Set in the heart of Saudi Arabia, Al-Kharj is a vibrant city surrounded by date palm plantations, citrus orchards and dairy farms. It's a fascinating place to discover history, culture and Bedouin traditions and a great base for exploring Saudi Arabia’s vibrant capital.
Things to do in Al Kharj
Al-Kharj is anchored by the magnificent King Abdulaziz Palace. Completed in 1945, the luxury residence is surrounded by emerald green gardens and sun-dappled courtyards. Today the palace houses a cultural museum that's open to the public. Highlights include historic royal garments, local handicrafts and photos of King Abdulaziz.
Home to a host of exotic animals, the Al-Kharj Zoo is a favourite with families. You can get face-to-face with giraffes, monkeys and birds of prey. Make a day of it and enjoy a picnic in the grassy grounds.
For a luxurious night out, dine at the Al-Kharj Water Tower and Revolving Restaurant. The tower is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and is topped by a high-end restaurant. It slowly rotates, giving you 360-degree views over the city.
Head to the outskirts of the city to find a pair of deep wells that were once used to irrigate the city. According to local folklore, they were carved into the ground by two fallen stars.
Getting around Al Kharj
Al-Kharj is serviced local buses and taxis. The drive to Riyadh takes around one hour. Local trains run between Al-Kharj and nearby cities like Riyadh and Dammam.