For a long time Riyadh was mainly a transit city for those visiting Saudi Arabia. Today, however, the Saudi capital is establishing itself as a destination with its own tourist identity, able to fuse historic mud-brick neighborhoods, contemporary architecture, major international events, and new projects devoted to sport and entertainment.
A change that will become even more interesting for Italian travelers with the arrival of new direct flight connections.
New Flights from Italy
One of the most interesting developments for travelers departing from Italy concerns Riyadh Air, the new Saudi airline. The company has expanded its commercial footprint in Italy by appointing Discover The World as its commercial representative, in view of launching connections between Milan and Riyadh.
The debut on the Milano-Riyadh route is scheduled for December 16, 2026, with four weekly flights operated with a Boeing 787-9.
What to See in Riyadh, the Futuristic Capital
Riyadh is a modern metropolis, the political and economic hub of Saudi Arabia, but its contemporary look has not erased the traces of history. On the contrary, it is precisely the contrast between skyscrapers, modern districts and traditional architecture that makes a visit compelling.
The starting point is Diriyah and the historic district of At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010: northwest of the capital, it was the heart of the first capital of the Saudi dynasty and preserves an important example of Najdi traditional architecture, characterized by the use of raw mud bricks. Today At-Turaif has been enhanced with trails, museums and experiences dedicated to the history of the place, while the Diriyah area complements the historic heritage with restaurants, culture and new spaces for visitors.
In the heart of historic Riyadh also stand Al-Masmak Fortress and the traditional souqs, including Souq Al-Zal, where the atmosphere differs from the modern districts of the capital.
To deepen the history of the Arabian Peninsula you can then visit the National Museum, while to observe Riyadh from above one of the most noted experiences is the Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge, a viewpoint suspended at over 300 meters in height. Additionally, about 90 kilometers to the northwest is Edge of the World, the famous cliffside panorama overlooking the desert.
Another future development is Qiddiya City, where the Speed Park Track is under construction, a circuit designed to host major motor racing competitions, including Formula 1. The project features 21 curves, open and road configurations and the spectacular Blade, a roughly 70-meter-tall elevated section. The track is set to become one of the new hubs of sport and entertainment in the Riyadh region.
The Riyadh Season 2026-2027
If you choose to visit the capital during the winter months, another reason for interest is Riyadh Season, the grand calendar of entertainment, culture and sport that animates the city with events and showcases. Among the emblematic venues is Boulevard City, a district devoted to dining, performances and entertainment, which during the season becomes one of the capital’s main gathering spots.
The program also includes high-profile sporting events. In 2027 Riyadh Season will host WrestleMania 43, announced by WWE to be held in Riyadh: it will be the first edition of the event organized outside North America.
Horse racing also holds an important place on the calendar. The Riyadh Racing Season 2026-2027 at the King Abdulaziz Racecourse is officially scheduled from 16 October 2026 to 17 April 2027, with 69 races and a total prize pool of 197.8 million Saudi riyals.
