What to do in Riyadh

Exciting news for aspiring chefs in Saudi Arabia – Gordon Ramsay Academy is coming to Riyadh! Scheduled to open by the end of 2025, this marks the first time Gordon Ramsay’s culinary school will be setting up shop in the Kingdom, and it’s creating quite a buzz. Located in the upcoming Narjis View Mall, it’ll offer a unique opportunity to learn from one of the most famous chefs in the world. With an international culinary icon like Gordon Ramsay backing the academy, you know you’re in good hands. Whether you dream of mastering gourmet dishes or pursuing a career in...

Ready to discover a side of the Saudi art story most people haven’t seen yet? Step inside Bedayat exhibition at the National Museum in Riyadh and you’ll find the early chapters of the Saudi art movement laid out in front of you. It is open to visitors until April 11. Inside, you’ll find more than 250 artworks created by 73 artists, along with archival documents that show how art education and early exhibitions developed across the Kingdom. The exhibition looks at the period when Saudi artists began studying formally, organising shows, and shaping what would become the country’s modern art...

Northern Saudi Arabia just reached a new milestone in air travel. On February 25, Al Jouf International Airport has officially began operations. From now on, all arrivals and departures are handled at this upgraded hub near Sakakah, built to serve up to 1.6 million passengers annually. Inside the terminal, you’ll find green areas with olive trees, a reference to Al Jouf’s well-known olive production. Facilities at the airport include: 16 check-in counters, including two self-service options 11 arrival and departure gates Five dual passport control counters 648 parking spaces Accessible services are available for passengers with disabilities and similar conditions,...

With global events like Riyadh Expo 2030 and FIFA World Cup 2034 on the horizon, Saudi Arabia is preparing for a huge increase in visitors. To accommodate this growing number, the expansion of King Salman International Airport (KSIA) was announced. The project includes building a new terminal capable of handling up to 40 million passengers each year. The next phase of the development will start in 2026 and includes new aircraft hangars and airside infrastructure. The new terminal is expected to be operational by 2029. Long-term plans for King Salman International Airport include: six runways and the ability to accommodate...

If you’re looking for something to do in Riyadh this January, here’s your chance to enjoy food, wellness, and creativity in one unforgettable experience. FoodSphere workshops offer a variety of activities that will spice up your winter calendar. Whether you’re a foodie, a yoga fan, or someone eager to kick off 2026 in a creative way, there’s something special waiting for you. 1. Taste Premium Dates and Saudi Coffee at Musa & Palm If you’ve always wanted to dive deeper into the variety and flavors of dates, this workshop at FoodSphere is a must! At Musa & Palm, you’ll get...

Coffee lovers in Riyadh have something new to look forward to — Pret A Manger is opening in Olaya Towers! This popular UK-based café chain is known for its fresh coffee, quick service, and healthy meals, making it a great choice for busy professionals and anyone who enjoys good food on the go. Founded in London in 1984, Pret has built a reputation for serving organic coffee and freshly made meals without artificial preservatives. Their menu includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, wraps, and pastries, catering to different tastes and dietary needs. If you need a quick but nutritious bite,...

Saudi Arabia is working to preserve its history while embracing the future. A key part of this effort is the Misk Heritage Museum, planned for Diriyah, the birthplace of the Saudi state. Covering 40,000 square meters, the museum will offer a deep dive into Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage. Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the building will blend traditional Najdi architectural features with modern elements, creating a unique and visually striking space. Visitors will be able to explore historical artifacts, interactive exhibits, and art galleries. The museum will also include an arts courtyard and Asaan’s Majlis, a space for discussions, workshops,...

If you spend time in KSA in early March, you may notice more green flags appearing across streets, buildings, and public spaces. That’s because Saudi Flag Day is celebrated every year on March 11, a national occasion dedicated to the Kingdom’s flag and the story behind it. Saudi Flag Day is a relatively recent national observance. It was officially introduced in 2023 to highlight the history and meaning of the national flag. March 11 marks the day in 1937 when King Abdulaziz Al Saud approved the official design of the Saudi national flag, corresponding to 27 Dhu Al Hijja 1355...

Craving that thin, foldable slice like they serve in New York? You’re in luck — Spirito, a new pizza place in Al Malqa, is now open and serving up authentic NY-style pizzas right in Riyadh. Spirito keeps it simple and satisfying. You can grab a whole pizza or just a slice, depending on how hungry you are — or how curious you feel.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by SPIRITO (@spirito_riyadh) Spirito offers a mix of classic and creative choices: meaty Brisket Pizza creamy and rich Burrata Pizza all-time classic Margherita Pizza herby and...

Groove on the Grass is finally coming to Riyadh on October 17, bringing an exciting night of live music, fashion, and food. After nearly a decade of success in the Middle East, the renowned festival is making its debut at JAX Viewpoint in Diriyah, one of the city's most creative hubs. The line-up this year is nothing short of exciting, so be sure to keep dancing all night. International acts in 2025 include Giorgia Angiuli, Glowal, and Henri Bergmann. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Groove On The Grass (@grooveonthegrass.ksa) Here's a look at the local artists...