RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital and main financial hub, is on a desert plateau in the country’s center. Business district landmarks include the 302m-high Kingdom Centre, with a sky bridge connecting 2 towers, and 267m-high Al Faisaliah Centre, with a glass-globe summit.

Where Saudi’s past and future meet

Riyadh’s blend of medieval and millennial makes for a beguiling cultural union — one where Arabia’s first roots can be traced, and where its bold future can be envisioned. The city’s fascinating, centuries-old history can be found within its atmospheric souqs, compelling museums and ancient architecture, but it’s also a modern metropolis, with glittering high-rises and a burgeoning contemporary art scene. The winter months are an ideal time to visit Riyadh. Although average high temperatures in the summer can reach 44 degrees C, the top temps in December and January are in the low 20s.