Riyadh

Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, located in the central part of the Arabian Peninsula on the Najd plateau. It serves as the political, administrative, and economic center of the country and hosts national government ministries, the royal court, and major business institutions.

Geography and climate: The city sits inland on a flat, arid plateau near the Wadi Hanifa. Riyadh has a hot desert climate, with extremely hot summers, mild winters, and very limited rainfall.

History: The area has long hosted settlements around oases. Riyadh rose to political prominence after its capture by Ibn Saud and was designated the capital of Saudi Arabia in 1932. The city expanded rapidly in the latter half of the 20th century due to oil wealth and government investment.

Economy and development: Riyadh is a major administrative and financial hub. Government and its affiliates provide substantial employment, while construction, real estate, finance, and services are key growth sectors. Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy and broaden non-oil activity, with large-scale projects and cultural institutions.

Landmarks, culture, and transportation: Notable sites include Masmak Fort, the National Museum, and the modern towers of Kingdom Centre and Faisaliah Center. The city hosts cultural, entertainment, and sporting events and is home to major universities, including King Saud University and Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University. Transportation networks include King Khalid International Airport and the Riyadh Metro project, along with extensive road networks and taxi services.