What to do in Riyadh

Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, has announced a promotion for international travelers, offering up to 50% off on both round-trip and transit flights across its vast network. This promotion is valid for both Business and Guest Class (Economy) bookings. Here are the key details of the offer: Up to 50% off on international flights Booking period until August 31 Travel period between September 1 and December 10 The offer is available on Saudia’s official website, mobile app, and sales offices. The promotion also includes the digital Stopover Visa, offering a stay of up to 96 hours in Saudi Arabia...

Saudi Arabia has proudly welcomed its eighth UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al-Faw. Nestled in Wadi Ad-Dawasir, between the Empty Quarter and the Tuwaiq mountain range, Al-Faw's designation as a UNESCO site highlights its significant historical and cultural value. Al-Faw was a key point on ancient trade routes, bustling with activity for thousands of years. Archaeologists have unearthed approximately 12,000 remains at the site, revealing tools from the Palaeolithic and Neolithic eras, intricate rock carvings, and an advanced ancient water management system. This area was a thriving settlement until it was abandoned around the fifth century CE. Throughout its long history,...

If you’re already planning your iftar meet-ups and late-night drives across the city, here’s something that will make your Ramadan routine a lot easier. The public transport is KSA capital is extending its working hours during Ramadan 2026, and that means both the Riyadh metro and public buses will be running later than usual. Let’s start with the Riyadh metro working hours during Ramadan 2026: From Sunday to Thursday, trains will operate from 8 AM until 2:30 AM On Fridays, services begin at 11 AM and until 3 AM Saturdays follow a similar schedule, running from 11 AM to 2:30...

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...

Riyadh’s public transportation system continues to grow with the latest addition to the Orange Line (Line 3) of the Riyadh Metro. Hassan bin Thabit Street, officially opened by the Public Transport Authority, is the newest stop on one of the capital’s most important transit corridors. The Orange Line stretches 41 kilometres, running from Jeddah Road in the west to the Second Eastern Ring Road near Khashm Al Aan in the east. The new stop is located between An Naseem and Khashm Al Aan (terminus). The newly opened station is expected to: Improve daily commute options for residents and visitors Relieve...

The historic Red Palace in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is getting a new lease on life. Built in 1943 by King Abdulaziz, the founding father of Saudi Arabia, this iconic palace is being transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel by the Boutique Group, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF). This transformation will preserve the palace's rich history while giving it a modern twist. Originally a gift to King Saud bin Abdulaziz, the Red Palace has seen decades of historic events. It was the first building in Saudi Arabia made with reinforced concrete and served as the headquarters for the...

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...

Riyadh is preparing to once again shine brightly with the return of Noor Riyadh. From November 20 to December 6, the city will come alive with vibrant neon hues as part of this annual city-wide festival that celebrates the art of light. The theme of this year’s festival is “In The Blink of An Eye,” inspired by Riyadh’s rapid transformation. The city has grown in remarkable ways, with new skyscrapers, a modern metro system, and evolving urban landscapes. Noor Riyadh will feature stunning light installations by both international and local artists. View this post on Instagram A post shared by...

Riyadh is ready to shine as Riyadh Fashion Week (RFW) 2025 takes over the city from October 16 to 21. Now in its third edition, the event is putting the Kingdom’s fashion scene firmly on the global map, showcasing both fresh talent and established designers from around the world. The six-day programme includes more than 25 runway shows, 10 designer presentations, a showroom, and interactive experiences. For the first time, international labels join the lineup, sharing the stage with rising Saudi talent in couture, eveningwear, womenswear, menswear, and streetwear. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Riyadh Fashion...

The Moroccan-born coffee brand Bacha Coffee is expanding to Riyadh. While the official opening date hasn’t been confirmed yet, the upcoming branch will be located in Solitaire Mall, one of the city’s newest high-end destinations. Bacha Coffee was founded in 1910 in Marrakesh, and quickly became more than just a café. It was a cultural and political meeting place for visitors from around the world — including Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill, who enjoyed Arabic coffee during their time in Morocco. After a long period of closure, the brand was revived in 2017 as a museum and in 2019...