Saudi's Historic Diriyah Castles Open to the Public for the First Time

Beyond Riyadh’s glittering skyline lies the birthplace of the First Saudi State and a site where history is etched in mud-brick walls and sunlit courtyards—Diriyah, home to historic castles that will be free for the public to explore for the very first time until February 11th, 2026.  A travel dream brought to life by Hal Al-Qusoor—a seasonal cultural and heritage event in Diriyah—the palaces will offer a rare glimpse into the political, cultural, and domestic life of 18th-century Saudi Arabia.  From Salwa Palace, a royal residence, to Sibalat Modhi, a charitable centre for students and travellers, each site showcases Najdi architecture at its finest: geometric façades, terraced courtyards, and structures built to withstand the desert climate. Treasuries, mosques, and bathhouses complete the picture, offering insight into a society at once austere and meticulously organised. Hal Al-Qusoor’s approach to this historic moment is immersive: interactive exhibits and storytelling experiences invite visitors to move through the spaces as participants rather than observers. Courtyards, staircases, and hidden nooks reveal themselves gradually, encouraging exploration. Finally, live performances and artisanal markets bring the streets and courtyards to life, adding color, sound, and movement to the centuries-old architecture.  For anyone seeking to connect with Saudi Arabia’s history—beyond the textbooks and city tours—this is a rare chance to walk through the past and witness it come to life.