What to do in Saudi Arabia - Latest News

Boutique brand Earth Hotels is preparing to make a splash in the Middle East hospitality scene. With a strong focus on design, sustainability, and lifestyle experiences, the brand is set to open four new properties across the UAE and Saudi Arabia by 2027. Each location brings a unique concept — from mangrove retreats to party-ready beach resorts. Here’s what’s coming up. Earth Mangroves in Umm Al Quwain, UAE Opening in 2025, this eco-conscious resort is nestled within Umm Al Quwain’s lush mangroves. The property will feature: 41 free-standing bungalows, including waterfront units Nature-based activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, yoga, and...

Jeddah’s dining scene is growing fast, and the latest addition is bringing both character and creativity to the table. Dear Duck, a new concept by local chef and restaurateur Nihal Felemban, has officially opened its doors in La Paz Plaza, As Salamah. Felemban’s latest concept is turning heads with its distinct theme, playful design, and curated duck-inspired dining. Dear Duck draws design cues from California and Paris, blending laid-back cool with chic French style. The venue is hard to miss, with its bright yellow façade standing out along the street. Inside, there’s a cosy and lively atmosphere, from booth seating...

Riyadh is joining more than 100 cities worldwide for One Run 2025, a global running event set to take place on Saturday, May 24. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just want to enjoy the atmosphere with friends and family, this inclusive event welcomes runners of all abilities. The Route and Location of One Run Riyadh 2025 This year’s One Run Riyadh will be held at Wadi Namar, offering scenic surroundings and early morning serenity. All races will kick off early in the morning (5 AM or 5:15 AM, depending on the category). Participants are advised to arrive at...

Riyadh’s dining scene continues to evolve, and its latest addition, Table;To, is already drawing attention. Located in the Al Takhassousi district, this restaurant blends regional and international influences with a focus on premium meats and rich, layered flavours. Currently in its soft opening, Table;To welcomes guests daily from 5 PM to 1 AM. The venue is styled with moody lighting, dark woods, and deep green tables, creating a dramatic setting for a night out. A sense of playful sophistication runs through the space, right down to the custom table captions.     View this post on Instagram   A post...

Saudi Arabia’s evolving tourism landscape is making room for a new addition on the Red Sea. Yanbu, a coastal city known for its history and strategic location, is set to welcome a boutique wellness resort by 2027, developed in partnership with ASFAR — the tourism investment arm of the Public Investment Fund — and destination development firm Baheej. The upcoming property will be a 34-room heritage-inspired hotel featuring cabanas with sea views, a spa that integrates maritime motifs, and wellness-focused experiences like yoga and meditation. Designed by architecture firm Spectrum, the resort will reflect the region’s rich seafaring history through...

Riyadh’s Al Olaya district has welcomed a new café that’s giving waffles a design-forward spotlight. Novu Waffle, the latest evolution of a once-small takeaway concept, has opened its doors with a full café experience — and a bold visual identity to match. The 100-square-metre venue stands out not just for its food, but for its interior, designed by Spanish design studio Masquespacio. The space is minimalist and monochrome, with clean white walls, floors, and furnishings subtly interrupted by a warm yellow glow.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Dezeen (@dezeen) The grid pattern of...

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has released the official calendar for the upcoming Umrah season, detailing key dates and regulations for international pilgrims planning to perform the pilgrimage during the Islamic year 1447, corresponding to 2025–2026 in the Gregorian calendar. Umrah Start and Visa Schedule International pilgrims will be allowed to begin performing Umrah from June 11, 2025. Visa issuance will start a day earlier on June 10, 2025 (14 Dhul Hijjah 1446), giving pilgrims and service providers a clear timeline for preparation. Service Agreement Deadlines To streamline the process, all service agreements between Umrah companies and foreign...

Riyadh is preparing for a significant leap forward in transport innovation, with self-driving taxis set to appear on city roads in the near future. The announcement was made by Dr. Omaimah Bamasag, Deputy of Transport Enablement at the Transport General Authority (TGA), as part of the Kingdom’s broader plan to create a smarter, more sustainable transport network. This move won’t be limited to Riyadh. Five other Saudi cities are also expected to join the rollout of autonomous vehicles, which will include not only taxis, but also self-driving trucks, passenger vehicles, and drones. The initiative is being driven by the Future...

A new culinary experience is coming to Riyadh, and it’s not your typical fine dining restaurant. Julien by Daniel Boulud, set to open inside the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, will offer a highly exclusive chef’s table experience — limited to just 10 seats. This intimate concept is the latest creation from Chef Daniel Boulud, celebrated globally for his refined approach to French cuisine. Julien will take the idea of a tasting menu to new heights with a multi-sensory, live-cooking format that blends hospitality and performance. Guests will be seated around a marble-topped chef’s counter in a hidden...

A major new name in global shopping is about to land in Saudi Arabia. Westfield, the internationally recognised retail brand behind some of the world’s most visited malls, will soon be making its mark in the Kingdom — starting with Westfield Riyadh. This development follows a 10-year exclusive franchise partnership between Saudi Arabia’s Cenomi Centers and Westfield. Under the agreement, Cenomi Centers will rebrand up to eight of its existing malls across the country, bringing the Westfield experience to Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Among the first to carry the Westfield name are the upcoming projects: Jawharat Riyadh Jawharat Jeddah Nakheel...