Riyadh’s markets offer a rich tapestry of traditional flavors, local produce, and bustling street snacks that reveal the authentic heart of Saudi culture. From smoky shawarma stalls to age-old souqs with dates and sambusas, these spots are a must for immersive culinary experiences.
1. Al Zal Market
Why visit: One of Riyadh’s oldest traditional markets where locals shop for spices, perfumes, and street snacks.
Highlights: – Fresh dates and nuts – Arabic tea and pastries – Open-air market charm
Timing: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free entry; street snacks ₹100–300
2. Souq Al Owais
Why visit: A bustling local market with food vendors, fabric shops, and daily essentials.
Highlights: – Mutabbaq stalls, tea kiosks – Lively atmosphere – Good for quick bites while shopping
Timing: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free entry; snacks ₹150–350
3. Tahlia Street Shawarma Carts
Why visit: Famous for rows of shawarma and sandwich stalls serving juicy meat wraps.
Highlights: – Chicken and beef shawarma – Garlic sauce and pickles – Open late into the night
Timing: 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Entry: ₹200–400 per wrap
4. Al Thumairi Street Food Lane
Why visit: Located near the old city, this lane offers classic Saudi snacks with an old-world charm.
Highlights: – Samboosa, luqaimat (fried dough) – Arabic coffee stalls – Popular during Ramadan evenings
Timing: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–300 per snack
5. Wadi Hanifah Park Vendors
Why visit: A scenic spot with weekend food trucks and stalls serving grills, desserts, and drinks.
Highlights: – Family-friendly picnic area – Grilled corn, fries, hot dogs – Evening crowd and music
Timing: 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM (weekends)
Entry: ₹300–600 per meal
6. Al Qasr Mall Outdoor Bites
Why visit: Outside this large mall, you’ll find evening vendors offering quick eats for shoppers.
Highlights: – Karak chai, roasted nuts, fries – Clean and safe setup – Perfect for families
Timing: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Entry: ₹100–250 per snack
7. Diriyah Food Market (event-based)
Why visit: During Riyadh Season and national events, this heritage area hosts pop-up food stalls.
Highlights: – Qursan, kabsa, Saudi desserts – Cultural setting – Live music and décor
Timing: Event-based; typically evenings
Entry: ₹300–700 per plate
8. Hittin Food Truck Park
Why visit: A trendy area with modern food trucks serving everything from burgers to local-style grilled meats.
Highlights: – Youth-friendly spot – Mix of international and Saudi tastes – Open seating
Timing: 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Entry: ₹400–800 per meal
9. Dates Market near Al Dirah
Why visit: A focused market for all varieties of Saudi dates, often paired with free tastings.
Highlights: – Ajwa, sukkari, khalas dates – Arabic hospitality – Affordable gift boxes
Timing: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free entry; prices vary by weight
10. Local bakeries in Malaz
Why visit: These small hidden bakeries serve fresh flatbreads, fatayer, and local sweets.
Highlights: – Zaatar bread, cheese rolls, samboosa – Popular with locals – Budget-friendly
Timing: 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Entry: ₹150–300 per item
Feature Image Credit - Photo by سيف الظاهر on Unsplash
