What to do in Riyadh

A day at the zoo is back on the list. Riyadh Zoo has reopened after maintenance, and you can once again explore its animal zones and get close to wildlife. If you’re planning a visit, here’s everything you need to know about 2026 timings, zones, and the animals you can see there. Opening hours of Riyadh Zoo in 2026 Monday to Saturday: 8:30 AM until sunset Friday: 1 PM until sunset Sunday: Closed Gates close at 4:30 PM What's Inside Riyadh Zoo You’ll move through different themed areas, each with its own animals and experiences: Go to Almalaz Bay where...

Riyadh’s coffee culture is on the rise, and if you're exploring the city, there’s a new place to add to your list: Lumin Roastery, located in Al Malqa. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this new spot is perfect for your next coffee break. Lumin Roastery has a sleek and modern feel. Its large glass windows and dark wood accents give the place an inviting, minimalistic look. The outdoor seating area is simple and comfortable, with light-colored cushions on wooden benches and small tables — perfect for those who want to enjoy a coffee outdoors. Inside, the cozy...

Travel in Saudi Arabia is about to get easier with Riyadh Rail Link, a 35-kilometre double-track corridor running north to south across the capital. The line will connect the North–South railway with the Eastern railway, making journeys faster and smoother for passengers. Riyadh Rail Link is part of the Saudi Landbridge. Key elements of this project include: Direct travel between Riyadh and Jeddah via a 900-kilometre line to King Abdullah Port Upgraded Riyadh–Dammam corridor for faster and more reliable trips Connections to King Abdullah Economic City and Yanbu for easier access to key destinations Once operational, the new rail link...

There's good news for everyone flying in or out of Riyadh. Terminal 2 at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) has officially opened after a major redevelopment, bringing the long-running upgrade of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to a close. The expanded terminal offers more space for faster check-in, security control, and boarding areas, which helps reduce crowding during busy travel periods. With the additional capacity, the airport can also handle more flights at the same time. The reopening comes alongside other recent changes at the airport. Hafawa Lounge is planned to be built between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, offering...

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has made an important announcement for those planning to perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia. Holders of any type of visa are now eligible to perform Umrah in the Kingdom. With this update, travelers from a broader range of backgrounds now have the opportunity to embark on this significant spiritual journey. Whether traveling for work, family visits, or just passing through Saudi Arabia, anyone holding a valid visa can now easily access the Umrah experience. This includes: personal and family visit visas electronic tourist visas transit visas work visas In August 2025, the Ministry also...

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...

Qatar has announced an important update for GCC residents who plan to visit the country. The visit visa period has been extended from one month to two months. Travelers can also apply for a multiple-entry permit. These changes were introduced on November 30 and are available through the Haya platform, according to Qatar Tourism. The aim of this update is to make travel more convenient for GCC visitors. Qatar continues to host many cultural, sports and entertainment events, especially in the years following the FIFA World Cup 2022. A longer stay and the option to enter the country multiple times...

Harvey Nichols Riyadh has launched its annual Ramadan Caravan, a special pop-up celebrating regional fashion and homeware for the season. Running until April 4, the event brings together over 35 designers from Saudi Arabia and the region, offering a selection of abayas, dresses, kaftans, bags, shoes, and elegant home decor for iftar and Ramadan gatherings. Located at Al Faisaliah Center in Olaya, the Ramadan Caravan has been a tradition for a decade, growing each year to highlight more talent from across the region. The space is inspired by Najdi architecture, blending traditional elements with a modern shopping experience.    ...

If you enjoy seeing historic places get a new life instead of disappearing, here's the project worth your attention! Part of Al-Zal Souq is turning into Azzal Street Food, bringing open-air dining into one of the city’s oldest areas. The plan includes outdoor seating, walkable pathways, and affordable food stalls serving local Saudi dishes. Al-Zal Souq has been operating since 1901. It's one of Riyadh’s oldest and most visited markets, known for antiques, traditional carpets, and small heritage finds. In 2005, it was restored to maintain its historic look, and it continues to draw visitors. Instead of changing what makes...

Looking for a new spot to hang out in Riyadh? Check out Cup Matee, the city's first matte food truck! They’re serving up authentic Syrian matte lattes and cheesy mini kunafa bites. If you don’t feel like drinking your matte on the go, there's seating space to relax and enjoy your order. Matte is a popular South American drink made from the leaves of the mate plant. It has a herbal flavor with a touch of earthy notes. Often enjoyed as an energy booster, matte can be enjoyed both hot and cold. If you prefer something creamier, try matte with...