Wondering what to do after work this week?
Head down to the newly reopened Al Masmak Palace Museum. That’s right, Riyadh’s beloved museum has opened its doors to the public once more following comprehensive renovations that rehabilitated and restored the historic structure.
The new look of the museum comes with an upgraded infrastructure to meet modern museum standards.
So, get ready to unlock the mysteries of the past once more at the iconic museum. Here is everything to know about the reopened space.
Al Masmak Palace Museum reopens 2025
Al Masmak Palace is a landmark heritage site in the heart of Riyadh and one of the few remaining structures from the city’s early days. Built in 1865 during the rule of Imam Abdullah bin Faisal bin Turki, it was designed as a defensive fortress, featuring thick walls, narrow gun slits, and a single fortified entrance.
In 1995, the stone castle was turned into a museum for everyone to learn about the Kingdom’s history.
Al Masmak Palace Museum location
An beloved landmark in Riyadh, the castle has tall and proud on Al Thumairi street since its conceptualization.
Al Masmak Palace Museum hours
Looking for an after-school activity with the young ones? The museum is open from Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 9pm, 4pm to 8pm on Friday, and 9am to 8pm on Saturday.
Al Masmak Palace Museum tickets
The museum does not charge entry and or exhibit tickets. So, you can explore the fascinating history of the Kingdom for free.
Al Masmak Palace Museum what to expect
A series of exhibition halls brings to life the story of Riyadh’s recapture and the Kingdom’s unification, featuring scale models, historic photos, official documents, and interactive audiovisual displays—all designed to inform and captivate visitors of every age.
The reopening highlights the Museums Commission’s dedication to preserving Saudi heritage, raising public awareness, and providing immersive cultural experiences that honor the Kingdom’s rich history and national identity.
More cool things happening in Saudi
If you are on the hunt for awesome things to do in the in next few months, then you are in luck. The AlUla Moments calendar has been released. There is also the Esports World Cup which has released a brand new social media channel to keep up with the action. There is also the Riyadh Comedy Festival for those laugh out loud moments.
Free. Sun-Thu 8am-9pm, Fri 4pm-8pm, Sat 9am-8pm. spa.gov.sa (011 411 0091).
