The capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh has become one of the Middle East’s most alluring cities for professionals, attracting experts from the region and the world. Its futuristic skyscrapers and extraordinary vision contrast with the richness of the city’s ancient cultural sites, including Diriyah, the birthplace of the Kingdom and a World Heritage Site situated close to our campus.
New districts are being developed all the time, contributing to the vitality one feels as one of its more than 7.5 million residents. With a lively café culture, as well as burgeoning arts, music and culinary scenes, there is always a choice of things to do when not at work.
Away from the hustle and bustle of urban life, the city offers a host of wadis and green spaces to enjoy, as well as a wide range of sporting activities including golf, tennis, cycling, horse riding and more.
Cultural events include the annual Janadriyah Festival which celebrates Saudi camel racing, dance, poetry, arts and crafts, as well as traditional Saudi food. For fans of live music, Soundstorm is an outstanding multi-day, multi-genre music festival featuring top artists from all over the world. The Riyadh Season has also become a hugely popular carnival-style event, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Further afield, visits to Medina, Mecca (Muslims only), Jeddah and the Red Sea are just a short flight away making them popular for weekends. And if you’re looking for a special desert experience, the AlUla Valley needs to be on your bucket list. As the Kingdom’s first World Heritage Site, its rock formations have become an iconic symbol of the unexplored beauty of Saudi Arabia.