What to do in Saudi Arabia

Jeddah is gearing up for an action-packed weekend as the Jeddah E-Prix 2025 returns on 14-15 February. This year’s event isn’t just about the high-speed Formula E races — it’s also bringing big names to the stage. One of the biggest highlights? R&B icon Akon will be performing at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit on Friday, 14 February. Akon, known for hits like "Smack That," "Lonely," and "Right Now (Na Na Na)," has made a mark in the music industry with his mix of R&B, hip-hop, and pop. He has collaborated with stars like Eminem, Lady Gaga, and David Guetta and...

Uber has rolled out a new feature in Saudi Arabia that gives women riders the option to be matched only with female drivers. The move is part of the company’s wider efforts to boost women’s participation in the workforce and expand access to safe, flexible job opportunities in the mobility sector. The new ride option, called Women Drivers, functions similarly to the existing UberX service. Riders can book a trip on-demand or schedule one up to 30 minutes in advance through Uber Reserve. The feature is being gradually introduced across the country and will be visible to women riders in...

Art and culture enthusiasts, mark your calendars — Jeddah welcomes the second edition of the Islamic Arts Biennale, running from January 25 to May 25, 2025. The biennale will take place at the Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport, offering a thought-provoking exploration of faith, heritage, and artistic expression. Following its debut in 2023, the first edition’s theme, Awwal Bait (First House), highlighted the Holy Ka’bah in Mecca as a central focus. This year’s theme, And All That Is In-Between, delves into the diverse ways faith is experienced and expressed, bridging the sacred and the artistic. The 2025...

Balad Beast is coming back for its fourth edition, and if you’ve been waiting for this massive party in Jeddah to return, save the dates. On January 29-30, the festival will take over Al Balad, bringing spots like Souq Square, Roshn Square, and the city’s hidden courtyards to life with music. With four stages, there’ll be no shortage of beats to match your vibe, whether you're into hip-hop, electronic, or something else entirely. The lineup for Balad Beast 2026 has been announced, and you're in for a treat! More than 70 artists will perform live for you on these two...

Riyadh is gearing up for an unforgettable start to Riyadh Season as iconic American rapper Busta Rhymes takes the stage at the Kingdom Arena on October 12th. With his explosive energy and legendary fast-flow rapping, the evening promises to be nothing short of electrifying. Busta Rhymes has been a force in the music world since the late 1980s. Over the years, Busta has dropped ten solo albums and collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, and Lil Wayne.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by موسم الرياض |...

Saudi Arabia continues to enhance accessibility for visitors and pilgrims, with the latest addition being a new cable car in Makkah. This exciting development will make the journey to the sacred Cave Hira much easier, offering a modern solution to what was once a challenging climb.   قريباً يبدأ العد التنازلي في #حي_حراء_الثقافي بمكة المكرمة لبدء تنفيذ مشروع #تلفريك_حراء والذي سيمكن الراغبين في زيارة #غار_حراء من الوصول إليه عبر التلفريك بكل يسر وأمان - إن شاء الله - . pic.twitter.com/HSO6okXiJN — حيّ حراء الثّقافي| Hira Cultural District (@JabalHera) August 17, 2024 The cable car will travel through a four-kilometer stretch,...

Riyadh Season 2024 is gearing up for an impressive launch, and the excitement has reached new heights with the announcement that hip-hop legend Missy Elliott will be taking the stage at Kingdom Arena in Saudi Arabia’s capital. Scheduled to begin on October 12, Riyadh Season 2024 promises a star-studded opening ceremony. Joining Missy Elliott on stage will be fellow hip-hop icon Busta Rhymes and R&B sensation Ciara, ensuring an electrifying kickoff to this year’s entertainment extravaganza.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by موسم الرياض | Riyadh Season (@riyadhseason) Missy Elliott climbed to the peak of...

AlUla, a breathtaking ancient city in northwest Saudi Arabia, is a place where history meets stunning landscapes. Famous for its UNESCO-listed Hegra, carved into sandstone cliffs, AlUla offers a unique setting for Ramadan. This March, the city comes alive with special events, traditional iftars, and festive decorations, making it a perfect destination to experience the spirit of the holy month. Iftar Tofareya – A Shared Ramadan Feast One of the highlights of Ramadan in AlUla is Iftar Tofareya, a communal iftar that brings locals and visitors together at Incense Road in the AlJadidah Arts District. Guests can enjoy a spread...

Get ready for one of the biggest beauty events in the region! Beautyworld Saudi Arabia is returning for its fifth edition, bringing together top beauty brands and industry experts. From April 21 to 23, the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC) will host this event, offering a space for professionals and beauty lovers to connect and share the latest trends.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Beautyworld Middle East (@beautyworldme) Whether you’re in the industry or simply passionate about beauty, there’s plenty to explore. This year’s Beautyworld is the largest so far, covering...

A Miu Miu pop-up has arrived at Bujairi Terrace, offering a unique experience that combines fashion and food. Located at Flamingo Room by Tashas on the first floor, this temporary spot is open until March 30, so make sure to visit before it closes! At the Miu Miu pop-up, you’ll find a lively atmosphere full of branded elements – from the neon signs to Miu Miu logos on cushions, napkins, and even on the desserts and drinks.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Bujairi Terrace | مطل البجيري (@bujairiterrace) It’s designed to create a...