What to do in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is taking rail travel to the next level with the launch of Land Bridge, a massive high-speed rail project that will connect the Red Sea to the Arabian Gulf. Spanning about 1,500 kilometres, it will link Jeddah on the west coast to Dammam on the east, passing through Riyadh in between. Once complete, Land Bridge will turn long road trips into quick, comfortable journeys. Imagine that the travel time between Jeddah and Riyadh will take less than four hours by train (instead of 12 hours by car). Often called a “desert miracle,” Land Bridge is one of the...

Looking for something special to do this winter? Wonder Hills Festival is the perfect choice! Returning to Dareen Hills in Jubail, this festival is set to light up the night and bring the whole family together for an unforgettable experience. Imagine walking through a landscape full of glittering lights, glowing sculptures, and interactive art that invites you to be a part of the magic. The event promises to be more than just a visual treat. Expect towering arches, shimmering pathways, and art pieces that tell their own stories as you explore. It’s a place where every turn holds something new...

Riyadh’s culinary scene just got to a whole new level with the opening of Che Figata, the latest Italian restaurant already welcoming guests at the luxurious Fairmont Hotel. Under the leadership of Chef Rino Serra, the restaurant brings authentic Italian flavors, blending tradition with innovation.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Laura - لَورا | Expat family | Riyadh | Daily Stories (@laura_in_saudiarabia) Che Figata, meaning “how cool” in Italian, is inspired by the picturesque landscapes of Piedmont, Tuscany, Calabria, and Sicily, the menu offers a journey through Italy’s culinary heritage. Expect to indulge in...

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious NEOM project is moving forward, and the latest reveal is Hidden Marina — the first section of The Line. This futuristic development will stretch 2.5 kilometers along the country’s western coast and cover an enormous 21 million square meters. Hidden Marina is designed to be a vertical city, standing 500 meters tall and divided into three connected sections. Once completed, it will offer 9,000 hotel rooms and 80,000 residential units, housing up to 200,000 people. The area will be more than just a place to live — it will have schools, shops, emergency services, and security, making...

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...

Saudi Arabia is making big moves in the luxury fashion world, and Riyadh is at the center of it all. With the city’s fashion scene rapidly expanding — especially with Riyadh Fashion Week gaining momentum — major brands are taking notice. Now, Balenciaga has opened its largest flagship store in the world, right in the heart of the Saudi capital. The new store is located on the Ground Floor of Solitaire Mall, between Christian Dior and Bottega Veneta stores, making it a fitting home for the high-end fashion house. Covering 483 square meters, the space embraces Balenciaga’s signature industrial aesthetic....

Get ready for one of the biggest wrestling events of the year as WWE Crown Jewel 2024 makes its epic return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia! The action-packed event is scheduled for November 2 at the Mohammed Abdo Arena. If you're a wrestling fanatic or simply love a good showdown, WWE Crown Jewel 2024 is an event you won’t want to miss. This year's edition brings together the best from WWE's Raw and SmackDown rosters for jaw-dropping matchups and plenty of drama. Main Event Highlights   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Lani | Liv Morgan And...

Dammam, get ready for a tasty new addition to your food scene! Wendy’s, the iconic American fast food chain, is opening its first branch in the city soon, bringing its beloved flavors to the local crowd. Known for its premium burgers, crispy fries, and variety of sides, Wendy’s already gained a strong popularity in the world. Wendy’s menu doesn’t disappoint, offering a range of options for every craving. Whether you’re in the mood for a beef or chicken burger, you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal made with Australian beef or fresh chicken. Don’t forget to pair it with their...

Diriyah is adding another attraction to its growing list — the soon-to-open The Chedi Wadi Safar. This new luxury hotel is set to blend history, culture, and modern comfort in a stunning natural setting. The Chedi brand, which started in Phuket in 1995, is known for its elegant hotels worldwide, from Miami to Muscat. In the Middle East, The Chedi has already made a mark with The Chedi Al Bait in Sharjah and The Chedi Katara in Doha. Now, it’s bringing its signature style to Wadi Safar in Diriyah. Diriyah holds deep historical significance as the original capital of Saudi...

Get ready to witness one of the biggest music events in the world as MDLBEAST's Soundstorm Festival returns to Riyadh this year. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable experience on December 14, 15, and 16 as the city comes alive with pulsating beats, electrifying performances, and an atmosphere filled with pure musical euphoria. This extraordinary festival, which debuted in 2019, has consistently pushed boundaries and created a true haven for music lovers in the Middle East. Looking back at the previous years' events, Soundstorm has boasted an impressive lineup that has left attendees in awe. From chart-topping international acts to...