What to do in Saudi Arabia - Latest News

Riyadh’s public transportation system continues to grow with the latest addition to the Orange Line (Line 3) of the Riyadh Metro. Hassan bin Thabit Street, officially opened by the Public Transport Authority, is the newest stop on one of the capital’s most important transit corridors. The Orange Line stretches 41 kilometres, running from Jeddah Road in the west to the Second Eastern Ring Road near Khashm Al Aan in the east. The new stop is located between An Naseem and Khashm Al Aan (terminus). The newly opened station is expected to: Improve daily commute options for residents and visitors Relieve...

Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has introduced a new policy that allows individuals with expired visit visas to extend their stay for final departure — a move aimed at regulating residency and simplifying the exit process for those who have overstayed their visas. The new initiative came into effect on 1 Muharram 1447 AH (June 26, 2025). It grants a 30-day grace period to all types of visit visa holders whose visas have expired. The extension is strictly for the purpose of final departure and does not permit any further stay or employment in the Kingdom. To make...

The esports scene in Saudi Arabia is getting a major boost. True Gamers, a leading name in global esports cafés with more than 160 clubs worldwide, is coming to Riyadh — and not with just one location, but two. Already a well-established name in regions like Belarus, Russia, and the UAE, True Gamers is known for its futuristic design, tournament-ready setups, and dedicated zones for every kind of gamer. Now, the Saudi capital is next in line as the brand accelerates its expansion across the GCC.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by True Esports...

Saudi Arabia has announced a significant shake-up in its retail landscape. A new regulation bans small grocery stores (baqalas) and kiosks from selling a specific list of products, including tobacco, fresh produce, meat, and dates, as part of a broader effort to streamline and formalise the country’s retail sector. The directive, issued by Majed Al Hogail, Minister of Municipalities and Housing, is effective immediately. However, existing small grocers will have six months to adjust and comply with the new requirements. Products Now Banned from Sale in Small Grocery Stores: Regular and electronic cigarettes Shisha products Fruits and vegetables Dates Meat...

As Saudi Arabia gears up to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, Jeddah is making room for a new wave of hospitality with two hotels set to open in 2028 at King Abdullah Sports City (KASC) — Kimpton Jeddah KASC and EVEN Hotels Jeddah KASC. Both are part of the IHG Hotels & Resorts family and promise distinct experiences for travellers heading to the Red Sea city. Kimpton Jeddah KASC: A Stylish Social Hub With 330 rooms, Kimpton Jeddah KASC is designed as a modern, vibrant space that brings together contemporary style and local character. Guests can expect: An expansive...

A new addition is joining Jeddah’s growing roster of high-end dining venues. Lola Brasserie, opening on 4 July in Al Khalidiyyah, is the latest concept from the Leylaty Group, known for its upscale hospitality projects in the Kingdom. This new brasserie aims to deliver a distinctly French atmosphere that balances classic elegance with Mediterranean warmth. Inspired by both Parisian style and the relaxed charm of southern France, the venue offers a setting that is both refined and inviting.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lola Brasserie (@lolabrasserieksa) The restaurant’s design reflects its dual identity....

The region of AlUla is introducing a new public transport project that aims to improve visitor access to some of Saudi Arabia’s most important heritage sites. The AlUla tramway, expected to launch operational services in the second half of 2027, will become the world’s longest battery-powered, catenary-free tramway. The tramway will cover 22.4 kilometres and include 17 stations, each featuring a distinct architectural design. The route follows the historic path of the former Hijaz railway. It will connect five of AlUla’s most important heritage sites: AlUla Old Town Dadan Jabal Ikmah Nabataean Horizon Hegra Historical City (a UNESCO World Heritage...

The GCC Railway is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the region — a 2,117-kilometre high-speed rail network set to connect key cities across the six Gulf Cooperation Council countries. While the vision is bold, bringing it to life is proving to be a complex and multifaceted undertaking. According to SYSTRA, a global expert in mobility solutions and a key player in the Etihad Rail development, cross-border high-speed rail (HSR) systems come with layers of logistical, technical, and political complexity. HSR networks promise plenty — shorter travel times, economic growth, environmental benefits, and tighter...

Get ready Jeddah, the party’s just getting started! ONYX Arena, the city’s newest and boldest concert venue, is kicking off its debut with a bang. As part of Jeddah Season and powered by the entertainment legends at MDLBEAST, this summer lineup is stacked with global headliners, fresh regional acts, and non-stop vibes. Think epic lights, booming beats, and thousands of fans all vibing under one roof, ONYX Arena is here to take your concert nights to a whole new level. If you love music, energy, and big-stage magic, this is the place to be. MDLBEAST ONYX Arena Concerts Lineup Week...

Riyadh is gearing up for an electrifying summer as the Esports World Cup 2025, formerly known as Gamers8, takes center stage at The Venue in Riyadh City. From July 18th to August 7th, this grand event will unite the world's top gamers for an unforgettable experience. But that's not all, the excitement doesn't stop when the gaming ends. Thanks to a collaboration with MDLBeast, the Esports World Cup has introduced AFT_r, a series of spectacular after-show concerts. Every Thursday night, visitors can look forward to thrilling performances from renowned artists. Here's what you can expect each week. Esports World Cup...