What to do in Saudi Arabia

After the successful launch this spring, Downtown Design Riyadh will return for its second edition next February, promising even more excitement and inspiration. The Middle East's leading fair for high-quality and contemporary design will take place from February 3 to 6, 2026, at JAX District. While the full lineup for the 2026 edition hasn’t been revealed yet, it’s sure to be another incredible showcase of international and local talent. The first edition included big names like Saint Louis, Visionnaire, Scarlet Splendour, Natuzzi, and Huda Lighting, as well as some incredible Saudi designers. View this post on Instagram A post shared...

Saudi Arabia is expanding its list of major urban developments, and one of the newest additions is Othaim Circle. The project is currently under construction in Al Khobar, along the popular Prince Turki Street, with a view of the Arabian Gulf. Spanning 52,000 square metres, Othaim Circle is designed to combine shopping, dining, and entertainment in one coastal location. The layout includes open-air walkways, natural light, and uninterrupted sea views, offering visitors a mix of indoor and outdoor access across the development. Retail takes centre stage at Othaim Circle, with over 80 shops planned. The commercial mix includes both high-end...

Riyadh’s dining scene continues to grow, and the arrival of Abou el Sid adds a rich cultural note to the mix. Known for serving authentic Egyptian cuisine for over two decades, this beloved Cairo-born restaurant has officially opened in The Esplanade, following its debut in Jeddah. With interiors inspired by a traditional Egyptian household, the new Riyadh branch balances nostalgia and comfort. The space features patterned tiled floors, minimalist wooden furniture, and soft turquoise couches. Walls adorned with retro photos and soft lighting create a relaxed and familiar atmosphere, enhanced by Tanoura dance performances during select evenings.     View...

Saudi Arabia is making big moves in the luxury fashion world, and Riyadh is at the center of it all. With the city’s fashion scene rapidly expanding — especially with Riyadh Fashion Week gaining momentum — major brands are taking notice. Now, Balenciaga has opened its largest flagship store in the world, right in the heart of the Saudi capital. The new store is located on the Ground Floor of Solitaire Mall, between Christian Dior and Bottega Veneta stores, making it a fitting home for the high-end fashion house. Covering 483 square meters, the space embraces Balenciaga’s signature industrial aesthetic....

Saudi Arabia is shifting into high gear once again, adding to its rapidly expanding entertainment scene. This time, it’s not just another event but an electrifying one — Hot Wheels Electric Karting is racing into the Kingdom, offering a unique and adrenaline-packed experience across six major cities: Riyadh Jazan Madinah Makkah Tabuk Taif   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by مشاريع الترفيه السعودية SEVEN (@saudi_seven) The thrilling attraction promises to draw in motor-sport lovers of all ages. Unlike traditional karting, Hot Wheels e-karts are designed for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced racers. They blend...

Egyptian singer and songwriter Bayou is making his way to Saudi Arabia this July, bringing his unique bilingual sound to live audiences in two major cities. The artist will perform in Jeddah on 17 July at Onyx Arena, followed by a show in Riyadh on 18 July as part of the MDLBeast Festival. This marks a special return for Bayou, born Adham Bayoumi, who spent part of his early life in Jeddah before moving to Dubai. His music blends Arabic and English, shaped by influences from both the Middle East and the UK, where he also lived. Bayou first gained...

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...

The weekend of Jeddah E-Prix 2026 is approaching, and it’s time to reveal who’ll be part of the off-track entertainment! The first artist to be announced is none other than Grammy-winning rapper Future! The American artist will headline the Friday night show on February 13. Fans of both high-speed racing and live music are in for an unforgettable experience as Future brings his hits to Jeddah Corniche Circuit. What to Expect at Jeddah E-Prix 2026 Formula E is all about fast, high-energy racing, where top drivers push electric cars to their limits. The weekend also includes live entertainment. In addition...

AlUla continues to surprise adventurers and tourists alike with its stunning blend of ancient heritage and modern attractions. While its rich history and UNESCO World Heritage sites are reasons enough to visit, there’s a new thrilling experience that promises to elevate your trip—literally. The AlUla Stairway, an adrenaline-pumping adventure, is now open for night climbs, offering an unforgettable view of the desert landscape beneath a starlit sky.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Experience AlUla (@experiencealula) Experience the First-of-its-Kind AlUla Stairway The AlUla Stairway is unlike anything else in the region. Suspended 45 meters...

Via Riyadh Summer Pop-Up is returning this season — and it’s shaping up to be a big one. Running from August 7 to 30, the pop-up brings together top luxury lifestyle brands, fashion labels, and restaurant experiences, all in one place. If you’re into shopping, food or both, this limited-time event is worth adding to your agenda. The pop-up will feature more than 25 brands, including some of the world’s best-known names like: Dolce & Gabbana Elie Saab Tom Ford These global icons will be joined by leading Saudi brands, offering a blend of international flair and local creativity.  ...