Being born and raised in Riyadh for the most part of my life was a very interesting experience. I got to see Riyadh transform from being a conservative place that had limited places to go to a city with massive malls and parks where families and women can go in order to have a great time.
Kingdom Center is definitely THE place to go to along with Al Faisaliah Mall. Anyone who has lived there knows what a huge upgrade this place was compared to places like Al Akaria . Although Kingdom Center is known for its large amount of designer brands, the main focus of this mall is the fact that there is an entire floor dedicated to women with spas, beauty salons, stores and high class bar-esque looking restaurants. It will give you the feeling that you are in some place other than Riyadh.
The amazing thing about Al Faisaliah Mall is that it's somewhat the opposite and more popular version of Kingdom Center. It's THE place where all the cool kids go to and hang out. Before the new law regarding the religious police came out, guys and girls often got into a lot of trouble with the religious police for being "too open" with one another.
1st Paintball is one of the places you can go to in Riyadh where you can have a lot of fun. Don't worry, there are a list of requirements one should follow in order not to get hurt and you will be coached on how to play.
Riyadh Gallery is personally one of my favorites, not just because of its stores but because it has one of the best designs when it comes to shopping malls in Riyadh. It's a great "in-between" place for people to shop. You don't just have the fancy shoppers who go to Kingdom Center or just the cool kids who chill at Faisaliah. You have a mixture of both.
6. Salaam Mall
8. Salam Park
The park is basically a huge area covered with grass. It has a dancing fountain equipped with laser technology, amphitheaters, an open area for conducting shows and events and a Saudi flag post 37 meters high. Children can also enjoy cycling and skating there. The dancing fountain starts after Maghrib. On weekends, the fountain performs after Asar prayers and before Maghrib and Esha prayers.
The Park is open for five days – Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday – for families and two days for bachelors – Monday and Wednesday.
9. Prince Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Bin Ayaf Park
If you're looking for a place to get away from it all, this is it. This is one of the 20 park projects launched by Riyadh's governor Prince Faisal bin Bandar to create a friendlier environment for the Saudis and expats living in Riyadh.
If you're looking for a hobby to take up, this place is definitely the one for you. Not only does this place train you to ride horses professionally but it also offers horse owners a Horse Livery service, teaching you everything from feeding to grooming to training your horse.
11. Al-Maalem park
UBC is very popular among expats. It's not just a bowling place. It has pool tables and arcade video games as well.
13. King Abdullah Park Fountain
If you're looking to go for a walk and enjoy a sight you go visit this place. King Abdullah's park fountain is known for its dancing fountain that changes colors almost every time it starts. The only downside to this place is that it's always crowded, due to its massive popularity among people.