What to do in Saudi Arabia

Step aboard the legendary Amerigo Vespucci as it docks in Jeddah from January 26 to 30, offering a rare glimpse into Italian heritage and maritime history. Hosted by the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina in the scenic Ash Shati district, this free event promises to immerse visitors in the art, craftsmanship, and culinary treasures of Italy. The Amerigo Vespucci, often called a "floating ambassador of Italy," has traveled the globe, visiting over 30 ports including Abu Dhabi, Mumbai, Singapore, and Tokyo. Now, it brings a touch of Italian elegance to Jeddah's waterfront. This unique event is perfect for families and...

Layali Diriyah — “Diriyah Nights” — is back in 2025, and it’s more spectacular than ever! Now in its fourth year, this amazing outdoor festival brings the historic heart of Diriyah to life with a dazzling mix of lights, music, delicious food, and rich cultural experiences. What to Expect at Layali Diriyah 2025 Stroll beneath palm trees lit up with shimmering lights, and explore a lively scene filled with amazing food, shopping, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re here for the food, the entertainment, or the heritage, there’s something for everyone. Delicious dining: Visitors have a choice between six cafes and...

Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are joining forces to build the King Hamad Bridge, a major infrastructure project expected to be completed by December 2030. This bridge will serve as a vital connection between the two Gulf nations, improving transportation, trade, and economic ties. The announcement came during the third meeting of the Saudi-Bahraini Coordination Council, where officials reviewed the progress of key projects, including investments, environmental initiatives, and infrastructure development. Alongside the new bridge, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are also working on a railway project, set for completion in the same year. These projects reflect the countries' commitment to modernizing...

Travel and trade between Saudi Arabia and Egypt may soon get a major boost. Officials from both countries have revealed plans for a railway connection that could link the Sinai Peninsula with the Kingdom, forming part of a larger Asia-Europe transit network. Egypt’s Transport Minister, Kamel Al-Wazir, recently confirmed that planning is complete for a potential bridge or tunnel that would connect the two countries. While nothing has been implemented just yet, the infrastructure is ready to go whenever greenlit. The proposed railway would tie into Egypt’s broader rail expansion, which includes high-speed routes along seven main axes. Future routes...

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s brand-new airline, is set to launch before the end of 2025, turning the capital into a major global hub while offering modern comfort with a touch of Saudi culture. The airline is based at King Khalid International Airport and backed by the Public Investment Fund. The airline will connect over 100 destinations worldwide, with the first flight to London Heathrow expected in late October. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riyadh Air | طيران الرياض (@riyadhair) The airline’s fleet will feature more than 200 planes ready to fly across Africa, Asia, and Europe....

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...

Pickl has officially opened in Riyadh, bringing its well-known burger concept from Dubai to two new spots in the Saudi capital: AlNakheel Mall (with 96 seats indoors and 16 outside) and U-Walk (with 98 indoor seats and 24 outdoors). These are the first dine-in locations for the brand in Saudi Arabia. Known for its approach to comfort food like chicken sandos, tenders, and milkshakes, Pickl brings a consistent experience wherever it goes. Now in Riyadh, locals and visitors can try the brand’s signature burgers and other offerings.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Pickl...

If you don’t mind a short drive outside the city, Kuwait Geopark is now open and well worth the trip. It offers a fresh experience for anyone looking to explore nature, geology, and history. The park is located just north of Kuwait Bay and is a great spot for a family-friendly day out. Inside, you’ll find rare sand injectites, formations that resemble the surface of Mars. Wander through Geological Timeline Wall to see how Earth has evolved over millions of years, or stop by Mineral Garden for an interactive experience with local minerals. If spending the whole day at Kuwait...

Welcome to Jeddah, the gem of the Red Sea, where tradition meets modernity, and history intertwines with contemporary flair.  As Saudi Arabia's bustling port city, Jeddah is not only a gateway to Makkah but also a vibrant destination that captivates visitors with its rich cultural tapestry. Let's embark on a detailed journey to explore what to see in Jeddah and the best places that make it a must-visit destination.  Best Tourist Places to Visit in Jeddah Al-Balad (The Historic District) Step back in time with a stroll through Al-Balad, Jeddah's UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places...

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...