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Al Faisaliyah Centre
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Landmark
The Al Faisaliyah Centre in Riyadh is one of Saudi Arabia's most distinctive skyscrapers and a landmark of the capital's modern development. Completed in 2000, it was the country's first true skyscraper, designed by the renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners. The design is characterized by its slender, pyramidal form, culminating in a giant glass globe integrated near the top. This globe houses the exclusive 'The Globe' restaurant, which provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Riyadh skyline. Standing at approximately 267 meters tall, the building remains a focal point of the Olaya business district. In addition to office spaces, the complex includes a luxury shopping mall, a high-end hotel, and several banquet halls. The facade was engineered to minimize solar gain while maximizing natural light and ventilation, essential for the desert climate. The project set a new standard for Saudi architecture and signaled the start of Riyadh's high-rise construction boom.
- Location: Saudi Arabia
- Top sights: The Palace Museum · King Salman Park · Yamamah Palace
- Nearby: Riyadh (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 13 | 16 | 21 | 26 | 31 | 34 | 35 | 35 | 32 | 26 | 20 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 5 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Al Faisaliyah Centre in Riyadh is a modern business and shopping center, open to the public. The observation deck in the golden glass globe at the top is typically open to visitors.
Typical hours
The shopping center is typically open daily from 9:30 AM to 11:00 PM, the observation deck from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM. On Fridays, shops usually open only at 2:00 PM.
Photography
Photography is usually allowed in the shopping center and from the observation deck. Please avoid taking photos of security personnel or other visitors without their consent.
Time needed
A visit to the shopping center and the observation deck typically takes about one to one and a half hours. If you also want to eat at one of the restaurants, plan for two hours.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the Kingdom Centre, just one kilometer away, which also features an observation deck. The Riyadh National Park (King Abdullah Park) is also nearby.
Getting there
The Al Faisaliyah Centre is located in Riyadh's business district on Olaya Street and is reachable by taxi or metro (Al Faisaliyah station). From the metro station, it is about a three-minute walk.
Insider tip
Visit the observation deck at sunset for a spectacular view over the Riyadh skyline. Book a dinner in advance at the revolving restaurant for a special experience.
Geography
Facts
- The building was officially opened in May 2000.
- The total height of the tower is approximately 267 meters.
- The structure consists of 44 floors above ground level.
- It was designed by the award-winning architect Norman Foster.
- The glass globe near the summit has a diameter of 24 meters.
- The centre includes one of the most prestigious shopping malls in Riyadh.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Al Faisaliyah Centre (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is there a restaurant at the top?
Yes, the famous golden sphere houses an upscale restaurant.
Is entry to the tower free?
The mall is freely accessible; the observation deck requires a ticket.
When is the best time for a visit?
Late afternoon gives the best view of the sunset.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for 1 to 2 hours for the view and visiting the mall.
Is the building wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the center is modern and wheelchair accessible.
Al Faisaliyah Centre: where is it located?
Al Faisaliyah Centre is located in Saudi Arabia.
Al Faisaliyah Centre: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Palace Museum, King Salman Park, Yamamah Palace.
Al Faisaliyah Centre: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Nov.
Al Faisaliyah Centre: why is it worth visiting?
The Al Faisaliyah Centre in Riyadh is one of Saudi Arabia's most distinctive skyscrapers and a landmark of the capital's modern development.
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