What to do in Riyadh

Riyadh is welcoming a new name in the global art and design scene. Known for its high-profile exhibitions in Moscow, ARTDOM is making its Gulf debut in Saudi Arabia with a two-day event on November 11-12, 2025 at Saraj Venue, located on Prince Mohammad Bin Salman Road. This marks a new chapter in the Kingdom’s cultural growth, bringing together 55 international exhibitors, many of whom are showcasing their work in the region for the first time.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ARTDOM EXPO (@artdom_design) The event will highlight a carefully curated mix of...

After the successful launch this spring, Downtown Design Riyadh will return for its second edition next February, promising even more excitement and inspiration. The Middle East's leading fair for high-quality and contemporary design will take place from February 3 to 6, 2026, at JAX District. While the full lineup for the 2026 edition hasn’t been revealed yet, it’s sure to be another incredible showcase of international and local talent. The first edition included big names like Saint Louis, Visionnaire, Scarlet Splendour, Natuzzi, and Huda Lighting, as well as some incredible Saudi designers. View this post on Instagram A post shared...

Egyptian singer and songwriter Bayou is making his way to Saudi Arabia this July, bringing his unique bilingual sound to live audiences in two major cities. The artist will perform in Jeddah on 17 July at Onyx Arena, followed by a show in Riyadh on 18 July as part of the MDLBeast Festival. This marks a special return for Bayou, born Adham Bayoumi, who spent part of his early life in Jeddah before moving to Dubai. His music blends Arabic and English, shaped by influences from both the Middle East and the UK, where he also lived. Bayou first gained...

Get ready for one of the biggest wrestling events of the year as WWE Crown Jewel 2024 makes its epic return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia! The action-packed event is scheduled for November 2 at the Mohammed Abdo Arena. If you're a wrestling fanatic or simply love a good showdown, WWE Crown Jewel 2024 is an event you won’t want to miss. This year's edition brings together the best from WWE's Raw and SmackDown rosters for jaw-dropping matchups and plenty of drama. Main Event Highlights   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lani | Liv Morgan And...

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...

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...

If you’ve been swept up in the global Labubu craze, you’re not alone. These little creatures with pointy ears and playful expressions have taken over everything from toy stores to social media feeds. And now, Riyadh has introduced its very own twist on the trend: Lanunu, a pocket-sized collectible you can take with you everywhere. WHOA TEA & Desserts, a popular café in Riyadh, is behind this creative launch. Order any beverage from their menu, and you’ll receive a Lanunu keychain as a complimentary treat. It’s small, portable, and made to clip right onto your bag or keys.    ...

Riyadh Season is returning with a bang, with new events being announced every day. An exciting addition is the UFC Power Slap, which will be making its debut in Saudi Arabia on February 1, 2025. What is Power Slap? If you’re unfamiliar with Power Slap, the name says it all. This sport is all about power and precision, where two competitors go head-to-head in a series of slaps—yes, slaps. The goal is simple: deliver the hardest, most accurate slap to knock down your opponent. But there’s more to it than just brute strength. Each match is structured and follows specific...

Saudi Arabia is making big moves in the luxury fashion world, and Riyadh is at the center of it all. With the city’s fashion scene rapidly expanding — especially with Riyadh Fashion Week gaining momentum — major brands are taking notice. Now, Balenciaga has opened its largest flagship store in the world, right in the heart of the Saudi capital. The new store is located on the Ground Floor of Solitaire Mall, between Christian Dior and Bottega Veneta stores, making it a fitting home for the high-end fashion house. Covering 483 square meters, the space embraces Balenciaga’s signature industrial aesthetic....

Get ready to witness one of the biggest music events in the world as MDLBEAST's Soundstorm Festival returns to Riyadh this year. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience on December 14, 15, and 16 as the city comes alive with pulsating beats, electrifying performances, and an atmosphere filled with pure musical euphoria. This extraordinary festival, which debuted in 2019, has consistently pushed boundaries and created a true haven for music lovers in the Middle East. Looking back at the previous years' events, Soundstorm has boasted an impressive lineup that has left attendees in awe. From chart-topping international acts to...