Riyadh: The Jewel of the Arabian Desert

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaban]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [udhran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluka?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [ana la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأود أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [awad 'an 'ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad 'an 'udfi, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassal bitalib!]
• I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [ana dayi']
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid 'an 'ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atafaraj]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam si'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka takhfid alsu'ur?]

• What time is it?كم الوقت؟
  [kam alwaqt?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [alwahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashirah walnusf]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsaabah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [almasa']
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka 'an tureeni (ala alkhareetah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata alhafilah alttaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkarah (ila ...)]

Before the advent of Islam, the area where Riyadh is now located was part of the Al-Yamama region, inhabited by various tribes. The fertile land and strategic location made it a hub for trade and agriculture. The city’s name, derived from the Arabic word for 'gardens' or 'meadows,' reflects its lush environment during this period.

With the spread of Islam in the 7th century, the region saw significant changes. Riyadh and its surrounding areas became part of the Islamic Caliphates. The city was relatively small but held religious and strategic importance due to its location on the trade routes.

In the mid-18th century, the Al Saud family established their first Saudi state in Diriyah, near present-day Riyadh. This marked the beginning of the modern history of the region. Diriyah became a center of power and culture, contributing to the growth and significance of Riyadh.

In 1902, Abdulaziz Ibn Saud captured Riyadh, marking a pivotal moment in Saudi history. This event was crucial in the unification of the various tribes and regions into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Riyadh was chosen as the capital, symbolizing the unity and strength of the new nation.

The 1960s and 1970s under King Faisal saw extensive modernization efforts in Riyadh. Infrastructure projects, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities were developed, transforming Riyadh into a modern metropolis. This period also marked the beginning of Riyadh’s expansion and urbanization.

The oil boom of the late 20th century brought unprecedented wealth to Saudi Arabia. Riyadh experienced rapid growth, becoming a hub for business and government. Skyscrapers, highways, and modern amenities reshaped the city’s landscape, making it a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s economic prowess.

In recent years, Riyadh has embarked on an ambitious cultural and economic transformation as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The city is seeing the development of cultural institutions, entertainment venues, and mega-projects like the King Abdullah Financial District. These efforts aim to diversify the economy and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Riyadh is well-connected to the rest of the world through King Khalid International Airport (RUH), located about 35 kilometers north of the city center. The airport serves numerous international and domestic flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service to reach your destination in the city. Additionally, Riyadh is accessible by road from other major cities in Saudi Arabia, and there are intercity buses and trains available.

Riyadh offers various modes of transportation, including taxis, ride-sharing services, and public buses. The Riyadh Metro, currently under construction with some lines already operational, will provide a convenient and efficient way to navigate the city. Renting a car is also an option, but be aware of local driving customs and traffic regulations. For shorter distances, walking is feasible in certain areas, although the city is generally car-oriented.

The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Riyadh, and currency exchange services are available at the airport and within the city.

Riyadh is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates compared to many other global cities. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions: avoid displaying valuable items, be cautious in crowded places, and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Some neighborhoods, such as Batha, may have higher petty crime rates; exercise extra vigilance when visiting these areas.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, 997 for medical emergencies, and 998 for the fire department. Major hospitals, such as King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, provide high-quality medical care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, with men and women avoiding revealing clothing. Women should wear an abaya in public. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially during prayer times. Avoid discussing religion or politics. Public Transport: Do be respectful and avoid loud conversations. Men should avoid sitting next to women they are not related to. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; avoid shaking hands with the opposite gender unless initiated by them. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept hospitality graciously. Don't eat, drink, or smoke in public during the holy month of Ramadan from dawn until dusk.

To experience Riyadh like a local, visit traditional markets (souks) such as Souk Al Zal for antiques and Souk Al Thumairi for traditional goods. Enjoy local cuisine at popular eateries like Najd Village. Engage with locals to learn about the culture and history of the city. Don't miss visiting historical sites like Diriyah, the original home of the Saudi royal family, and the National Museum of Saudi Arabia.