Cheapest Flights to Riyadh
About Riyadh
Riyadh is the capital of Saudi Arabia and a major city that is home to nearly 6 million people. The name of the city means "Gardens", and was founded around an oasis right in the middle of the harsh Arabian Pennisula desert. Like the country it is located in, it became wealthy due to oil money and is today a city of skyscrapers and flashy buildings.
Arabian coffee and meat dishes (especially those with camel meat) are the delicacies that should be sampled when visiting this city. You can also visit the royal Kingdom Center, as well as the Kral Fahad National Library and Museum, which is home to over 10,000 different works of Arabic calligraphy.
Riyadh is extremely hot in the summertime; so much so that people are seldom seen on the streets in the summer months. The daytime heat index can rise to over 45 ºC, with winter temperatures hovering between 20 and 25 ºC. The streets become a bit more crowded in the evenings as temperatures fall.
Transportation to Riyadh City Center from Airport
King Khalid Intl. Airport
Taxi
Taxis are available 24/7 at the arrivals area of King Khalid International Airport. They are usually metered, but confirming the fare with the driver beforehand is recommended. Expect the journey to the city center to take approximately 25-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem offer alternative options to taxis with designated ride-hailing pick-up zones near terminals.
Bus Services
Public buses connect the airport to various parts of Riyadh, including the city center. They typically operate during daytime hours, but schedules and routes should be confirmed at the airport information desk. Look for clearly marked bus stops at the arrivals area.
Metro
Riyadh metro system consists of six lines, connecting 85 stations. Line 4, or also known as the Yellow Line, runs from King Khalid International Airport to the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). Passengers opting for public transportation can use the metro, as it is available at the airport exits, and tickets can be obtained from machines at the station.
Rental Cars
Car rental agencies at the airport allow travelers to drive themselves to the city center. Ensure you have a valid international license and insurance. Parking is available at most hotels and key locations in Riyadh.
Hotel Shuttles
Many hotels in Riyadh provide shuttle services to and from the airport. Contact your hotel in advance to confirm pick-up arrangements and locations. These services are especially useful for first-time visitors.
