What to do in Riyadh - Latest News

Diriyah Art Futures (DAF) has launched its first-ever exhibition, Art Must Be Artificial: Perspectives of AI in the Visual Arts, open to the public until 15 February 2025. This milestone marks the debut of the first New Media Art hub in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, a project spearheaded by the Museums Commission under Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture. DAF aims to equip the next generation of artists, technologists, and scholars with the tools to tackle emerging creative challenges and reshape the artistic landscape.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by @dafmoc...

For many in Saudi Arabia, Wednesday nights were once a ritual of staying up late to watch wrestling on Channel 2. Now, instead of reliving those moments through a screen, fans will witness the adrenaline and drama firsthand as the WWE Royal Rumble makes its historic debut in Riyadh in January 2026. This marks a significant milestone: the first-ever Royal Rumble held outside North America and the 39th edition of this iconic wrestling event. The matches will become a centerpiece of the Riyadh Season, a celebrated series of cultural and entertainment events. The announcement came through Turki Alalshikh, head of...

Riyadh continues to establish itself as a culinary destination in Saudi Arabia, welcoming internationally acclaimed dining concepts from around the world. One of the newest additions is Isabel Mayfair, which has made its Middle East debut in the bustling As Sulimaniyah district. Designed by the acclaimed David T’kint of DTK Studio, Isabel Mayfair combines the sophistication of an art-deco mansion with the glamour of the Gatsby era. The venue is divided into three distinct spaces: a refined dining room, a light-filled conservatory, and a speakeasy bar tucked discreetly behind a hidden door.     View this post on Instagram  ...

Riyadh food lovers, prepare your taste buds! The celebrated Persian eatery Berenjak is heading from the streets of London to the vibrant dining scene of Saudi Arabia this February. Nestled in the upscale Via Riyadh, this pop-up marks an exciting addition to the Middle East’s growing culinary landscape. Berenjak, whose name is inspired by the cheerful snack of toasted rice often enjoyed at Persian funfairs, brings a fresh take on Tehran’s traditional eateries. The restaurant transforms the concept of a humble Iranian "hole-in-the-wall" into a dynamic dining experience that captures the richness of Persian culture and cuisine. The Berenjak story...

Indoor skiing enthusiasts, rejoice! Infinite Ski, Dubai’s renowned indoor ski facility, is branching out to Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Jeddah. With its innovative approach to skiing and snowboarding, Infinite Ski is set to bring this thrilling experience to new audiences across the Middle East. Located in Dubai’s Al Quoz district, Infinite Ski is a go-to destination for beginners and seasoned skiers. Its Maxxtracks slopes, developed in the Netherlands, mimic the sensation of snow but don’t require bulky winter gear. Instead, you can ski in complete comfort while the adjustable speed and incline cater to your skill level — whether you’re...

Lace up your running shoes — the Riyadh Marathon is back for another thrilling edition! Scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2025, this premier running event invites participants of all skill levels to take on one of four exhilarating race courses. Whether you’re an experienced marathoner or a casual jogger, there’s a challenge just for you. Race Categories for Riyadh Marathon 2025 The Riyadh Marathon is an annual highlight organized by the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) and the Ministry of Sport. Designed to be inclusive, the event welcomes participants of all fitness levels, encouraging a vibrant community spirit. This...

Riyadh metro just took a major step forward with the opening of five new stations across the Blue and Orange Lines. These additions are set to make traveling around the city smoother, connecting key cultural sites, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods. Let’s take a closer look at these new stops and what they offer. New Stations on the Blue Line (Line 1) National Museum Station A standout among the new stations, National Museum Station is the second-largest hub in the Riyadh metro network and a central transfer point where the Blue and Green Lines intersect. Located in the Al-Batha district,...

Food lovers in Riyadh have a new destination to explore: La Bourgeoise, the French bistro bar that has recently opened its doors at Drop Avenue Plaza in An Nakheel. This inviting spot offers a delightful mix of classic French pastries, creative mocktails, and an ambiance that makes every visit memorable. La Bourgeoise has redefined tea time with its selection of freshly brewed teas paired with exquisite pastries. Each pastry is crafted with precision and artistry, making them almost too beautiful to eat. The experience is ideal for an indulgent break or a relaxed gathering with friends. If you're a fan...

Riyadh is set to welcome a remarkable guest this January — Sir Anthony Hopkins, the legendary Oscar-winning actor. But this time, he’s not here to act. Instead, he’s bringing a different kind of artistry to the stage: his music. Hopkins, known worldwide for his iconic roles in film, is also a passionate composer. For Riyadh Season, he has crafted original musical compositions that will be performed in a special concert titled “Life is a Dream.” The prestigious Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Matthew Freeman, will bring these compositions to life.     View this post on Instagram   A...

Diriyah Season is in full swing until March 2025, promising a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and art in Ad-Diriyah, the birthplace of Saudi Arabia. This annual event offers a wide range of activities for visitors to explore, from historical exhibits and interactive workshops to fine dining and outdoor experiences. The 2024-25 theme, “Entertain Your Cultural Curiosity,” invites attendees to connect with Diriyah’s rich 600-year heritage and enjoy a diverse program that blends tradition with modernity. Here’s a detailed look at what’s planned so far: Imam Turki bin Abdullah Exhibition Running until January 11, 2025, this exhibition highlights the life...