What to do in Saudi Arabia - Latest News

Indoor skiing enthusiasts, rejoice! Infinite Ski, Dubai’s renowned indoor ski facility, is branching out to Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, and Jeddah. With its innovative approach to skiing and snowboarding, Infinite Ski is set to bring this thrilling experience to new audiences across the Middle East. Located in Dubai’s Al Quoz district, Infinite Ski is a go-to destination for beginners and seasoned skiers. Its Maxxtracks slopes, developed in the Netherlands, mimic the sensation of snow but don’t require bulky winter gear. Instead, you can ski in complete comfort while the adjustable speed and incline cater to your skill level — whether you’re...

Lace up your running shoes — the Riyadh Marathon is back for another thrilling edition! Scheduled for Saturday, February 8, 2025, this premier running event invites participants of all skill levels to take on one of four exhilarating race courses. Whether you’re an experienced marathoner or a casual jogger, there’s a challenge just for you. Race Categories for Riyadh Marathon 2025 The Riyadh Marathon is an annual highlight organized by the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) and the Ministry of Sport. Designed to be inclusive, the event welcomes participants of all fitness levels, encouraging a vibrant community spirit. This...

Riyadh metro just took a major step forward with the opening of five new stations across the Blue and Orange Lines. These additions are set to make traveling around the city smoother, connecting key cultural sites, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods. Let’s take a closer look at these new stops and what they offer. New Stations on the Blue Line (Line 1) National Museum Station A standout among the new stations, National Museum Station is the second-largest hub in the Riyadh metro network and a central transfer point where the Blue and Green Lines intersect. Located in the Al-Batha district,...

As Eid al Fitr 2025 approaches, it’s time to start planning for one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. Knowing when public holidays fall helps ensure you can make the most of this joyous occasion. Following Founding Day on February 22, the next confirmed public holiday in Saudi Arabia is Eid al Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. Because Islamic holidays are tied to lunar cycles, the exact dates will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon by the official moon-sighting committee. When Is Ramadan 2025? Ramadan is expected to begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025,...

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...

Riyadh is set to welcome a remarkable guest this January — Sir Anthony Hopkins, the legendary Oscar-winning actor. But this time, he’s not here to act. Instead, he’s bringing a different kind of artistry to the stage: his music. Hopkins, known worldwide for his iconic roles in film, is also a passionate composer. For Riyadh Season, he has crafted original musical compositions that will be performed in a special concert titled “Life is a Dream.” The prestigious Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Matthew Freeman, will bring these compositions to life.     View this post on Instagram   A...

Get ready for an extraordinary experience this January as AlUla Desert Polo returns to the breathtaking landscapes of AlUla, Saudi Arabia. Held from January 16 to 18, 2025, this unique tournament is a key event of the Winter at Tantora Festival, offering visitors a chance to witness world-class polo in a setting like no other. Hosted by the Royal Commission for AlUla in collaboration with the Saudi Polo Federation, this sporting spectacle unfolds amidst AlUla’s dramatic sandstone formations and ancient archaeological treasures, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra. Picture yourself watching fast-paced matches against a backdrop of rugged...

Saudi Arabia has unveiled new rules aimed at simplifying ID and visa processes for expatriates and their dependents. The General Directorate of Passports has announced two key updates that impact residents currently outside the Kingdom. Under the new regulations, dependents of expatriates and domestic workers who are abroad can now renew their resident IDs remotely. This change eliminates the need for physical presence in the Kingdom for this essential process. Additionally, expatriates outside Saudi Arabia can extend exit and re-entry visas — whether single or multiple — through streamlined digital platforms. These services are accessible via the Ministry of Interior's...

Diriyah Season is in full swing until March 2025, promising a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and art in Ad-Diriyah, the birthplace of Saudi Arabia. This annual event offers a wide range of activities for visitors to explore, from historical exhibits and interactive workshops to fine dining and outdoor experiences. The 2024-25 theme, “Entertain Your Cultural Curiosity,” invites attendees to connect with Diriyah’s rich 600-year heritage and enjoy a diverse program that blends tradition with modernity. Here’s a detailed look at what’s planned so far: Imam Turki bin Abdullah Exhibition Running until January 11, 2025, this exhibition highlights the life...

Riyadh Metro has officially opened the doors to its Orange Line, marking the completion of its expansive six-line network. As of January 5, this vital connection is set to transform how residents and visitors navigate the city. The Orange Line, also known as Line 3, spans 41 km along Madinah Road, linking the eastern and western parts of Riyadh. It stretches from Jeddah Road to the second eastern ring road near Khashm Al-Aan, making it a critical addition to the metro system. Starting operations daily at 6 AM, passengers can board at five major stations: Jeddah Road Station Tuwaiq Station...