Al Musawkaf Market

Saudi Arabia


Built on the site of an important traditional Najd market still functioning up until the 1970s, the Al Musawkaf market is set in a beautiful mock-castle. The open courtyard, with its tall date palms and wooden loungers for enjoying tea and coffee, is an excellent place to recline in the evenings, as the 50 or so stores selling local handicrafts open for business. It's set across 5000 sq metres, and there's also a small museum and exhibition space for cultural events throughout the year.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Saudi Arabia attractions

1. Unaiza Date Market

4.12 MILES

The world's second-largest date market might forever be in the shadow of its illustrious neighbour in Buraydah, but it is still a great place to witness…

2. Al Mudaifar Mosque

14.99 MILES

Surrounded by a forest of palms, this quaint little Najd mud mosque, with its tall round minaret and engraved wood door, truly evokes the Saudi Arabia of…

3. As Sabbakh Date Forest

15.14 MILES

Go wandering in Buraydah's historic date-growing neighbourhood. As you walk in the shade of tall palms, the desert grass brushing your feet, local…

4. Dates City

15.43 MILES

Home of the world's biggest date festival, this is the largest date market on earth, and the complex resembles a small airport. At the height of the…

5. Buraydah Museum

17.97 MILES

Buraydah's city museum isn't one you are going to go out of your way to find. It's designed like a mini Najd fort, and has displays dominated by photos of…