What to do in Saudi Arabia - Latest News

Saudi Arabia’s National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) has announced that Hajj will no longer fall during the summer months until the year 2050. According to a newly published 25-year Hajj calendar, starting in 2026, the Islamic pilgrimage will gradually move into spring, followed by winter and autumn seasons — offering milder weather for millions of pilgrims. The shift is due to the nature of the Hijri calendar, which is about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. This causes Islamic dates to move earlier each year, resulting in Hajj aligning with different seasons over time. Here’s how the seasons will...

Skywatchers in Saudi Arabia and across the region will have a rare opportunity to witness two celestial events in one night. On June 11, the full “Strawberry Moon” will rise, accompanied by the Great Lunar Standstill — a phenomenon that last occurred nearly 20 years ago. The Great Lunar Standstill happens every 18.6 years, when the Moon’s orbital tilt reaches its peak. This causes the Moon to rise and set at its most extreme northern and southern points on the horizon, a motion visible to the naked eye in areas with clear skies. According to the Astronomy and Space Club...

Planning a trip to the Caucasus just got easier. Armenia has officially announced that, starting July 1, 2025, citizens of Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and Oman will no longer need a visa to enter the country. The new visa-free policy allows travelers from these three Gulf nations to stay in Armenia for up to 180 days within a 12-month period without applying for an entry visa. The move is part of Armenia’s broader effort to make travel more accessible and to strengthen ties with Gulf countries. It’s also a timely update for citizens and residents of these countries looking for a...

A slice of French culinary heritage has landed in Riyadh. Lenôtre Paris, the renowned artisanal pastry house, has opened its first Saudi location in Laysen Valley, with another on the way in Lumière Centre. Known for refined presentation and technique, the brand brings with it decades of pastry expertise, now available to sample in the Kingdom. Originally founded in 1957 by Gaston and Colette Lenôtre, the concept has long stood as a symbol of French gastronomy. Their first boutique opened near Normandy, and in 1971, the Lenôtre School was established in Plaisir (Yvelines) to share culinary excellence with future generations....

Craving authentic Italian food in Riyadh? Vera Italia has officially opened its doors at Sahara Mall, promising a warm welcome and a taste of Italy in the heart of the capital. The new venue was founded by friends with a shared passion for Italian cuisine and culture. The interior leans into clean design with grey walls, wooden floors, and soft cream and green seating. Photos and posters of old-school pizzerias and Vespas add a nostalgic Italian touch.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Vera Italia (@veraitalia_ksa) The menu takes a classic route with plenty...

Breakfast lovers in Jeddah, you’re in for something new. The Breakfast Club, a popular café from Kuwait, is officially making its way to the city, with a new location set to open in Stars Avenue Mall. This marks the brand’s first Jeddah branch, expanding on its presence in Al Khobar and Riyadh. While the full menu for the Jeddah outlet hasn’t been revealed yet, The Breakfast Club’s existing branches offer a solid clue of what to expect — and it’s more than just breakfast.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Breakfast Club -...

Riyadh’s café scene just got a stylish addition. Ralph’s Coffee, the lifestyle café concept by fashion powerhouse Ralph Lauren, has officially opened its doors in Saudi Arabia. Located in the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the venue marks the brand’s first café in the Kingdom — and it’s got plenty to offer both fashion lovers and coffee fans. Ralph’s Coffee brings the brand’s signature all-American flair to the capital. From the moment you arrive, the setup makes a statement: a teddy bear in a white apron greets you at the window, and a vintage-style coffee cart sits just outside, complete...

With Eid Al Adha around the corner, Riyadh’s transport authority has rolled out an adjusted schedule for metro and bus services, aiming to accommodate shifting travel habits during the holiday period. The changes will be in place from June 5 to June 14, before regular operations resume on June 15. Metro Operating Hours during Eid Al Adha in Riyadh Metro services across all lines will end daily at midnight during the holiday. However, start times will vary by date and line. Orange Line: Daily: 10 AM to midnight Back to regular schedule (6 AM start) on June 15 Other Metro...

Riyadh’s café scene is growing fast, and Lazy Cat is keeping pace. The popular feline-inspired concept that first made waves in Laysen Valley is now expanding, with a second location opening soon in the Diplomatic Quarter. Since making its Saudi debut, Lazy Cat has earned a loyal following thanks to its inviting design and creative menu. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat, the menu has plenty to offer.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lazy Cat (@eatlazycat) Some of the signature dishes include: Burrata Caprese Folded...

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...