What to do in Saudi Arabia - Latest News

As of April 19, Saudi Arabia has officially ended its temporary offer of a 50% discount on traffic fines. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that the grace period has closed, meaning drivers who failed to pay their outstanding violations before April 18, 2024, will now need to pay the full amount. The discount program had been available since April 18, 2023, and applied to any traffic violations committed before April 18, 2024. During this time, drivers were allowed to pay fines either in full or through installment plans at half the original cost. Originally launched for six months, the program...

Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer behind Saudi Arabia’s flagship regenerative tourism initiative, has announced the launch of Laheq Island, its first luxury destination primarily focused on residential living. Located along the Kingdom’s western coastline, Laheq marks a significant expansion of The Red Sea project into long-term, resort-style communities. Set to welcome its first residents in 2028, Laheq Island will offer a blend of exclusive homes and hospitality. The development will feature private residences, two luxury hotels, a 115-berth marina, and a wide range of upscale amenities. These include beach clubs, sports facilities, wellness centres, a golf course, and 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...

A new art show is opening next week in Riyadh’s historic Diriyah district — and it’s not your usual gallery experience. From April 21 to July 19, Diriyah Art Futures (DAF) is back with its second edition, putting the spotlight on the growing connection between technology and creativity in the Arab world. This year’s exhibition is called "Maknana: An Archaeology of New Media Art in the Arab World." The word "Maknana" comes from Arabic and means “automation,” and the show dives into how artists from the region have worked with technology over time — not just using digital tools, but...

If you're planning a trip to Makkah around Hajj time, there are some important updates you need to be aware of. Saudi Arabia has announced a strict new rule: only people with a valid Hajj permit or official permission to live or work in Makkah can stay in the city's hotels during the pilgrimage season. This decision kicks in from April 29, 2025 (Dhul-Qi'dah 1, 1446 AH) and lasts until Hajj ends. The aim of the temporary ban is to make sure pilgrims have a safe, organized experience without overcrowding. Who Can’t Enter Makkah During Hajj 2025? Saudi Arabia’s Ministry...

Craving that thin, foldable slice like they serve in New York? You’re in luck — Spirito, a new pizza place in Al Malqa, is now open and serving up authentic NY-style pizzas right in Riyadh. Spirito keeps it simple and satisfying. You can grab a whole pizza or just a slice, depending on how hungry you are — or how curious you feel.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by SPIRITO (@spirito_riyadh) Spirito offers a mix of classic and creative choices: meaty Brisket Pizza creamy and rich Burrata Pizza all-time classic Margherita Pizza herby and...

A new colour has officially joined the Pantone lineup — and it’s all about tradition, culture, and the desert tones of Saudi Arabia. On April 9, 2025, Diriyah Tan was introduced as a symbol of Diriyah, often called the City of Earth. This sandy-golden hue is more than just a visual trend — it tells a story rooted in the region’s past. So, what exactly is Diriyah Tan?     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by الدرعية | 𝐃𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐘𝐀𝐇 (@visitdiriyah) The shade takes inspiration from the warm, earthy colours of local mud brick buildings. These traditional...

There’s always something new popping up in Riyadh, and the latest is FoodSphere — a unique destination that blends tradition, innovation, and a whole lot of flavor. Set on Tahlia Street, one of the city’s liveliest areas, FoodSphere is part of the Riyadh Oases Network, which is turning everyday spaces into interactive cultural hubs. This isn't just another spot to grab coffee or take a stroll. It's a full experience designed to explore Saudi food culture, sustainability, and hospitality in a way that’s both hands-on and visually striking. What’s Inside FoodSphere in Riyadh FoodSphere is made up of three themed...

Elon Musk’s tunnel construction company, The Boring Company, is planning to propose a new underground transport project in Riyadh. The idea is to help reduce traffic in the city by building a network of underground roads. This announcement comes just a day before Musk's Tesla officially launches its electric vehicles in Saudi Arabia on April 10. Riyadh is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Its population is expected to jump to nearly 10 million by 2030 (+35% in 8 years). With more people and cars on the road, the city is looking for smart ways to manage traffic...

The well-known UK food and coffee chain has officially landed in Saudi Arabia’s capital, bringing its fresh and ready-to-go menu straight from London. Riyadh gets its first taste of Pret A Manger this Wednesday, April 9, at 12 PM, in Olaya Towers. If you’ve seen Pret during your travels — or just heard about it — now’s your chance to try it without leaving the city.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Pret A Manger KSA (@pret.ksa) What to Try at Pret A Manger in Riyadh Pret’s menu focuses on fresh, ready-to-eat meals made daily....