Best neighborhoods in Riyadh

6 areas in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — what each one feels like, who it suits, and roughly what it costs.

Diriyah ($$) — Mud-brick heritage, date palms Best for Heritage + dining. At-Turaif's restored mud-brick town and a dining terrace beside it. The country's flagship heritage project, still expanding. Getting around: Car essential
Olaya ($$) — Kingdom Tower, retail spine Best for First-timers. The Kingdom Centre sky bridge and malls in every direction. The commercial centre — dense, by Riyadh standards. Getting around: Metro Line 1 (Blue)
Al Malaz ($) — Older grid, everyday markets Best for Budget. Cheaper rooms and honest local food, away from the towers. One of the oldest planned districts; unpretentious. Getting around: Metro Line 2 (Red)
Hittin ($$) — Villa compounds, wide roads Best for Long stays. Space, supermarkets, and a long drive to the old city. Where the new villas and international schools went. Getting around: Car essential
KAFD ($$) — Sculpted towers, new district Best for Business. Striking architecture, and the metro runs right into it. Built for finance; still filling with tenants. Getting around: Metro Lines 1 and 4
Diplomatic Quarter ($$) — Walled embassies, desert gardens Best for Quiet + walking. Wadi walking paths and the calmest streets in the city. Green, secured and self-contained. Getting around: Car; limited access points