5 Top Souks in Riyadh for the Ultimate Shopping Day Out
The Best Souks in Riyadh for All Your Shopping Needs
Looking for a traditional place to shop for goodies? There’s no better place to do exactly that than by weaving through one of many fantastic souks in Riyadh.
These souks are some of the oldest marketplaces in the capital and are some of the best if you’re in the market (sorry, not sorry) for a great time, and an even greater deal. Here’s where to go. Happy shopping!
The best souks in Riyadh for all your shopping needs
Almaigliah Souq
Looking for a great scent on a budget? Almaigliah Souq might just be your best friend when it comes to souks in Riyadh.
This souk has a great selection of perfumes, bukhoor (scented wood chips soaked in perfume oil for a long time), and more. Also in the market you’ll find abayas, thobe, and traditional clothing, as well as cosmetics, fabrics, and more.
Open Sat-Thu 8am-11:30pm. Fri 2pm-11:30pm. Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Bin Mohammad Road, Diriyah
Souq Al Owais
Wondering where to start at the souks in Riyadh? This beautiful open market caters to all your needs. At first glance, it will seem as if this souk only stocks elegant gold and silver jewellery, but upon closer inspection, you’ll be greeted by tonnes of abaya stores, textiles, gorgeous bishts. The tiny stalls sell just about everything from food to clothes. Grab a few riyals and keep your haggling skills in the clutch.
Open daily 8.30am-midnight. Olaya St, King Fahd
Souq Al Thumairi
The small lanes here are packed with local craftsmanship that will likely blow you away. Boutique stores sell everything from jewellery, rugs, clothing, pots and even silverware. There aren’t many places to find handmade, authentic, Saudi souvenirs located in the heart of old Riyadh. Want something a little extra to give your dishes that certain zing? You can also shop for fresh herbs, spices and more, coffee beans and saffron. It’s easy to spend an entire night here and while you’re there, don’t forget to make a pit stop at one of the many little food stalls and refuel with some Arabic coffee and delicious dates.
Open Sat-Thu 9am-noon & 8pm-midnight; Fri 8pm-midnight. Souq Al Thumairi, Al Thumairi Street.
Souq Al-Zal
Incense, antiques, textiles and more – take your pick. Souq-al-Zal is found in the Diriyah neighbourhood and is the oldest and biggest antique marketplace in Riyadh, making it one of Riyadh’s most popular attractions.
The name, Souq Al-Zal, translates to “carpet market”, and the place stocks gorgeous handwoven brightly coloured carpets from all over the world, too. It’s one of the souks in Riyadh for Ramadan that promises interesting items everywhere you look.
Open daily 3:30pm-10:30pm. Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Ibrahim Street، Ad Dirah
The Date Souq
Just the market we’re all after. Dates are available in a variety of colours, sizes, ripeness and sweetness. Don’t know where to start? We suggest going for the ajwa variety. These may be a little more pricey than the rest of the bunch, but they are grown exclusively in Medina, and are the most celebrated variety of dates across the Kingdom. The hugely popular souk is located just off of Exit 14 in Riyadh, and it also sells loads of fruits and vegetables.
Open 7am-11pm. 7623 Eastern Ring Branch Rd, Ar Rawabi
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