Routes World 2026
Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
• 27 – 29 October 2026
Complimentary Tours
Routes World 2026 delegates are invited to attend a complimentary tour on Monday 26 October. Designed to ensure you can enjoy the best of Riyadh, our hosts have organised spectacular tours to enjoy.
Registration for complimentary tours will open soon. If you want to express your interest in advance, please contact RoutesCustomerService@informa.com. Please note that pick up locations will be available from Official Hotels only.
Our complimentary tours are organised by our hosts and their partners. Please note, by participating in these tours, your contact details wil be shared with these partners. Your information will only be used for the purposes of this activity and will not be stored.
Classic Cultural Riyadh tour
This cultural immersion begins at the National Museum, where immersive galleries trace Arabia’s journey from ancient civilizations to the formation of the modern Kingdom. The experience continues at Al Masmak Fortress, the mudbrick stronghold that witnessed the pivotal events leading to Saudi unification, offering a tangible connection to the nation’s founding story.
Guests then explore the lively lanes of Souq Al Thumairi, where traditional textiles, spices, and local crafts reflect the rhythm of everyday Saudi life. The day concludes at Wadi Hanifa, where landscaped walkways and tranquil sunset views provide a serene contrast to the historic morning, completing a journey that moves from heritage foundations to natural urban beauty.
Modern Riyadh
This contemporary exploration of Riyadh showcases the capital’s architectural ambition and economic transformation. The experience begins at the iconic Kingdom Centre, where the Sky Bridge offers sweeping panoramic views across the expanding skyline, symbolizing the city’s rapid ascent. It continues to Al Faisaliah Tower, one of the Kingdom’s earliest modern landmarks, representing the foundation of Riyadh’s commercial evolution.
The journey culminates at King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), a futuristic hub of finance, sustainability, and urban design, where bold architecture and interconnected pedestrian corridors reflect Saudi Arabia’s forward-looking vision. Together, these landmarks present Riyadh not just as a capital city, but as a global business powerhouse in motion.
Desert Adventure
The day begins with an early departure toward the dramatic cliffs of Edge of the World, where the vast Tuwaiq escarpment stretches endlessly toward the horizon. Standing atop these ancient rock formations offers a profound sense of scale and silence — a landscape that feels untouched and timeless.
Guests enjoy a guided exploration and light hiking experience, followed by a curated desert picnic set against one of the Kingdom’s most breathtaking natural backdrops. The stillness of the desert, combined with panoramic views, creates a powerful and memorable shared moment. Following the morning adventure, the group returns to Riyadh for rest and refreshment before transitioning into a relaxed evening at Boulevard City. Illuminated walkways, casual dining options, and lively urban ambiance provide a soft landing after the raw intensity of the desert.
Cultural Immersion
The journey begins at the National Museum, where immersive galleries trace Arabia’s evolution from ancient civilizations to the formation of the modern Kingdom. Guests then step into history at Al Masmak Fortress, the mudbrick stronghold central to Saudi unification, offering a tangible connection to the nation’s founding story.
The experience continues at Souq Al Zal, one of Riyadh’s oldest markets, where antique carpets, traditional garments, spices, and handcrafted items create a lively glimpse into local culture. The day concludes in the Red Sands desert with traditional hospitality in a tented setting. Arabic coffee and dates welcome guests before camel riding, quad biking, and relaxed majlis-style games complete the adventure.