About Riyadh
Riyadh is a major metropolitan area located in Saudi Arabia, in the Riyadh Province region. According to the latest available data (2026), the population of Riyadh is approximately 7,009,100 residents, making it the largest city in Saudi Arabia.
Globally, Riyadh ranks #103 among the world's most populated cities. With over 5 million residents, Riyadh is considered a major metropolitan hub in the region.
It is also the capital of the Riyadh Province and the centre of the Riyadh Governorate. Located on the eastern bank of Wadi Hanifa, the current form of the metropolis largely emerged in the 1950s as an offshoot of the 18th century walled town following the dismantling of its defensive fortifications.
Riyadh City Statistics
| City | Riyadh |
| Country |  Saudi Arabia |
| Population | 7,009,100 |
| Global Rank | #103 |
| Rank in Saudi Arabia | #1 of 33 cities |
| City Category | major metropolitan area |
| Region | Riyadh Province |
| Latitude | 24.65 |
| Longitude | 46.71 |
| Data Year | 2026 |
Riyadh Overview
Riyadh is a major metropolitan area in Saudi Arabia, situated in the Riyadh Province area. With a population of 7,009,100 people, it represents approximately 41.3% of the total urban population in Saudi Arabia.
As one of the largest cities in the world, Riyadh is a significant hub for commerce, culture, and transportation. The city's metropolitan area extends well beyond its official boundaries, encompassing numerous satellite cities and suburban areas.
Population Comparison
To put Riyadh's population of 7,009,100 into perspective:
- Riyadh's population is comparable to that of small European countries like Norway or Ireland.
- The city has more than 7 million inhabitants, making it a significant urban center globally.
- It ranks #1 among all cities in Saudi Arabia.
Where is Riyadh Located?
Riyadh is located in Saudi Arabia, in the Riyadh Province region, at coordinates 24.65° latitude and 46.71° longitude. Riyadh sits in the subtropics, typically enjoying warm temperatures year-round.
Nearby Cities
Other Cities in Saudi Arabia
Largest Cities in Saudi Arabia
| # | City | Population |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mecca | 2,427,924 |
| 2 | Medina | 1,411,599 |
| 3 | Sultanah | 946,697 |
| 4 | Dammam | 903,000 |
| 5 | Tabuk | 886,036 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the population of Riyadh?
The population of Riyadh is approximately 7,009,100 residents according to the latest available data (2026).
Where is Riyadh located?
Riyadh is located in Saudi Arabia at approximately 24.65° latitude and 46.71° longitude.
Is Riyadh one of the largest cities in Saudi Arabia?
With a population of 7,009,100, Riyadh is one of the major urban areas in Saudi Arabia. It ranks #1 out of 33 cities in the country.
