What to do in Riyadh

This winter, Riyadh will host a truly historic weekend! WWE Royal Rumble is coming to Saudi Arabia for the first time ever, and this one is extra special as it’s the first time this event is being held outside of North America. January 31 promises to become the biggest day of the year as King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) will turn into the battleground for this legendary showdown. The ring will be packed with WWE’s biggest superstars, all competing for a chance to headline WrestleMania. Before the main event, WWE SmackDown will kick off the action on January 30, so...

Riyadh isn’t the same city it was a few years ago. The skyline keeps changing, new districts are taking shape, and global names are lining up to claim their spot in the capital. Now, another major player is stepping in. The Riyadh EDITION is officially on its way to the KSA capital. There’s no confirmed location or opening date. The Riyadh EDITION will become the third property for the brand in Saudi Arabia, joining The Jeddah EDITION and The Red Sea EDITION coming to Shura Island. Each of those hotels brought a different energy to its city. At the Red...

Looking for a fresh spot to enjoy Japanese cuisine in Riyadh? A new restaurant has just arrived, bringing a taste of Japan to the city. Located on As Siddiq Road, EDO is in its soft opening phase, offering a menu packed with classic and modern Japanese dishes. At EDO, you’ll find a variety of options, from light appetizers to hearty mains. The menu features gyoza, ramen, poke bowls, sushi, nigiri, and yakitori. Sushi lovers can enjoy favorites like California Rolls, Philadelphia Rolls, and Shrimp Sushi. If you’re in the mood for something filling, try the Casher Chicken, made with crispy...

This August, Terhal is making its return to Diriyah. Hosted by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture, the second edition of this immersive theatrical production will run from August 4 to 25, 2025 at Mayadeen, Diriyah, one of Riyadh’s most historic venues. The production blends theatrical storytelling with visuals, using lighting and special effects to bring Saudi Arabia’s landscapes and history to life. From mountains and deserts to bustling cities and quiet villages, Terhal paints a vivid portrait of the Kingdom’s geographic and cultural richness.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by وزارة الثقافة MOC (@mocsaudi)...

When it comes to entertainment, Saudi Arabia is never short on options. From thrilling events to groundbreaking experiences, the Kingdom is always bringing something new to the table. Sandbox VR, the immersive virtual reality experience, is set to open soon in Saudi Arabia. What is Sandbox VR? Sandbox VR is an innovative VR adventure where you and up to five friends can roam freely in a fully immersive virtual world. Using full-body motion capture and high-quality haptics, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another dimension. Whether you’re tackling zombies, exploring the high seas, or soaring through the sky, each experience...

If you love board games, you’ll definitely want to check it out. Monopoly Riyadh edition is now available, and it’s a fun new way to explore the city you know and love from the comfort of your home. If you’re looking for something different for a gift or a souvenir, this is a cool and memorable options. This version of the classic game showcases Riyadh’s most famous landmarks, from the ultra-modern King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) to the historical charm of Souk Al-Zal. This edition features a mix of both old and new sites, making it a true reflection of...

The excitement is building for XP Music Futures 2025, coming back to Riyadh this December! Hosted by MDLBeast, this epic event celebrates the region’s growing music scene and creative energy from December 4 to 6, 2025 at JAX District in Riyadh. After the success of previous editions, this year promises even more energy, new faces, and fresh talent from both the region and beyond. While the official theme is still under wraps, you can expect a festival that continues to push boundaries and bring the latest trends in music and culture. The event provides a unique playground for artists, professionals,...

Looking for something truly special? Wrth Ramadan Market in Riyadh is the place to be! From February 15 to 17, this market will let you explore the rich craftsmanship of Saudi Arabia and connect with artisans and witness their work in person. Visitors will find a range of crafts on display, including jewelry, pottery, Sadu weaving, woodworking, and leatherwork. The market also provides an opportunity to engage in interactive workshops, giving you a hands-on experience with traditional crafts. Beyond the items for sale, Wrth Ramadan Market highlights the importance of preserving Saudi heritage and empowering local artisans. It’s an event...

Next week, Riyadh will host one of the world’s most iconic operas. Carmen will make its debut in the city on September 4-6, 2025. This classic piece by French composer Georges Bizet will be staged at King Fahad Cultural Centre, marking an exciting addition to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. First performed in 1875, the opera tells the story of a passionate and intense love triangle. The plot follows Carmen, a free-spirited factory worker, and Don José, a soldier whose life she disrupts with her charm. As their relationship spirals into jealousy and betrayal, the drama builds to a powerful...

If you’re looking for a free event in Riyadh that actually feels worth your time, Traditional Arts Festival is one to check out. It brings together different sides of Saudi culture, and you can visit until April 8. Here, you’ll find live performances, workshops, and exhibitions, so you can watch, join in, or do a bit of both. One of the parts people tend to gather around is the Nabati poetry evenings. These are live, interactive sessions where poets respond to each other on the spot. If you’d rather get involved, the workshops are a good place to start. They...