There are plenty of places to visit in Riyadh for free if you know where to look for them.
YOU HAVE ME AS YOUR GUIDE.
Honestly, there are so many places that are free in Riyadh I lost count because I visit a few of them every single week.
There is no need to spend even a single riyal when you can walk through green parks, check out amazing landmarks, and even visit a national museum
All for free!
Want to relax with your loved ones by the lake?
DONE.
Looking to see the mini version of all the world-famous sights?
EASY!
How about exploring some history and peaking into the past?
YOU HAVE IT!
This list has the best spots where fun doesn’t cost a thing
AND
I have been to all of them so I know a thing or two about guiding you.
Let’s begin without any wait.
1. Nature & Parks
Who said you need to empty your wallets to enjoy nature?
You can enjoy some nice picnic spots, and walk by the lake and lush parks in Riyadh without even taking your wallet out of your pocket.
Some places that I definitely recommend are:
Riyadh Zoo
Yup!
You can visit Riyadh Zoo for free in this Riyadh season and what’s even better is that you will get to see all those exotic animals without spending a dime.
Now, they even let you feed your favorite animals like giraffes, monkeys, and elephants.
What more can one ask for?
My favorite are the Bengal tigers but watch out!
Don’t get your kids too close to them.
The zoo has over 1500 animals and offers many different activities and attractions like gift shops, restaurants, parking lots, restrooms, a train ride, and children’s play areas.
Al Haeer Lake Park
I know the traffic in Riyadh can sometimes feel overwhelming but Al Haeer Lake Park will make you forget all that hustle and bustle.
If you want to enjoy clean air with a side of calm vibes and the sound of water flowing then you will fall in love with this place.
Bring a mat, sit by the lake, and enjoy the sight of birds flying over the water.
It’s a great spot for evening walks or a relaxing picnic with friends.
WORLD SIGHTS PARK
I always wanted to see the Eiffel Tower, Taj Mahal, and Pyramids all in one place.
YEAH I KNOW
It’s not possible.
BUT
This place makes it possible without even going to an airport. This park has mini replicas of all the world-famous landmarks including things like the Eiffel Tower, Pyramids of Giza, and Saudi Arabian skyscrapers.
The place is free to visit and is going to make your Instagram profile pop out!
Al Rawda Park
Let your little ones enjoy and run wild in this park.
The place has spacious food stalls, fun activities, and ample space for skating, cycling, picnics, and even a quiet run through nature.
I usually visit this place in the evening and the cool breeze makes the whole experience even more fun.
Riyadh Park
Don’t let the name fool you because this place isn’t just a park. The restaurants in Riyadh Park are probably some of the best out there.
We are talking about free things to do in Riyadh but if you enter this mall you will be tempted to spend a few hundred riyals because everything inside feels like worth buying.
This place is ideal for taking your guests on a short trip around Riyadh while watching those cool fountains and open spaces.
Al Olaya Park
This 37 thousand square meter park is probably one of the best parks in Olaya region. The park is ideal for running, walking, and cycling with friends.
THE BEST THING?
It has an artificial lake too so you won’t have a boring walk with only palm trees around you.
On weekends you can visit this park with your friends or family for a short picnic or BBQ.
The lake also has a small waterfall and the sound of those waves will definitely relax your mind and soul.
Al Ma’athar Cave Park
This place is in the suburbs of Riyadh, south direction, and close to the South ring.
The place has just been renovated so everything feels fresh and brand new. When the sun sets down you can enjoy the nice view of the golden sky or just take a refreshing walk.
You also get some grills around the area so if you want to enjoy BBQ you won’t need to bring all the supplies with you.
2. Culture & History
Well, free places in Riyadh don’t just need to be modern skyscrapers or fun shopping malls.
The city is filled with some interesting cultural and historical spots that will take you straight to the early years of Riyadh.
AND
Some of these places won’t even cost you a single riyal.
National Museum Of Saudi Arabia
If you want to learn about the history of Saudi Arabia then this place will give you all the info you need. Located in close proximity to Masmak Fort, the museum has four different halls that have different arts and cultural things from the past and the present too.
You will get to see some of the ancient Saudi Arabian jewelry, murals, and portraits in different locations with proper details.
King Fahad National Library
Well, it’s a library but it isn’t just about books and work.
The exterior and interior design of this place is an architectural masterpiece.
The massive glass exterior and geometric design make it one of Riyadh’s most iconic landmarks. Step inside, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and browse through thousands of books.
Sometimes, they even host free exhibitions!
3. Modern City Attractions
If you are not a nature or history lover then you might be interested in some of these free modern places in Riyadh.
Panorama Mall (Free Entry Areas)
Shopping isn’t free
BUT
Walking around this place is a fun experience.
If you want to enjoy the modern side of Riyadh then this mall will not disappoint you.
You will get to see international brands, local and international restaurants, and tons of other stores where you will want to empty your wallet.
Digital City
I love futuristic designs and huge buildings with glowing lights and this place gives you exactly that for free.
The area is filled with modern buildings, tech-driven spaces, and colorful LED displays that light up beautifully at night.
This is Riyadh’s first mixed-use development with commercial, residential, and retail offerings.
The place is built for Saudi vision and to nurture a knowledge-based economy by cultivating an innovative business environment and a dynamic workplace.
