What to do in Saudi Arabia

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...

WICKED The Musical is coming Riyadh this December, bringing the magical story of Oz to life for the very first time in the Middle East. Hosted at the King Fahad Cultural Center from December 3 to December 20, this highly anticipated production will give local audiences the chance to experience one of the world’s most beloved shows. WICKED The Musical: About the Production The show will transport you into a world of magic, wonder, and unforgettable music! WICKED tells the untold story of two witches, Elphaba and Glinda, who start as friends but soon find themselves on different paths. Elphaba...

Riyadh’s culinary landscape is about to welcome a star player: Isabel Mayfair, the celebrated London eatery, is making its international debut in the Saudi capital. Known for its elegant 1930s-inspired charm and delectable fusion of Latin and Mediterranean cuisine, this restaurant is poised to become the city’s hottest dining destination.               View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Isabel Mayfair | Riyadh (@isabelriyadh) Isabel Mayfair first opened its doors in 2017 in London’s prestigious Mayfair district. Created by acclaimed restaurateur...

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...

Get ready to glide into an unforgettable adventure because AlUla on Wheels is back, bringing its one-of-a-kind skating experience to the enchanting oasis of AlUla. This open-air roller rink promises more than just skating – it’s a full-on journey through time, soundtracked by electrifying DJ performances under a sky full of stars.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by AlUla Moments لحظات العلا (@alulamoments) Located in the vibrant art district of AlJadidah, this re-imagined roller rink is a nostalgic haven and cultural hotspot. Featuring creative designs and curated by Good Intentions, the visionary global movement...

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...

Every year on September 23, the Kingdom comes alive in celebration of its unifying spirit. Saudi National Day 2025 marks the 95th anniversary of the Kingdom’s founding, and this year’s theme "Pride in Our Nature" is a reminder of the pride, resilience, and shared culture that connect us all. The Kingdom will light up with unforgettable experiences, concerts, and activities, from spectacular shows in Riyadh to buzzing nightlife in Jeddah, here are the best things to do during the Saudi National Day holiday 2025. Saudi National Day Must See Events Don’t Miss the National Day Air Shows Of course, no...

Aman Resorts, Swiss hospitality company known for its ultra-luxury properties worldwide, is bringing a new residential development to Wadi Safar in Saudi Arabia. The project, named Amansamar Residences, will be built near the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diriyah, a location deeply connected to the Kingdom's history and cultural heritage. The name Amansamar blends two meanings: “aman,” which is Sanskrit for peace, and “samar,” the Arabic word for sharing stories and knowledge among friends. Together, they reflect the project’s vision of creating a peaceful community rooted in connection. The name also translates to “the peaceful acacia tree,” a symbol of...

Riyadh keeps surprising with new announcements, and the latest one is a big deal for fashion lovers. The city will soon get its own Fashion District, a groundbreaking project that will elevate Saudi Arabia’s fashion scene. This will be a creative hub where designers, brands, and fashion enthusiasts can collaborate, innovate, and bring their ideas to life. Though the exact location hasn’t been confirmed, it’s likely to be near King Saud University, with plans to open by 2028. So, what’s in store for Riyadh Fashion District? Think of it as the ultimate playground for fashion. It will house everything from...

Wondering what to do in Riyadh this season? Aldirah Winter has everything you need: from culture and art to food and entertainment. It’s happening now through March 31, 2026, and every weekend brings something new for you to enjoy. Whether you're making memories with your family, catching up with friends, or exploring on your own, there’s always something exciting waiting for you. With different zones offering a wide range of experiences, Aldirah Winter lets you explore Riyadh’s heritage, get creative in workshops, savor delicious food, and enjoy live performances. Culture Dirwaza For those eager to dive into Riyadh's past, this...