Riyadh - HIM2

Riyadh

Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, home to one of the most conservative cultures on earth. Despite public photography being somewhat difficult, over time I will be attempting to highlight some images illustrating some of the main characteristics and features of this unique city. However it is no accident there are limited people shots on this gallery!

This gallery is a project in progress and will be building it up gradually so be sure to return!

The colorful & elegant Saudi head-dress worn by men .... ....the cotton red & white chequred head cover is called a shmagh and can come in different colors, the white cap worn underneath is to prevent the shmagh from slipping and is called a tagiyyah....the ringed black wreath, called igal, is put on top to secure both onto the head.
Sunset over Riyadh looking at the Norman Foster designed Al Faisaliyyah building.
One of many shmagh (male Gulf Arab headdress) shops in Riyadh ....to the uninitiated, these shmaghs look pretty much the same; but they're not! There's a difference in the shade of red (from bright red to an almost purplish red), .. as well as the stripes pattern running parallel to the edge. Prices range from about $25 to $65 each depending on brand, material, size and stripes pattern. Bottom row 3rd right is a $65 Dunhill!
The Kingdom Tower, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. An award winning piece of architecture and one of the most striking high rise buildings in the world ... photographed on a rare overcast day; the subtle blue grey glass blending into the overcast grey cloud cover.

A modern dwelling in Diriyyah ... the owner sensitively using simple form, Riyadh stone and appropriate landscaping to blend in and harmonise with the surroundings... the curved wall of the dwelling reflecting the meandering path of the old Diriyyah wall seen in the distance center-left..... .....to appreciate the architectural treatment more, best to also view the other Diriyyah shot on the gallery showing the old wall more clearly.

The newly opened Centria building on Olaya street. Riyadh.