Riyadh Season is back for 2023, and this time, it’s promising to be bigger and better than ever before.
This annual winter festival, which kicks off in October and spans over several months, has earned its reputation as one of the world’s largest winter entertainment extravaganzas.
It’s a celebration of culture and heritage, capturing the essence of Saudi Arabia from its Najdi traditions to its present-day dynamism.
If you haven’t experienced this dazzling winter festival in Saudi Arabia’s vibrant capital, now is the perfect time to pack your bags and head to Riyadh.
When Does Riyadh Season 2023 Begin?
Riyadh Season 2023 started with a bang on October 28th. The grand opening ceremony, held at the brand-new Kingdom Arena, was a spectacular sight with vibrant red, green, and purple lights.
The event featured electrifying performances by Becky G and the highly anticipated Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou match-up.
Several zones, including Boulevard City, Via Riyadh, Suwaidi Park, and Ramla Terraza, are already open for booking, with more to be unveiled soon.
Exploring Riyadh Season’s Zones
Riyadh Season 2023 introduces an array of captivating zones, each offering a unique and exciting experience:
Wonder Garden
An enchanting amusement park offering a whimsical and imaginative experience. Divided into three zones, it promises unique rides, pink flamingos, and areas filled with beautiful butterflies and exquisite trees.
Boulevard World
This is the place to experience diverse cultures. Immerse yourself in a global cultural experience that spans art, sports, and much more at Boulevard World.
Kingdom Arena
This multi-purpose arena designed for concerts, sports events, and more was constructed in just 60 days and can accommodate over 40,000 people. It will be home to many exciting events and shows throughout the season, so keep an eye out for announcements!
Food Truck Park
The Riyadh Food Truck Festival brings together the best food trucks from around the world in one place, providing a variety of flavors to suit every palate.
Boulevard City
Located in the north of Riyadh, this is one of the most significant destinations of the Riyadh Season. It features a multitude of events, including gardens, a dance fountain, local and global restaurants, and shops. The Boulevard Square area houses cafes and theaters, making it a hub of art and entertainment.
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Ramla Terraza
Ramla Terraza is a lifestyle destination boasting four upscale restaurants: Clap, Iris Café, Brute, and Jones the Grocer which will be transforming into an exciting Riyadh Season Zone this year. Visitors can savor an array of culinary delights in a vibrant and upscale setting.
VIA Riyadh
This complex, designed in the Salmani style, includes a five-star hotel, luxury cinema, exclusive boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a perfect place to savor exquisite cuisine and indulge in a luxurious ambiance.
Riyadh Zoo
Bigger and better than ever before, the Riyadh Zoo is a must-visit this season. It offers six sub-area experiences that take visitors on a journey through the forests of Africa and showcase the endangered red panda, a first in the Middle East.
Roshn Front
An extraordinary urban experience that reimagines how people work, play, dine, shop, and share space in Riyadh, Roshn Front is a hub of connection, curiosity, and innovation and is anticipated to be one of the most popular spots during Riyadh Season.
The Groves
The Groves return for another season, this time in a permanent venue with an innovative and captivating experience. It engages all the senses through music, food, entertainment, ambiance, and fragrance. You can find restaurants, parks, markets, and many more exciting things at The Grove nestled amidst nature and greenery.
Souq Al Awaleen
This traditional Najdi market immerses visitors in the charm of a bygone era. Explore the souq, enjoy performances and events, and shop for traditional goods as you delve into the region’s rich past.
Al-Suwaidi Park
Al-Suwaidi Park will host seven different cultures in seven weeks during the Riyadh Season, offering visitors a unique entertainment experience. Enjoy a journey filled with food, music, entertainment shows, and folk dances representing different countries.
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Riyadh Season Shows and Events
Riyadh Season 2023 will be filled with a lineup of exhilarating events and shows. While the complete list is yet to be unveiled, some exciting events to look forward to include:
WWE Crown Jewel
WWE’s biggest Superstars, including John Cena, will perform in Saudi Arabia for the first time since 2018. Get ready for thrilling wrestling action on Saturday, November 4, 2023.
The Night of Abdul Majeed Abdullah
On November 2nd, join in for a night of music, magic, and wonder as Abdul Majeed Abdullah takes the stage at Boulevard World. Expect an unforgettable performance that promises to leave you in awe.
Stay tuned for more thrilling events to be announced soon, as Riyadh Season continues to surprise and entertain.
Riyadh Season Tickets
Tickets for some of Riyadh Season’s shows and events are available now and can be booked through Riyadh Season’s official website. Keep an eye on their website for updates on new events and ticket releases.