A layover in Riyadh is one of those happy accidents of air travel. King Khaled International Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by Riyadh Metro, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of RUH:
- Can you legally enter Saudi Arabia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 75-minute journey each way by Riyadh Metro, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the SAR. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Get Into Riyadh
From RUH, the Riyadh Metro gets you to Riyadh in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Riyadh Metro offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Bag Storage Near RUH
Luggage storage options at RUH can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Riyadh for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Riyadh, budget roughly $37 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $18 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
How to Spend Your Time in Riyadh
For a layover visit to Riyadh, we’d suggest Kingdom Centre Tower Skybridge and Al Faisaliah Tower. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos. A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside RUH, you can spend time at Al Fursan Golden Lounge or try Airport Duty-Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Riyadh: Najd Village Restaurant and Lusin. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Al Baik or Starbucks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at RUH should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Saudi Arabia and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, RUH has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Riyadh doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 75 minutes from RUH, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.