What to do in Riyadh - Latest News

Currently, it takes over six hours to travel between Riyadh and Doha by road, but that will soon change! Saudi Arabia and Qatar have just signed an agreement for a high-speed rail project that will cut the journey time between their capitals to just two hours. The project could be completed in as little as six years, and both countries have ambitious plans for this development. Here are the first details about the rail network between Riyadh and Doha: The rail link will reduce the travel time between Riyadh and Doha to just 2 hours Trains will travel at speeds...

Riyadh’s food scene just got a little more flavorful with the arrival of Maman, a new restaurant that brings soulful Persian cuisine to the city. Located in the heart of the Hittin District on Prince Turki Bin Abdulaziz Al Awwal Road, Maman invites you to experience the warmth and comfort of Iranian home cooking in a space that feels like you’ve stepped into a cozy family home. Drawing inspiration from the classic Iranian family table, the menu offers a contemporary twist on traditional Persian dishes. Expect hearty, slow-cooked stews, succulent grilled meats, fragrant rice, and freshly baked breads that come...

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...

Wondering what’s making Riyadh buzz this December? It’s Riyadh Music Week 2025 (RMW25), running from December 4 to 13. This weeklong event is bringing music, creativity, and innovation together in a way that’s never been seen before in Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re into big concerts or intimate music sessions, RMW25 has it all. Riyadh Music Week will have a strong focus on uncovering the next generation of artists. With small, more personal events taking place in warehouses, cafés, studios, and open-air spaces, you'll get no shortage of entertainment. XP Music Futures 2025 (December 4-6) This year, the event will feature...

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...

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...

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...

Cristiano Ronaldo is cleared to play in the 2026 World Cup after FIFA issued a partially suspended ban for his recent red card. The football star was originally given a three-match suspension following his elbowing incident against Ireland, but two of those matches have been suspended under a one-year probation period. The third match was already served during Portugal’s qualification-clinching win over Armenia. With this decision, Ronaldo will be available to play in Portugal's opening World Cup match. The 2026 tournament will be his last chance to compete for the trophy, as the legendary player has confirmed it will be...

W Hotels, known for its stylish atmosphere, is making its debut in Saudi Arabia with W Riyadh KAFD. Guests will be able to experience its signature offerings as early as 2026. The hotel will feature 210 rooms and suites, seven restaurants, and shops. As part of the brand’s classic offerings, W Riyadh will include Living Room, a social space that’s perfect for meeting up, along with the WET Deck pool area and spa for ultimate relaxation. For those looking to stay active, the fitness centre will have everything you need to stay in shape. This will be the first W...

Diriyah Season 2025-26 is in full swing, promising a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and art in Ad-Diriyah, the birthplace of Saudi Arabia. This annual event offers a wide range of activities for visitors to explore, from historical exhibits and interactive workshops to fine dining and outdoor experiences. This year’s theme, “Where You Experience Legacy,” captures the spirit of the season perfectly by blending centuries of history, heritage, and art into a modern cultural experience. Taking place across multiple stunning locations, such as Diriyah’s parks, wadis, Bujairi Terrace, and UNESCO World Heritage Site At-Turaif, the event will highlight what makes...