Historical Addir'iyah, Riyadh Saudi Arabia

          Today, I thought I would take advantage of a trip that was offered by recreation services to go to Historical Addir’iyah which is the original home of the Saudi royal family, and served as the capital of the first Saudi dynasty. Addir’iyah is located on the northwestern outskirts of Riyadh. So at 8:30 am on the first day of my weekend, we pulled out of the parking lot en-route to Historical Addir’yah.

            We probably drove about 30 minutes before we pulled up into a place where there was a lot of construction going on in a field full of what appeared to be ruins. But later the group found out that this area which is under a development project to restore and rehabilitate it into a cultural tourism site is declared by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) a world heritage site in 2010. Part of the project will include a restoration and renovation of Al-Imam Muhammad bin Saud Mosque, Salwa Palace, a light and sound display, restoration of mud houses and the establishment of the museum of ethnology which will highlight the story of the First Saudi State, to name a few.

            We were able to view some of the old palace areas, the bath house and guest house. But most areas were either roped off or filled with construction personnel or equipment. All in all, the trip to Addiri’yah is a must see for those who would like to see the “First Saudi State” in its ancient state. The project completion is slated for 2016. This historical site is definitely a must see for anyone who plans to spend some time in Riyadh.

All the best,

GMarie

Najd Village Restaurant, Riyadh Saudi Arabia

November 15, 2012
       

             After our group went and explored Historical Addir'iyah, everyone was thoroughly hungry and anticipated the next stop which was Najd Village, a traditional Saudi restaurant.

            The exterior of the building exhibited traditional Saudi decor. There was a water mill in the middle of the courtyard and the waiters were all dressed in Saudi attire (thobes). We were  escorted to a private room that had a fireplace and Saudi style majlis (a place of sitting) where the meal would be served by sitting on the floor.  We began the meal with guava (coffee) and dates while we surveyed the menu.

            The menu contained many entrees of traditional Saudi foods. My friend Ricardo and I decided to share and ordered chicken and lamb kabsa (a mixture of spices, long-grain rice, meat and vegetables) with shrimp kabsa as a side dish. Some of the folks ate with their hands, but I choice to stick with the Western way by using a fork. Both dishes were absolutely delicious! I thought the prices were very reasonable. The chicken kabsa was SR 20($5.33), the lamb was SR 50 ($13.33) and the shrimp dish was SR 30 ($8)! They offered such large portions, that we had a lot of food left over to take home.

           

            Next time, I won't let my eyes get bigger than my stomach and will try the camel, truffle dishes and the desserts; mohallabiya (pudding made with cornstarch, milk and sugar) and tahtulee (custard). Another great place to dine and experience the Saudi culture in the Kingdom.

All the best,

GMarie