What to do in Riyadh

A new law in Saudi Arabia will soon allow foreign individuals and companies to own property in the Kingdom, starting from January 2026. This marks a major policy shift aimed at supporting Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s national strategy to grow the economy beyond oil and attract more international investment. Under the new rules, expats living in the Gulf and foreign investors abroad will be able to purchase real estate in approved areas, even without Saudi citizenship. The law covers both individuals and companies, making this open to a broad range of buyers. At the moment, a list of approved zones...

After the successful launch this spring, Downtown Design Riyadh will return for its second edition next February, promising even more excitement and inspiration. The Middle East's leading fair for high-quality and contemporary design will take place from February 3 to 6, 2026, at JAX District. While the full lineup for the 2026 edition hasn’t been revealed yet, it’s sure to be another incredible showcase of international and local talent. The first edition included big names like Saint Louis, Visionnaire, Scarlet Splendour, Natuzzi, and Huda Lighting, as well as some incredible Saudi designers. View this post on Instagram A post shared...

Riyadh’s dining scene continues to grow, and the arrival of Abou el Sid adds a rich cultural note to the mix. Known for serving authentic Egyptian cuisine for over two decades, this beloved Cairo-born restaurant has officially opened in The Esplanade, following its debut in Jeddah. With interiors inspired by a traditional Egyptian household, the new Riyadh branch balances nostalgia and comfort. The space features patterned tiled floors, minimalist wooden furniture, and soft turquoise couches. Walls adorned with retro photos and soft lighting create a relaxed and familiar atmosphere, enhanced by Tanoura dance performances during select evenings.     View...

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....

Saudi Arabia is shifting into high gear once again, adding to its rapidly expanding entertainment scene. This time, it’s not just another event but an electrifying one — Hot Wheels Electric Karting is racing into the Kingdom, offering a unique and adrenaline-packed experience across six major cities: Riyadh Jazan Madinah Makkah Tabuk Taif   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by مشاريع الترفيه السعودية SEVEN (@saudi_seven) The thrilling attraction promises to draw in motor-sport lovers of all ages. Unlike traditional karting, Hot Wheels e-karts are designed for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced racers. They blend...

Egyptian singer and songwriter Bayou is making his way to Saudi Arabia this July, bringing his unique bilingual sound to live audiences in two major cities. The artist will perform in Jeddah on 17 July at Onyx Arena, followed by a show in Riyadh on 18 July as part of the MDLBeast Festival. This marks a special return for Bayou, born Adham Bayoumi, who spent part of his early life in Jeddah before moving to Dubai. His music blends Arabic and English, shaped by influences from both the Middle East and the UK, where he also lived. Bayou first gained...

Riyadh food lovers, prepare your taste buds! The celebrated Persian eatery Berenjak is heading from the streets of London to the vibrant dining scene of Saudi Arabia this February. Nestled in the upscale Via Riyadh, this pop-up marks an exciting addition to the Middle East’s growing culinary landscape. Berenjak, whose name is inspired by the cheerful snack of toasted rice often enjoyed at Persian funfairs, brings a fresh take on Tehran’s traditional eateries. The restaurant transforms the concept of a humble Iranian "hole-in-the-wall" into a dynamic dining experience that captures the richness of Persian culture and cuisine. The Berenjak story...

Via Riyadh Summer Pop-Up is returning this season — and it’s shaping up to be a big one. Running from August 7 to 30, the pop-up brings together top luxury lifestyle brands, fashion labels, and restaurant experiences, all in one place. If you’re into shopping, food or both, this limited-time event is worth adding to your agenda. The pop-up will feature more than 25 brands, including some of the world’s best-known names like: Dolce & Gabbana Elie Saab Tom Ford These global icons will be joined by leading Saudi brands, offering a blend of international flair and local creativity.  ...

Saudi Arabia has rolled out a set of regulations that redefine what fine dining means across the Kingdom. The move aims to improve guest experiences, raise industry standards, and make the country’s high-end dining scene more appealing to both local and international visitors. The new rules were issued by the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing. In total, twelve requirements have been introduced, focusing on service quality, operations, and brand positioning. Key Details on the New Regulations for Fine Dining Restaurants in Saudi Arabia Service expectations at fine dining restaurants are now much more structured. Every guest must be...

Saudi Arabia has announced a significant shake-up in its retail landscape. A new regulation bans small grocery stores (baqalas) and kiosks from selling a specific list of products, including tobacco, fresh produce, meat, and dates, as part of a broader effort to streamline and formalise the country’s retail sector. The directive, issued by Majed Al Hogail, Minister of Municipalities and Housing, is effective immediately. However, existing small grocers will have six months to adjust and comply with the new requirements. Products Now Banned from Sale in Small Grocery Stores: Regular and electronic cigarettes Shisha products Fruits and vegetables Dates Meat...