Dog Friendly City Guide: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
This dog-friendly guide to Riyadh, written by our founder and based on his trips to the city, provides details on where to find the best dog friendly parks, bars, restaurants, activities, and hotels when traveling with your dog to Saudi Arabia.
Welcome to Riyadh, the vibrant and ever-evolving capital city of Saudi Arabia, nestled in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula, Riyadh is a fascinating blend of rich cultural heritage and modern innovation. As a dog owner planning to visit this bustling metropolis, you'll be delighted to know that Riyadh has long embraced a dog-friendly culture, making it a paw-some destination for you and your dog. This dog friendly city guide is curated to help you and your dog make the most of your time in Riyadh. Explore its dog-friendly spots, savor delightful experiences, and immerse yourselves in the city's unique charm during your stay.
Historically & Culturally Dog Friendly
Saudi Arabia has historically been a dog friendly country, and it even has its own culturally significant heritage dog breed, the Arabian Saluki. I recently researched the Saluki in collaboration with the Aseel Arabian Saluki Center and spoke to many different Saudi dog owners, who reaffirmed my view that Riyadh is quickly evolving to become one of the most openly dog friendly cities in the Middle East.
Late last year, Riyadh hosted the first-ever International Dog Festival, attracting 250 different dog breeds from around the world to Saudi Arabia. Fahad Al Farhan, Founder of the IAASC, told me, "It's heartening to see how dog-friendly Saudi Arabia is becoming; we are embracing a more inclusive approach to dog ownership, with more public spaces, parks, and facilities welcoming dogs."
Dog Friendly Parks in Riyadh
Riyadh may be known for its vast desert landscape, but it also offers several green havens for you and your pup to enjoy. Salam Park is a popular spot for families and dog owners alike. The park's walking paths and open spaces make it a fantastic place for your dog to stretch their legs and for you to take in the serene surroundings. For a more scenic experience, visit King Fahd Cultural Park. While dogs must be on a leash, the park's beautiful gardens and charming architecture provide the perfect backdrop for an afternoon stroll with your furry friend.
If you prefer a park with more recreational facilities, head to Al Hokair Land. This amusement park offers a dog-friendly zone where your pup can enjoy some playtime and meet new furry friends. Another great option is Al Malaz Park, which is known for its spacious areas and scenic lake. Dogs are allowed on a leash, making it a lovely spot for a peaceful dog walk around their beautiful lake.
Definitely visit LucaLand, a huge and well-managed dog park and the country's first park of its kind. It has various cafes, so you can relax while your dog plays.
Dog Friendly Cafés in Riyadh
When it's time for a coffee break, Riyadh's dog friendly cafés have you covered, starting with The Barking Lot, which serves food and drinks while your dog gets good grooming in their in-house salon. Then there is the Art Café, a cozy establishment that welcomes dogs in its outdoor seating area. You can enjoy delicious treats while your pup relaxes by your side. For a trendy experience, visit RAW Coffee Company, a hip café with a relaxed vibe. Your dog will be treated to water and maybe even a few belly rubs from the friendly staff.
If you're looking for a pet-friendly café with a unique twist, check out Dez Cafe, where you can savor delightful dishes while your dog enjoys a designated outdoor area. For a more upscale experience, visit Café Bateel, known for its gourmet dates and excellent coffee, dogs are welcome in their outdoor terrace.
Dog Friendly Activities in Riyadh
Riyadh offers a range of activities you and your furry companion can enjoy. Take your dog for a refreshing walk at Wadi Hanifah, a beautiful valley with scenic trails and lush greenery. It's an excellent spot for some outdoor exercise and quality time with your pet. For a taste of the city's history, visit Masmak Fortress, a cultural landmark where leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor areas so you can explore the fortress grounds and learn about Riyadh's rich heritage.
The Social Pup is a concept store in Saudi Arabia that offers various services for dog owners. These services include veterinary care, grooming, boarding, daycare, and dog training. They also provide a backyard play area and an onsite cafe where the owners can relax while their dogs are playing or being groomed. If your dog loves socializing, visit the incredible Dog Park at the King Abdulaziz Historical Center, specifically designed for dogs to play and interact with each other.
Dog Friendly Hotels & Accommodations in Riyadh
Finding dog-friendly accommodations in Riyadh is becoming easier. Braira Hotel Riyadh and Voco Riyadh are two hotels that offer pet-friendly rooms and amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your furry friend. If you prefer staying in luxury, consider Riyadh Marriott Hotel, which welcomes dogs and provides a pet-friendly atmosphere. For more options, check out Roch Dog, the world's largest directory of certified dog friendly hotels, regionally ranked using the world's first dog-friendly standard and certification process for hotels.
Dog Walks in Riyadh at Prayer Time
Riyadh is evolving into a vibrant and dog-friendly destination; this guide will evolve over time to include new spots and places to visit, so you can enjoy Riyadh's dog-friendly parks, cafés, activities, and accommodations, ensuring a delightful stay for you and your four-legged friend when you visit the historic city of Riyadh.
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