What to do in Saudi Arabia

Looking for a winter escape in Riyadh? Head to BLVD World where the snow fun starts on November 15. Riyadh Season 2025 brings back the crowd-favorite Courchevel Zone, delivering the magic of the French Alps right to Saudi Arabia. Snowflakes fall from the ceiling, mountain backdrops set the scene, and a ski lift model adds to the atmosphere. As you explore, you’ll find snowmen, Christmas trees, and statues of winter animals like polar bears and reindeer. There’s even a cozy fire inside an igloo, perfect for warming up and taking a photo. If you’re ready to ski, Courchevel Zone has...

Saudi Arabia's urban transformation is in full swing, with new facilities, state-of-the-art stadiums for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, and expanded airports all in the works. Among these changes, Jeddah is also seeing some huge progress. The long-forgotten Jeddah Metro project has been revived and given the green light after years of delays. What was once just an idea is now on track to become a reality, with new details finally emerging about what’s to come. Jeddah Metro: First Details about Lines and Stations The idea for metro in the city first emerged in the early 2010s. After years of...

Saudi Arabia has introduced a new set of rules that explains how public facilities across the country should be named. The regulations were approved by the Cabinet and published in the official Umm Al Qura Gazette. The goal is to make naming clearer and more consistent across the Kingdom. These rules apply to all publicly owned facilities in Saudi Arabia. This includes schools, municipal buildings, cultural centres, sports venues, and transport facilities. Each government body will name the facilities it manages, following the approved guidelines and existing laws. The new set of rules outlines what is not allowed when naming...

Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector continues to expand, and this time, the spotlight is on Abha. The scenic city in the Aseer mountains is set to welcome a major name in luxury hospitality: Waldorf Astoria Abha. The announcement, shared by ARDARA — an investment firm backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) — marks a milestone for the region’s tourism ambitions. The upcoming hotel will be part of AlWadi, a newly unveiled lifestyle community by ARDARA. The development aims to create a year-round destination that blends upscale living with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.     View this post...

Saudi Arabia officially welcomes Ramadan 2026! With the moon sighting confirmed, the holy month begins on Wednesday, February 18. This marks a time of deep reflection, devotion, and a stronger connection to faith for Muslims across the Kingdom. For those looking for more details on how to celebrate and adapt to the changes during this period, check out our guide on Ramadan in Saudi Arabia 2026: new rules, when and how to celebrate. As part of the changes during this month, the Riyadh Metro has adjusted its operating hours to better accommodate the needs of those observing the holy month....

AlUla is adding another architectural and hospitality milestone to its growing list of developments. The AlUla Development Company (UDC), a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has unveiled the concept for NUMAJ, a 250-room luxury hotel developed in partnership with Marriott International’s Autograph Collection. The property is set to open in 2027. Inspired by both astronomy and cultural heritage, the name NUMAJ takes reference from Nu Ursae Majoris, a star system used by ancient travellers in the region. It also nods to the Arabic phrase Al Kafzah al Ula, or "the first leap," highlighting the spirit of discovery...

Riyadh’s culinary landscape is about to welcome a star player: Isabel Mayfair, the celebrated London eatery, is making its international debut in the Saudi capital. Known for its elegant 1930s-inspired charm and delectable fusion of Latin and Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant is poised to become the city’s hottest dining destination.               View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Isabel Mayfair | Riyadh (@isabelriyadh) Isabel Mayfair first opened its doors in 2017 in London’s prestigious Mayfair district. Created by acclaimed restaurateur...

Qiddiya City is taking another big step toward becoming a global hub for sports and entertainment. In a newly announced global partnership with the Faldo Series, the city has revealed plans for an 18-hole championship golf course, designed by six-time Major winner Sir Nick Faldo. The course is expected to open in 2026 and is part of Qiddiya’s strategy to support sporting development in Saudi Arabia, particularly among youth. The partnership with the Faldo Series — a well-known international platform for young golf talent — reflects the Kingdom’s continued investment in grassroots sports under Vision 2030. The upcoming course won’t...

WICKED The Musical is coming Riyadh this December, bringing the magical story of Oz to life for the very first time in the Middle East. Hosted at the King Fahad Cultural Center from December 3 to December 20, this highly anticipated production will give local audiences the chance to experience one of the world’s most beloved shows. WICKED The Musical: About the Production The show will transport you into a world of magic, wonder, and unforgettable music! WICKED tells the untold story of two witches, Elphaba and Glinda, who start as friends but soon find themselves on different paths. Elphaba...

If you’re flying with Kuwait Airways this month, it’s worth checking your flight time before heading to the airport. The airline has rescheduled some May flights. As operations gradually move back to KWI from Dammam International Airport (DMM), different international approvals are needed, so some schedules have been adjusted while the permits are being processed. Kuwait Airways said the changes are only related to timing and do not mean flights are being cancelled. Passengers affected by the updated timings can either request a refund or keep the ticket value in an electronic wallet for future bookings. The airline is gradually...