Desert Oasis Driving Tour of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Can you see the first landmark on our tour today? I’d be surprised if you didn’t, due to its insane stature! The massive skyscraper in front of us is one of the most influential and recognizable buildings in all of Riyadh, Kingdom Centre Tower! Completed in 2002, it was a part of a project aimed to create a modern and architectural icon that would symbolize Riyadh’s growth and development, and it definitely did just that. Its distinctive parabolic arch at the top of the tower makes it easily recognizable and a true standout. The tower has even received several architectural awards for its groundbreaking design and engineering. At 302.3 meters (992 feet)) tall, it’s a beautiful modern skyscraper, with a sleek, minimalist design, that still intrigues to this day!
Kingdom Centre Tower stands as a testament to Riyadh’s rapid development and ambition, offering a blend of luxury, functionality, and innovative design. With a Sky Bridge that offers one of the best views in the entire city, plus a shopping mall, office spaces, and the incredibly luxurious Four Seasons Hotel. And, if you’re really loving Riyadh after our tour is complete, perhaps you will look into the residential apartments in the very Kingdom Centre Tower! You could look at this view every morning when you sip your coffee, doesn’t sound half bad to me!
Regardless, don't forget to check the tower out in the evening, when it is lit up with spectacular bright lights, that somehow makes the skyscraper even more amazing. Our next place is another impressive tower to boast about! See you there.

We have arrived at the iconic Al Faisaliah Tower! The first skyscraper ever built in Riyadh, it stands as a symbol of the city’s beginnings and its strong motivation and drive to grow a powerful and innovative community. The structure was completed in 2000, and marked a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s architectural history. Featuring a tapering structure with a striking glass and steel facade, its most distinctive feature is the globe near the top, which houses The Globe Restaurant, offering stunning panoramic views of Riyadh. Standing at 267 meters (876 feet) tall with 44 floors, how could it not! If you’re not making a reservation at The Globe Restaurant though, but still want to catch that amazing view from up above, there is a unique sky bridge that connects the tower to its adjacent buildings. This bridge offers a spectacular vantage point to enjoy more of those stunning panoramic views of the city.
The idea for Al Faisaliah Tower was conceived in the 1990s as part of a broader vision to modernize Riyadh and establish it as a major commercial and business hub in the Middle East. And while of course wanting the skyscraper to represent Saudi Arabia, the building was actually inspired by the shape of a desert flower, reflecting the natural environment of Saudi Arabia. And be sure to stop by the tower once the sun has set, because just like the Kingdom Centre Tower, Al Faisaliah Tower is illuminated with an impressive lighting display that accentuates its unique architectural features, making it one of the most exciting sights in Riyadh’s skyline.
Over the years, the tower has undergone several renovations and upgrades to maintain its status as a premier destination in Riyadh. The tower is part of a larger complex that includes a shopping mall with a variety of high-end retail stores and boutiques, as well an ample amount of office space. There is also The Al Faisaliah Hotel, a luxury hotel, with beautiful upscale rooms and services. Basically, the Al Faisaliah Tower and complex has everything you could ever want!