What to do in Riyadh

Egyptian singer and songwriter Bayou is making his way to Saudi Arabia this July, bringing his unique bilingual sound to live audiences in two major cities. The artist will perform in Jeddah on 17 July at Onyx Arena, followed by a show in Riyadh on 18 July as part of the MDLBeast Festival. This marks a special return for Bayou, born Adham Bayoumi, who spent part of his early life in Jeddah before moving to Dubai. His music blends Arabic and English, shaped by influences from both the Middle East and the UK, where he also lived. Bayou first gained...

Riyadh Season is returning with a bang, with new events being announced every day. An exciting addition is the UFC Power Slap, which will be making its debut in Saudi Arabia on February 1, 2025. What is Power Slap? If you’re unfamiliar with Power Slap, the name says it all. This sport is all about power and precision, where two competitors go head-to-head in a series of slaps—yes, slaps. The goal is simple: deliver the hardest, most accurate slap to knock down your opponent. But there’s more to it than just brute strength. Each match is structured and follows specific...

A new culinary experience is coming to Riyadh, and it’s not your typical fine dining restaurant. Julien by Daniel Boulud, set to open inside the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, will offer a highly exclusive chef’s table experience — limited to just 10 seats. This intimate concept is the latest creation from Chef Daniel Boulud, celebrated globally for his refined approach to French cuisine. Julien will take the idea of a tasting menu to new heights with a multi-sensory, live-cooking format that blends hospitality and performance. Guests will be seated around a marble-topped chef’s counter in a hidden...

The excitement is building for XP Music Futures 2025, coming back to Riyadh this December! Hosted by MDLBeast, this epic event celebrates the region’s growing music scene and creative energy from December 4 to 6, 2025 at JAX District in Riyadh. After the success of previous editions, this year promises even more energy, new faces, and fresh talent from both the region and beyond. While the official theme is still under wraps, you can expect a festival that continues to push boundaries and bring the latest trends in music and culture. The event provides a unique playground for artists, professionals,...

Riyadh’s dining scene continues to grow, and the arrival of Abou el Sid adds a rich cultural note to the mix. Known for serving authentic Egyptian cuisine for over two decades, this beloved Cairo-born restaurant has officially opened in The Esplanade, following its debut in Jeddah. With interiors inspired by a traditional Egyptian household, the new Riyadh branch balances nostalgia and comfort. The space features patterned tiled floors, minimalist wooden furniture, and soft turquoise couches. Walls adorned with retro photos and soft lighting create a relaxed and familiar atmosphere, enhanced by Tanoura dance performances during select evenings.     View...

A new law in Saudi Arabia will soon allow foreign individuals and companies to own property in the Kingdom, starting from January 2026. This marks a major policy shift aimed at supporting Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s national strategy to grow the economy beyond oil and attract more international investment. Under the new rules, expats living in the Gulf and foreign investors abroad will be able to purchase real estate in approved areas, even without Saudi citizenship. The law covers both individuals and companies, making this open to a broad range of buyers. At the moment, a list of approved zones...

After the successful launch this spring, Downtown Design Riyadh will return for its second edition next February, promising even more excitement and inspiration. The Middle East's leading fair for high-quality and contemporary design will take place from February 3 to 6, 2026, at JAX District. While the full lineup for the 2026 edition hasn’t been revealed yet, it’s sure to be another incredible showcase of international and local talent. The first edition included big names like Saint Louis, Visionnaire, Scarlet Splendour, Natuzzi, and Huda Lighting, as well as some incredible Saudi designers. View this post on Instagram A post shared...

Armani is bringing its signature design flair to the heart of Saudi Arabia, and this time, it's not just in your wardrobe — it’s where you could be living. The brand’s newest venture, Armani Residences in Diriyah, is a high-end living experience that blends Italian sophistication with the traditional charm of Najdi architecture. Located right next to the Armani Hotel in Diriyah, this upcoming residential collection features 15 fully furnished homes, personally curated by Giorgio Armani. Each space is crafted with attention to detail, showcasing a mix of Armani/Casa, Armani Dada, and Armani Roca designs — bringing the brand’s iconic...

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 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...