What to do in Saudi Arabia

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing some of the most luxurious jewellery collections in the world up close, 2026 is your year. Jewels of the World is making its return to Saudi Arabia, bringing the finest jewellery from global brands to Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Khobar. Here’s when and where you can catch the event in 2026: Riyadh: June 15 to 19 at the Four Seasons Hotel Al Khobar: June 23 to 26 at Dhahran Expo Riyadh: October 11 to 15 at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Jeddah: October 19 to 22 at Jeddah Hilton The event will feature 100 jewellery...

If your idea of a good evening includes vintage treasures, old collectibles, and coffee in a hidden spot, Kuwait has a new place to add to your list. Shuwaikh Market has reopened this May, but it looks completely different from the original version many people remember. Now, its focus is entirely on antiques and vintage finds. The new market concept was created by antique shop Sika 86, which belongs to a mother and daughter who collect antiques and vintage pieces during their travels. Right now, the market has two main sections. The first area is an open courtyard lined with...

If Riyadh is on your travel list for 2026, keep this new hotel on your radar. Atheel KAFD Hotel is opening later this year inside one of the city's busiest business and lifestyle districts. The hotel is being created by Foster + Partners and will include 214 rooms and suites, from Superior Rooms to multi-bedroom suites and a Presidential Suite. Restaurant concepts inside the hotel include: Lafana with Saudi flavours and regional dishes Riya Maison, a French brasserie with subtle Saudi influences One of the most unique features it's its direct access to KAFD’s skywalk network. Cloud 14, the hotel’s...

If you spend time in KSA in early March, you may notice more green flags appearing across streets, buildings, and public spaces. That’s because Saudi Flag Day is celebrated every year on March 11, a national occasion dedicated to the Kingdom’s flag and the story behind it. Saudi Flag Day is a relatively recent national observance. It was officially introduced in 2023 to highlight the history and meaning of the national flag. March 11 marks the day in 1937 when King Abdulaziz Al Saud approved the official design of the Saudi national flag, corresponding to 27 Dhu Al Hijja 1355...

If your travel list is already long, it’s about to get even longer. Riyadh Air has added 15 new destinations. Craving European charm? Or more into the pace of a busy Asian capital? It’s now within reach with direct flights from the Saudi capital. While the airline only launched in late 2025, it has bold plans to connect Riyadh to more than 100 cities worldwide. Now, as it gets closer to that goal, here’s where you can travel with the new destinations. MENA: 4 cities Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) Dubai (UAE) Amman (Jordan) Cairo (Egypt) Planning a trip to Egypt? We’ve...

Big changes are coming to Riyadh, and they’re bringing more greenery and activity to the city’s life! Two massive public parks are planned for the eastern and southern parts of the city. While the exact opening dates aren’t confirmed yet, here’s a first look at what’s coming. These parks will feature everything from golf courses and sports fields to jogging tracks and family-friendly areas. Whether you’re into fitness, sports, or just looking to relax with the family, there’ll be plenty of space to enjoy. Parents can expect cool playgrounds for their little ones. Sports lovers can hit the fields or...

If your idea of a perfect Eid Al Adha getaway includes a serious adrenaline rush, AlUla has something new waiting for you high above the desert. From May 21 to 30, you can book AlUla Skydive and see the area’s desert landscapes, sandstone cliffs, and ancient oasis from above. The experience begins with a freefall at speeds of more than 200 km/hour before slowing down for the parachute ride over the scenery below. Anyone between 18 and 75 can join Tandem jump packages cost SAR 2,099 with a handheld camera or SAR 2,590 if you want a cameraman filming from...

With crowds and constant movement during Hajj, keeping track of important items and belongings isn’t always simple. Saudi Arabia is reducing one concern for pilgrims. The General Directorate of Passports confirmed that Hajj pilgrims can now use a digital visitor ID instead of carrying a physical passport while traveling within the country. Pilgrims can get the digital ID through the platform called Absher. Once issued, the ID stays on the phone and can be shown whenever needed. The digital version works the same way as a passport for movement inside Saudi Arabia. The update removes the need to carry a...

There’s a fresh breeze blowing along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, and it’s carrying big news. A brand-new luxury resort is landing at Amaala – and this one comes with serious muscles. Meet Equinox Resort Amaala, where fitness, lifestyle, and a splash of indulgence come together in a bold new setting. Equinox, the fitness-focused hospitality brand known for sleek spaces and hardcore workouts, is teaming up with Amaala, one of Saudi Arabia’s headline-making tourism projects. Together, they’re launching a resort that’s also a place to move, sweat, recover, and repeat. The Equinox Resort will sit in the heart of Amaala...

Food lovers in Riyadh have a new destination to explore: La Bourgeoise, the French bistro bar that has recently opened its doors at Drop Avenue Plaza in An Nakheel. This inviting spot offers a delightful mix of classic French pastries, creative mocktails, and an ambiance that makes every visit memorable. La Bourgeoise has redefined tea time with its selection of freshly brewed teas paired with exquisite pastries. Each pastry is crafted with precision and artistry, making them almost too beautiful to eat. The experience is ideal for an indulgent break or a relaxed gathering with friends. If you're a fan...