Riyadh
Saudi Arabia · Middle East
The water
180 mg/LHard
Source: Riyadh Water Treatment Plants study · Published figure. Hardness counts dissolved calcium and magnesium in the water; it is the number your hair meets in the shower.
What hard water does to hair
Hair washed here picks up a mineral film that flattens shine and makes lengths catch and knot. Colour-treated hair shows it first. Chelating (detox) washes belong in the rhythm, not as an occasional rescue.
The washing routine for Riyadh
Plan on a chelating (detox) wash every fourth wash or so, gentle shampoo for the washes between, and thorough conditioning each time. The rhythm, kept up, prevents the dullness and tangling this water otherwise causes.
Climate, from recent records (Open-Meteo, ERA5 2015-2024): July is the warmest month, averaging 43°C by day, and humidity peaks in December at about 46% on average. Day to night swings reach 14°C, which dries hair out between washes; the plan adds moisture and a sealing leave-in when a stop spans those months. In the hot months, sun and sweat do as much damage as the water: shade, a hat and a rinse after swimming carry the routine.
Local note: Treated groundwater blended with Jubail desalinated water; plant nets vary.
Plugs and power for your tools
Sockets: Type G. Supply: 230 V, 60 Hz.
A 120 V only dryer or styler (North American) will burn out on this supply, and a plug adapter does not change voltage. Check the label for dual voltage (100-240 V) before you plug in.
Plug, voltage and frequency: IEC World Plugs and national standards.
Plan Riyadh properly
The trip planner turns this water profile into a wash plan for your hair type, a chosen kit and a packing list, month by month.