Saudi Arabia - Riyadh - Al Faisaliah Center

Riyadh is the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia. It is also the capital of Riyadh Province, and belongs to the historical regions of Nejd and Al-Yamama.

The name Riyadh is derived from the plural of the Arabic word روضة rawdha, which means "garden," particularly those formed in the desert after rains. Riyadh has for more than 1500 years been a fertile area set in the heartland of the Arabian Peninsula. The settlement was historically famous for its Palm Trees and Dates and Orchards. The modern name was first applied to only certain parts of the settlement where orchards predominated. Gradually the name was used for the entire settlement.

The Al Faisaliyah Center is a commercial skyscraper located in the business district of Riyadh. It is the second tallest building in Saudi Arabia after the Kingdom Center. Immediately below it an outside viewing deck; at ground level, there is a shopping center with major world brands. The Al Faisaliyah Center is about 267 meters high and consists of 44 floors.

The 4 corner beams of the al faisaliyah center join at the top above a golden ball. The design is said to be based on that of a ballpoint pen. Inside the golden ball is a luxury revolving restaurant. There is a clear view of Saudi Arabia's other skyscraper, the Kingdom Center, from the Al Faisaliyah Center and the two buildings create a silhouetted skyline in the evening. The tower was designed by UK based architects Foster and Partners and engineers Buro Happold. It is part of an Al Faisaliyah Complex, which consists of a hotel, the tower, and two other buildings. The tower also has several restaurants like 11a and the Globe and has also a Cigar lounge at the top floor.