Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is a beautiful city – one that is growing and changing at an impressive speed. Yet much of the Kingdom’s capital remains as it has for years. Traditional style housing and buildings, most of which are no higher than two stories, still dominate this sprawling city, but the gargantuan and glitzy new developments are no longer few and far between.
From massive, iconic skyscrapers, incredible hotels and modern restaurants, brand new districts built from scratch, to the traditional and modest abodes in which many of Riyadh’s citizens still reside, the Saudi capital is a study in architectural contrast and reveals much about Saudi Arabia’s citizens and residents.
As travel restrictions between Saudi Arabia and the United States ease, and the Kingdom’s non-religious tourism industry begins to prepare for the casual international visitor, Riyadh will become a more attractive and recognized destination. Inspired in part by Foreign Policy’s “Instagramming Iran” by Holly Dagres, and mostly by the opportunity to see and Instagram Riyadh myself, SUSTG.org is pleased to present these stunning photos of Riyadh through the favorable lens of Instagram, a globally growing social network that allows users to share and edit photos easily and beautifully.
SUSTG invites you to use the hashtag #INSTARIYADH on Instagram and we’ll share the best photos of Riyadh from our readers on our Instagram account!
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The King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Designed by Henning Larsens Architects, the new city adjacent to Riyadh will also be known simply as “Riyadh’s Financial District” and will host many of the financial institutions operating in Saudi Arabia.
The Kingdom Tower in Riyadh is the symbol of the city. The largest building in Riyadh has a large mall, offices, and a Four Seasons hotel. Also known as the “Kingdom Centre,” the building was completed in 2002.
A traditional Saudi dinner, served to seated guests at Alkariah Alnagdiah Restaurant in Riyadh.
The Al-Faisaliah tower in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The second tallest building in Riyadh was supposedly modeled after a pen, and even has a cigar lounge on the top floor.
The lobby of the Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The Ritz Carlton is arguably the world’s nicest hotel. Situated just outside of Riyadh and designed by Oger International, the hotel represents the international hotel chain’s first foray into the Kingdom, and boasts more than 500 rooms and opulent touches.
A blue building glows in the cool Riyadh sky at night. In the winter, Riyadh can see large temperature swings with lows hovering near the freezing mark.
A Victoria’s Secret store in the Kingdom Centre mall, inside the Kingdom Tower. Lingerie shops like this one have recently been mandated to have all-female staff.
Another view of the Kingdom Tower at night.
The streets of Riyadh at sunset. Riyadh authorities are seeking to address Riyadh’s issues with traffic by planning a massive metrorail system to serve Riyadh’s citizens.
A Saudia jet awaits passengers at the King Khalid airport, about 30 minutes outside of Riyadh.
The skyline of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia seen from a building on King Fahd road.
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