What to do in Riyadh

Riyadh continues its hotel boom with the latest addition to its hospitality scene – Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh Al Sahafa. Located in the capital’s growing Sahafa District, the hotel is just 20 minutes from King Khalid International Airport, offering easy access for business and leisure travellers alike. It’s also within close reach of Riyadh Boulevard, King Salman Social Centre Park, and the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) – making it a practical base whether you’re in town for meetings or a weekend break. The hotel features 171 rooms and suites, with many offering skyline views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Rooms are...

Saudi Arabia is about to get a fresh sportswear vibe with JAY3LLE landing this November. This isn’t just another athleisure brand; it’s backed by members of the royal family and aims to fuse Saudi culture with global style in a way that actually feels like home. At the helm is Princess Noura Bint Faisal Al Saud, taking the CEO seat and steering the brand toward creativity, collaboration, and cultivating a real sense of community. The designs are mixing sleek, sporty silhouettes with an international edge that draws from hotspots like New York and Paris — but always with a distinctly...

Pizza lovers in Riyadh now have a new spot to explore — Krisp has officially opened in Al Malqa, and it’s all about crisp, golden bases and Italian-inspired toppings. Whether you prefer your pizza simple or loaded with flavour, Krisp has crafted a menu that balances tradition with creativity. Krisp’s design draws from classic Italian pizzerias, with a modern edge. The dark grey exterior and large windows give the space a clean, urban feel, while wooden floors, sleek counters, and banquette seating create a cosy yet contemporary interior.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by...

The stage is set for LIV Golf Riyadh to return in 2026, and it’s going to be bigger and better than ever. Presented by Roshn Group, the event will take place from February 5 to 7 and is going to be one of the most exciting global golfing spectacles. If you're a fan of this game or just enjoy a great outdoor event, here’s everything you need to know. After its successful debut in February 2025, LIV Golf Riyadh is back to kick off the LIV Golf global season in the heart of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. To visit the event,...

If you're a steak lover, Rowley’s is the place you’ve been waiting for. The renowned British brasserie is bringing its legendary steak experience to Riyadh this December. After delighting diners in London and Dubai, the brand will open in the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). Since opening in 1976 on Jermyn Street in London, the restaurant has built a reputation for serving the finest dry-aged, grass-fed beef. Its signature Entrecôte Steak, perfectly cooked and paired with a rich herb, Roquefort, and butter sauce, is just one reason why this spot has become iconic. The Riyadh branch will feature its classic...

Craving authentic Italian food in Riyadh? Vera Italia has officially opened its doors at Sahara Mall, promising a warm welcome and a taste of Italy in the heart of the capital. The new venue was founded by friends with a shared passion for Italian cuisine and culture. The interior leans into clean design with grey walls, wooden floors, and soft cream and green seating. Photos and posters of old-school pizzerias and Vespas add a nostalgic Italian touch.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Vera Italia (@veraitalia_ksa) The menu takes a classic route with plenty...

If chocolate is your weakness, Riyadh is about to tempt you with something you won’t want to miss. Alain Ducasse Chocolat, the renowned brand famous for its artisanal chocolate, is making its Middle East debut beneath Al Faisaliah Tower in Al Olaya. Imagine walking into a boutique where the air is filled with the irresistible scent of premium chocolate. From velvety ganaches to beautifully crafted praline assortments, each creation of the brand is a work of art. Whether you're into a smooth dark chocolate bar or a crunchy biscuit bar, you'll find the right treat for your not-so-guilty pleasure. View...

Riyadh's dining scene is thriving, with a wide variety of new spots popping up that cater to every craving. One of the latest gems in the capital is YU by Toki, a modern Chinese restaurant offering bold Cantonese and Szechuan flavors with a contemporary twist. If you're in the mood for an unforgettable meal, this is the place to be. Located at Al Mamlaka Social Dining, YU by Toki welcomes diners with warm wooden tones and soft glowing lanterns hanging from the ceiling. The cozy, intimate lighting creates the perfect atmosphere for everything from a business lunch to a fun...

Get ready, fight fans! The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is coming to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the very first time, and it’s going to be epic! Mark your calendars for June 22nd, 2024, at 5 PM because UFC Fight Night will light up the spectacular Kingdom Arena in Riyadh. This historic event promises to be an unforgettable night of high-octane action, bringing together the best mixed martial artists from around the globe. What is UFC? For those who might be new to the sport, the UFC is the pinnacle of mixed martial arts (MMA). It's a dynamic combat...

Riyadh is buzzing with the news of Gamers8, the world’s largest gaming and esports festival. It’s not just an ordinary gaming event; it is the ultimate destination for gaming enthusiasts and esports champions alike. Situated in the heart of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Gamers8 spans eight weeks from July to September 2023, promising a thrilling and immersive experience. This one-of-a-kind gaming and esports festival offers a platform for gamers to compete for glory, discover the magic behind video game creation, and witness the world's top esports teams battle it out for massive prize pools. The festival will feature twenty gaming competitions...