Things to do in Riyadh in October

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Overview

October is a good time to visit Riyadh. The weather is usually hot with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 68—95°F (20—35°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Riyadh during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, experience traditional Saudi cuisine at a local restaurant, explore the historic Al-Masmak Fortress, and more!

Riyadh has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your October trip to Riyadh. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to October. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Riyadh in October. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout October, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Don't take our word for it
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Best events and things to do in Riyadh in October

Top experiences in October
Visit the National Museum of Saudi Arabia
The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is a must-visit attraction for history and culture enthusiasts. In October, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of the country's rich heritage, featuring artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays that showcase the history, art, and traditions of Saudi Arabia. Visitors can explore the museum's various galleries, which cover topics such as pre-Islamic history, Islamic art and architecture, and the cultural heritage of the Arabian Peninsula. The museum also hosts special events and programs, providing a deeper understanding of the region's diverse and vibrant culture.
Experience traditional Saudi cuisine at a local restaurant
October is a great time to indulge in the delicious flavors of traditional Saudi cuisine. Riyadh is home to a wide range of restaurants and eateries that offer authentic dishes such as kabsa, mandi, and mutabbaq, as well as a variety of grilled meats, fresh seafood, and flavorful desserts. Visitors can savor the unique spices and ingredients that are characteristic of Saudi cuisine, and enjoy the warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere of local dining establishments. Trying traditional Saudi cuisine is a delightful and memorable experience for food lovers.
Explore the historic Al-Masmak Fortress
Al-Masmak Fortress is a historic landmark in Riyadh, dating back to the 19th century. In October, the fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history and heritage. Visitors can explore the well-preserved fortress, which houses a museum showcasing artifacts, photographs, and exhibits related to the history of Riyadh and the surrounding area. The fortress also hosts cultural events and activities, providing an immersive experience for visitors interested in learning about the city's past.
Take a day trip to the Edge of the World
The Edge of the World is a stunning natural rock formation located just outside of Riyadh. In October, the weather is ideal for outdoor activities, making it the perfect time to embark on a day trip to this breathtaking site. Visitors can hike to the edge of the cliffs and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. The Edge of the World is a popular spot for photography, picnicking, and stargazing, offering a unique and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Visit the Riyadh Zoo during the cooler October weather
The Riyadh Zoo is a popular attraction in the city, home to a diverse collection of animals from around the world. In October, the weather in Riyadh becomes more pleasant, making it the perfect time to visit the zoo and explore its various exhibits. Visitors can see a wide range of animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants, and learn about their habitats and behaviors. The zoo also offers educational programs and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.
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Holidays in Riyadh in October
October

There are no holidays in Riyadh in October

Other notable holidays
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Weather in Riyadh in October

Temperatures on an average day in Riyadh in October

The average temperature in Riyadh in October for a typical day ranges from a high of 95°F (35°C) to a low of 68°F (20°C). Some would describe it as hot with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Riyadh, July, has days with highs of 111°F (44°C) and lows of 82°F (28°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 72°F (22°C) and lows of 45°F (7°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Riyadh in October based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in October
95°F
highs
68°F
lows

General weather summary

Hot with a gentle breeze
Feels like
0%
Chance of rain
0.002 in
Amount
11.3 mph
Wind speed
20%
Humidity
11.6 hrs
Daylight length
5:50 AM
Sunrise
5:26 PM
Sunset
84%
Cloud cover
Sleeveless shirt
What to wear
What to wear in October
With an average high of 95°F (35°C) and a low of 68°F (20°C), it generally feels hot with a gentle breeze. With that in mind, most people would dress in something very light like a sleeveless shirt
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Best attractions for Riyadh in October

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Riyadh has to offer for travelers in October, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Riyadh that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Riyadh for October.
Center Point
1. Center Point
Building
Sights & Landmarks
99-story skyscraper with a unique arched top & sky bridge with a public viewing platform.
Swarovski Faisaliah Mall - Prince Sultan Gate
2. Swarovski Faisaliah Mall - Prince Sultan Gate
4.2
(108)
Jewelry store
Sights & Landmarks
Brand-name apparel, jewelry & lifestyle stores, plus casual eating options, in a modern mall.
The National Museum
3. The National Museum
4.5
(13931)
Museum
National museum
Restored former palace with a library, art gallery, cultural exhibits & a large garden.
Riyadh Zoo
4. Riyadh Zoo
4.2
(40065)
Animal park
Outdoor Activities
Large, popular zoo opened in 1987, featuring 1500+ animals, train rides & prayer halls.
King Abdullah Park
5. King Abdullah Park
4.3
(37670)
Park
Nature & Parks
Big city park with 12-m. walkways, play & sports areas & dancing water fountain displays.
Al Bujairi Heritage Park
6. Al Bujairi Heritage Park
4.4
(12945)
National park
Park
Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall
7. Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall
4.4
(57228)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Fashionable mall with high-end global brands, a food court, fountains & a kids' play attraction.
Al Rajhi Mosque
8. Al Rajhi Mosque
4.8
(33765)
Mosque
Sights & Landmarks
Striking mosque with a dome, twin minarets & a cavernous prayer hall, illuminated at night.
Granada Mall
9. Granada Mall
4.4
(46802)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Expansive mall offering 200+ shops, including global brands, plus a food court & indoor play area.
Riyadh Gallery Mall
10. Riyadh Gallery Mall
4.3
(57259)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Large mall with stores selling international brands, plus fountains, a food court & kids' play area.
Salam Park
11. Salam Park
4.4
(7151)
Park
Nature & Parks
The National Museum
12. The National Museum
4.5
(13927)
Museum
National museum
Restored former palace with a library, art gallery, cultural exhibits & a large garden.
Nando's Tahlia Street Riyadh (Permanently Closed)
13. Nando's Tahlia Street Riyadh (Permanently Closed)
4.1
(3005)
Chicken restaurant
Sights & Landmarks
Saqer Al-Jazirah Royal Air Force Museum
14. Saqer Al-Jazirah Royal Air Force Museum
4.5
(1976)
History museum
Museums
Airliners, helicopters & military planes, plus exhibits on the history of the Royal Saudi Air Force.
Panorama Mall
15. Panorama Mall
4.4
(39951)
Shopping mall
Shopping
Large, modern mall featuring high-end global brands, a food court & a women's wellness complex.
King Abdulaziz Equestrian Field
16. King Abdulaziz Equestrian Field
4.6
(2178)
Racecourse
Fun & Games

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Riyadh?

Get inspired for your trip to Riyadh with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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