Located on the southern edge of Riyadh, As Suwaidi Al Gharabi is a largely residential suburb in the Saudi Arabian capital. It’s home to large-scale shopping malls, leafy green spaces and excellent eateries, all just a stone’s throw from the newly-opened Wadi Namar Dam Park.
Things to do in As Suwaidi Al Gharabi
On the southern edge of As Suwaidi Al Gharabi is the Salaam Mall, which is home to big-name international brand stores, a supermarket and plenty of casual eateries. If you’re travelling with kids, there’s also a dedicated entertainment area known as Sparkys where you’ll find modern computer games, amusement rides and a 3D cinema.
There are several patches of greenery scattered throughout As Suwaidi Al Gharabi where you can relax in the evenings, including Al Ferian Garden in the south of the suburb and Al-Uraija First Western Park in the north. A short drive east lies Wadi Namar Dam Park, which features a man-made reservoir fringed by a palm-lined promenade ideal for strolling.
When it’s time to eat, there is no shortage of restaurants in As Suwaidi Al Gharabi, including the Al Saddah Restaurant and Taj Al Kabbah. For your morning coffee, you can head to the Filter Roastery or 60 Specialty Coffee, then grab a sweet treat from the Cone Zone ice creamery. As Suwaidi Al Gharabi is also home to the Sweets Kingdom, which specializes in Saudi Arabian desserts and pastries.
Getting around As Suwaidi Al Gharabi
As Suwaidi Al Gharabi is a 20-minute drive from the centre of Riyadh and around 40 minutes from King Khalid International Airport. Minibuses and taxis are the main means of getting around the suburb while many of As Suwaidi Al Gharabi's attractions can be accessed on foot.