A day trip to Thadiq and its neighboring villages

Thadiq is a small town north of Riyadh known for its natural beauty and traditional charm.

July 2025 : A group of six cars set out on a weekend road trip to explore local landmarks, enjoy scenic landscapes, and visit the nearby villages of Al Bir, Thadiq, and Huraymila to experience the culture and hospitality of the region.

"Doorways appear in many different styles, shapes, and use of ornamentation, serving to communicate an owner’s wealth and lifestyle to the community"(Al-Anbar, 1999)

Thadiq is a lovely town to visit and offers lots of great photo opportunities.

The primary materials used to build this house are sun-dried mud bricks and mud. The red mud is worked into a plastering material used to smear interior and exterior walls.

Najdi architecture is characterized by its distinctive red-earthy appearance, which primarily stems from the extensive use of mudbrick and mud plaster made from local clay, water, and fibers such as straw.

In both Thadiq and Al Bir, vibrant and enthusiastic renovations are taking place, breathing new life into the streets and buildings. These dynamic improvements not only enhance the local charm but also attract tourists, inviting them to experience the rich culture and unique offerings of these regional gems.

A brief stop along the way to visit Mereha Cave, a weather-formed phenomenon. There was evidence ( flood lights and fire pits) that this site is well used during the winters months by locals.

For more reading on Najdi Architecture see

[1] Architectural values behind the formation of heritage houses as a tool for promoting cultural identity in Saudi Arabia Latifa AlObailan & Abeer Alawad

Department of Interior Design and Furniture, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia

or

[2] Traditional Najdi Settlement Architectural Elements: Harmonizing Function, Aesthetics, and Shared Socio-Cultural Meaning Mohammed Mashary Alnaim

Department of Architectural Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia