What to do in Riyadh

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...

If you enjoy trying new beauty products and discovering brands before they turn into social media trends, Beautyworld Riyadh 2026 will you plenty to explore. On May 18-20, the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre will turn into a full-on beauty expo, bringing together skincare, cosmetics, hair tools, fragrances, and everyday essentials. The event is rightfully called the biggest beauty expo in the country. This year, get ready to discover more than 400 exhibitors from over 40 countries. You’ll see well-known brands, but also smaller ones and new launches. It’s a good place to compare, try things out, and see...

Esports fans in Riyadh, there’s something exciting on the horizon! After the success of the Esports World Cup this year, the Esports Nations Cup (ENC) is set to take center stage in Riyadh in November 2026. Unlike other similar events that feature club teams, ENC focuses on the competition between national teams. Popular game publishers like Electronic Arts, Tencent, Krafton, and Ubisoft will be involved, bringing well-known titles such as EA Sports FC, Apex Legends, PUBG, and Rainbow Six into the spotlight. This new competition will feature teams from nearly 100 countries, competing in more than 15 games. Here’s what...

If you're a foodie in Riyadh, there’s a new place you’ll definitely want to check out: Jareed Samhan. Located in Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah, this restaurant brings traditional Saudi cuisine into the modern day. The menu takes you on a journey to the Nadj region, with classic dishes like muqalal, jareesh, matazeez, and kabsa, but with a modern twist. Chef Saleh Aljabali has taken these timeless recipes and reimagined them with fresh techniques, all while keeping those nostalgic Saudi flavors intact. The vibe at Jareed Samhan is cozy and intimate, making it the perfect place to connect...

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...

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...

If you're in Riyadh and a fan of flavorful food, you're in for a real treat. Berenjak, the renowned Persian restaurant, is opening its doors in Via Riyah this April. This will be the brand's third location in the Middle East, following successful openings in the UAE. If you’ve heard about Berenjak’s success in London, where it earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand, or tried it at one of its locations in Dubai and Sharjah, you'll definitely want to check out this new spot in Riyadh. Whether you're into mezze-style plates or delicious kebabs, you'll find something worth trying. View this...

A week of films, conversations, and industry meetups is coming back to Dhahran at the end of April. Saudi Film Festival returns for its 12th edition. The event will take place from April 23 to 29 at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra). This year’s theme, “The Journey,” shapes a programme of feature films, short films, and documentaries from Saudi Arabia and across the Gulf. Tickets for screenings start from SAR 75. The international focus this year is on Korean cinema. Screenings will be paired with discussions featuring Korean filmmakers, along with a cultural seminar and an advanced...

Riyadh is quickly becoming the go-to spot for entertainment, and the city has no plans to slow down anytime soon. The latest addition is The Pool Club, opening this November in the Diplomatic Quarter at Al Safarat. This new venue comes from the same team behind MDLBeast, in partnership with attaché. As expected, The Pool Club promises to be more than just a poolside hangout. This exclusive, members-only venue blends wellness, design, and culture, creating a space that’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed but sophisticated atmosphere. Expect a curated experience that includes cabana lounges, poolside dining, and a...

Riyadh Cake Picnic is coming to town, and cake lovers, this event is made just for you! Mark your calendars for November 22, 2025, because this indoor cake festival will be the biggest one the capital has ever seen. It’s set to be a fun-filled day of everything sweet, from cake tastings to creative baking demos. The event will be held at Qasr Al Arab Hall for Celebrations in Al Naeem. Picture long tables loaded with stunning cakes, the sound of lively chatter, and plenty of music. Whether you’re into rich chocolate desserts or curious about new flavor combinations, you’ll...