What to do in Riyadh

Qiddiya City is quickly becoming the place to be in Saudi Arabia, and soon, it’ll be home to a brand-new hotel. Aquarabia Park Hotel, opening in January 2026, will be a great option for families, adventure seekers, or anyone looking to stay close to all the fun while still being able to relax. The 12-floor hotel is being built right inside Aquarabia Water Park, so guests will have direct access to the water park, so it’s easy to head straight into the fun. Aquarabia Park Hotel will have 550 rooms, combining comfort with fun water-themed touches. The rooms will have...

PUMA Middle East has officially launched the 2025/26 home and away kits for Al Hilal FC, under the banner "Rooted in Glory." With this new drop, the brand pays tribute to the Kingdom’s cultural landscape and the club’s longstanding success as the most decorated football team in both Saudi and Asian history. Both kits are layered with symbolism drawn from Saudi Arabia’s heritage and Al Hilal’s identity.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by PUMA Middle East (@pumame) The home kit takes inspiration from the Najd region’s mud-brick architecture — a reference to the team’s...

Al Suwaidi Garden, a culinary gem within Riyadh Season 2024, invites you to a feast for the senses. From October 12, 2024, to May 1, 2025, Riyadh transforms into a global hub of entertainment, and Al Suwaidi Garden stands out as a must-visit destination for food lovers. Here’s why this spot should top your list. Al Suwaidi Garden offers more than just food — it’s a full-fledged experience. Nestled amidst the bustling city of Riyadh, this serene green oasis serves as a perfect escape. The beautifully landscaped garden paths lead you to a world of tastes, sights, and sounds that...

This summer, Riyadh is turning up the heat for fans of esports. The city will welcome the world’s best teams and players for a seven-week battle for glory at Esports World Cup (EWC) 2026. And if you're craving more than just watching the tournament from your screen at home, this is your chance to be part of the action! There's truly no better place to experience the intensity and thrill of esports than the Saudi capital. The competition will take place in the cutting-edge Boulevard City arena, the perfect spot to experience the best gaming action, celebrity meet-and-greets, and feel...

Northern Saudi Arabia just reached a new milestone in air travel. On February 25, Al Jouf International Airport has officially began operations. From now on, all arrivals and departures are handled at this upgraded hub near Sakakah, built to serve up to 1.6 million passengers annually. Inside the terminal, you’ll find green areas with olive trees, a reference to Al Jouf’s well-known olive production. Facilities at the airport include: 16 check-in counters, including two self-service options 11 arrival and departure gates Five dual passport control counters 648 parking spaces Accessible services are available for passengers with disabilities and similar conditions,...

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...

As the end of Ramadan approaches, many people in Saudi Arabia are already preparing for the holiday. Several Riyadh malls have adjusted their working hours before Eid Al Fitr, opening right after dawn to give visitors a calm window for early shopping. Saudi Arabia has recently confirmed the Eid Al Fitr 2026 holiday dates for both public and private sector employees. It means the festive break, along with the usual rush for gifts, outfits, and family preparations, is just around the corner. With some of the city’s busiest shopping destinations opening as early as 5 AM, there’s now a chance...

Foodies in Riyadh cannot complain about the lack of choice, but even with the abundance of great dining spots, there’s always room for new concepts. If you’re in the mood for something original, Blackish, a brand-new spot offering American-Asian street food, should be on your radar. Located in the Mohammadiya district, it brings bold, smoky flavours to the table. Whether you're dropping by for a quick bite or looking for a chill place to eat, Blackish offers a relaxed vibe where you can enjoy great food with friends. View this post on Instagram A post shared by BLACKISH (@blackish.ksa) The...

Riyadh Air is taking luxury travel to the next level with the opening of its first-ever dedicated premium space, Hafawa Lounge, located between Terminals 1 and 2 at King Khalid International Airport. This new lounge marks an exciting step for Saudi Arabia’s national airline, offering a top-tier experience that sets the bar high for both domestic and international travelers. The name 'Hafawa,' which means warmth and hospitality in Arabic, truly reflects the welcoming spirit Riyadh Air aims to provide its guests. Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, Hafawa Lounge will be available for guests holding Business Elite or Business Class...

If you spend time in KSA in early March, you may notice more green flags appearing across streets, buildings, and public spaces. That’s because Saudi Flag Day is celebrated every year on March 11, a national occasion dedicated to the Kingdom’s flag and the story behind it. Saudi Flag Day is a relatively recent national observance. It was officially introduced in 2023 to highlight the history and meaning of the national flag. March 11 marks the day in 1937 when King Abdulaziz Al Saud approved the official design of the Saudi national flag, corresponding to 27 Dhu Al Hijja 1355...