What to do in Riyadh

Winter in Riyadh is nothing short of magical. From lively festivals and cultural landmarks to serene natural escapes, the city offers a number of activities to make your winter unforgettable. Whether you're looking for thrilling adventures, cultural experiences, or peaceful retreats, Riyadh has it all. Here's your ultimate guide to winter in the Saudi capital. Dive Into Riyadh Season 2024 Riyadh Season, Saudi Arabia’s signature annual festival, is back for another spectacular edition. Running from October 12, 2024, into early 2025, this world-class festival offers a dazzling mix of entertainment, culture, sports, and more. Here are some exciting things to...

Riyadh is quickly becoming the go-to spot for entertainment, and the city has no plans to slow down anytime soon. The latest addition is The Pool Club, opening this November in the Diplomatic Quarter at Al Safarat. This new venue comes from the same team behind MDLBeast, in partnership with attaché. As expected, The Pool Club promises to be more than just a poolside hangout. This exclusive, members-only venue blends wellness, design, and culture, creating a space that’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed but sophisticated atmosphere. Expect a curated experience that includes cabana lounges, poolside dining, and a...

Get ready for a weekend of electrifying performances as MDLBeast Soundstorm 2024 gears up to take over Riyadh from 12th to 14th December. With a star-studded lineup that just keeps getting better, this year’s festival promises to be an unforgettable musical journey in the heart of the Saudi desert. Among the newest additions to the lineup are none other than Tyler, The Creator and Latto, two powerhouse performers who are set to bring their unique styles and energy to the stage. Tyler, The Creator is a trailblazing artist known for his boundary-pushing music and dynamic performances. Known for his high-energy...

If you’ve been on the lookout for a new spot to grab a bite in Riyadh, here’s something you’re going to love. The popular UK café, Apple Butter, has opened its doors in the KAFD district. This is the perfect spot to fuel up your day, whether you're a breakfast lover, a pasta fan, or someone with a serious sweet tooth. Apple Butter’s menu brings familiar tastes with an extraordinary twist: try their Chicken Burrata Sandwich or Wagyu Beef Burger, and you'll get the vibe. Craving something sweet? You can’t go wrong with their pancakes, topped generously with whipped cream...

In line with national measures to enhance public safety and better manage traffic, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has introduced new regulations that redefine where food trucks can operate. The decision prohibits food trucks from setting up in residential neighbourhoods to ensure a more organised and secure urban environment. Under the new rules, mobile food vendors are also not permitted to park near traffic lights, road intersections, or the entrances and exits of main and secondary roads. They must also avoid high-traffic areas and maintain a minimum distance of 10 metres from fuel stations. The ministry has also...

This winter, Riyadh will host a truly historic weekend! WWE Royal Rumble is coming to Saudi Arabia for the first time ever, and this one is extra special as it’s the first time this event is being held outside of North America. January 31 promises to become the biggest day of the year as King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) will turn into the battleground for this legendary showdown. The ring will be packed with WWE’s biggest superstars, all competing for a chance to headline WrestleMania. Before the main event, WWE SmackDown will kick off the action on January 30, so...

Sneaker Con is heading back to Riyadh in 2026. The global event that brings together collectors, traders, and fans, will land at BLVD City from February 26 to 28. Part of Riyadh Season, it’s shaping up to be three days where sneakers take over the city. What started in 2008 as a small meetup between sneaker fans has turned into a worldwide movement. Sneaker Con now travels through more than 30 cities every year, connecting people who see sneakers as more than just shoes. More than 150 vendors from the US, the Middle East, and beyond will line up their...

If you're a fan of classic British comfort food, then you're in for a real treat because The Mayfair Chippy is officially coming in Riyadh! Known for its mouthwatering seafood, the brand is making its way to the Kingdom this summer, bringing with it the British charms and classic fish and chips. The restaurant's menu features a wide range of British favorites, from delicious sandwiches like Fish Finger Butty (fish fingers with pickles and tartar sauce) to hearty classics like Shepherd’s Pie, scotch egg, and fried haddock with mushy peas. And, of course, you can’t go wrong with the crispy,...

This August, Terhal is making its return to Diriyah. Hosted by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, the second edition of this immersive theatrical production will run from August 4 to 25, 2025 at Mayadeen, Diriyah, one of Riyadh’s most historic venues. The production blends theatrical storytelling with visuals, using lighting and special effects to bring Saudi Arabia’s landscapes and history to life. From mountains and deserts to bustling cities and quiet villages, Terhal paints a vivid portrait of the Kingdom’s geographic and cultural richness.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by وزارة الثقافة MOC (@mocsaudi)...

Riyadh isn’t the same city it was a few years ago. The skyline keeps changing, new districts are taking shape, and global names are lining up to claim their spot in the capital. Now, another major player is stepping in. The Riyadh EDITION is officially on its way to the KSA capital. There’s no confirmed location or opening date. The Riyadh EDITION will become the third property for the brand in Saudi Arabia, joining The Jeddah EDITION and The Red Sea EDITION coming to Shura Island. Each of those hotels brought a different energy to its city. At the Red...