refreshing drink is a mix of apple juice, lemon soda, and sparkling water, often served with meals.
When dining out, it’s essential to remember that many places have separate sections for families and single men. As an expat woman, you should always enter through the “family section”. This rule applies to both restaurants and shops.
Regardless of these cultural differences, expats will find that Riyadh offers a culinary journey that is as rich and varied as its history and culture. Each meal presents an opportunity to explore new flavors and traditional delicacies.
From traditional markets and luxury malls to international restaurants and local eateries, Riyadh offers an abundance of shopping and dining options. As an expat, you’ll have the unique opportunity to explore this rich diversity, adding another layer to your cultural immersion in this dynamic city.
