Prince William arrived in Saudi Arabia just as the sun was setting over its capital, Riyadh.

Stepping off his Royal Air Force jet onto a luxurious purple carpet that incorporates traditional Sadu weaving, the prince was greeted by the Deputy Governor of Riyadh, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz.

The pair chatted amiably as they headed inside the Royal Terminal, on what is William’s first official trip to Saudi. 

He then travelled to At-Turaif, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Diriyah where he was given a private tour by the country’s leader, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, known by his initials MBS. 

Built in the late mid-18th century, it is considered one of the largest integrated mud-brick cities in the world.

After a 25-minute look inside, the pair stood for photographs on polished sandstone slabs with the atmospherically-lit mud fort looming behind them.

The highlight of their walking tour was the crown prince showing William the Arabian Horse gallery, showcasing the heritage of purebred Arabian horses and featuring a life-size sculpture of Turfa, a mare presented by King Abdul Aziz to Britain’s King George VI as a coronation gift in 1937.

The two princes then enjoyed a private audience, followed by an intimate dinner.