What to do in Riyadh - Latest News

Pickl has officially opened in Riyadh, bringing its well-known burger concept from Dubai to two new spots in the Saudi capital: AlNakheel Mall (with 96 seats indoors and 16 outside) and U-Walk (with 98 indoor seats and 24 outdoors). These are the first dine-in locations for the brand in Saudi Arabia. Known for its approach to comfort food like chicken sandos, tenders, and milkshakes, Pickl brings a consistent experience wherever it goes. Now in Riyadh, locals and visitors can try the brand’s signature burgers and other offerings.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Pickl...

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has made it easier for pilgrims from the Gulf region to perform Umrah by expanding access and streamlining the process. Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries can now perform Umrah at any time of the year, entering the Kingdom through land, air, or sea ports. All pilgrims are required to obtain an Umrah permit through the official Nusuk application. The same applies to those who wish to pray in Rawdah Al Sharifah, the revered chamber in the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina. The move is part of broader efforts to enhance the pilgrimage...

Riyadh’s public transportation system continues to grow with the latest addition to the Orange Line (Line 3) of the Riyadh Metro. Hassan bin Thabit Street, officially opened by the Public Transport Authority, is the newest stop on one of the capital’s most important transit corridors. The Orange Line stretches 41 kilometres, running from Jeddah Road in the west to the Second Eastern Ring Road near Khashm Al Aan in the east. The new stop is located between An Naseem and Khashm Al Aan (terminus). The newly opened station is expected to: Improve daily commute options for residents and visitors Relieve...

Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has introduced a new policy that allows individuals with expired visit visas to extend their stay for final departure — a move aimed at regulating residency and simplifying the exit process for those who have overstayed their visas. The new initiative came into effect on 1 Muharram 1447 AH (June 26, 2025). It grants a 30-day grace period to all types of visit visa holders whose visas have expired. The extension is strictly for the purpose of final departure and does not permit any further stay or employment in the Kingdom. To make...

The esports scene in Saudi Arabia is getting a major boost. True Gamers, a leading name in global esports cafés with more than 160 clubs worldwide, is coming to Riyadh — and not with just one location, but two. Already a well-established name in regions like Belarus, Russia, and the UAE, True Gamers is known for its futuristic design, tournament-ready setups, and dedicated zones for every kind of gamer. Now, the Saudi capital is next in line as the brand accelerates its expansion across the GCC.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by True Esports...

Saudi Arabia has announced a significant shake-up in its retail landscape. A new regulation bans small grocery stores (baqalas) and kiosks from selling a specific list of products, including tobacco, fresh produce, meat, and dates, as part of a broader effort to streamline and formalise the country’s retail sector. The directive, issued by Majed Al Hogail, Minister of Municipalities and Housing, is effective immediately. However, existing small grocers will have six months to adjust and comply with the new requirements. Products Now Banned from Sale in Small Grocery Stores: Regular and electronic cigarettes Shisha products Fruits and vegetables Dates Meat...

Riyadh is gearing up for an electrifying summer as the Esports World Cup 2025, formerly known as Gamers8, takes center stage at The Venue in Riyadh City. From July 18th to August 7th, this grand event will unite the world's top gamers for an unforgettable experience. But that's not all, the excitement doesn't stop when the gaming ends. Thanks to a collaboration with MDLBeast, the Esports World Cup has introduced AFT_r, a series of spectacular after-show concerts. Every Thursday night, visitors can look forward to thrilling performances from renowned artists. Here's what you can expect each week. Esports World Cup...

If you’ve been swept up in the global Labubu craze, you’re not alone. These little creatures with pointy ears and playful expressions have taken over everything from toy stores to social media feeds. And now, Riyadh has introduced its very own twist on the trend: Lanunu, a pocket-sized collectible you can take with you everywhere. WHOA TEA & Desserts, a popular café in Riyadh, is behind this creative launch. Order any beverage from their menu, and you’ll receive a Lanunu keychain as a complimentary treat. It’s small, portable, and made to clip right onto your bag or keys.    ...

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)...

Saudi Arabia is now laying the groundwork for Riyadh Expo 2030, set to run from 1 October 2030 to 31 March 2031. The Expo site, located in the north of the capital between KAPSARC and King Khalid International Airport, will span over six million square metres and is expected to welcome 40 million visitors in person and more than 1 billion virtually. Following its winning bid in November 2023 — where Riyadh secured 119 out of 173 votes, defeating Rome and Busan — the country is investing SAR 29.3 billion into the project. The goal is to present a forward-looking,...