What to do in Riyadh

Looking for something new to check out during Riyadh Season 2025? Here’s a beloved family-friendly free zone that’s now open and ready for you: Riyadh Zoo! From giraffes reaching for the sky to flamingos strutting their stuff, it brings you up close to wildlife in a way that’s both fun and informative. The zoo is split into several zones, each with something unique to offer: Almalaz Bay: start your visit with Owl House, Farm Experience, and Kangaroo Yard Ape Escape where you can meet chimpanzees, orangutans, lemurs, and other primates Enchanted Forest: this African-themed area lets you feed giraffes, meet...

Saudi Arabia's urban transformation is in full swing, with new facilities, state-of-the-art stadiums for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, and expanded airports all in the works. Among these changes, Jeddah is also seeing some huge progress. The long-forgotten Jeddah Metro project has been revived and given the green light after years of delays. What was once just an idea is now on track to become a reality, with new details finally emerging about what’s to come. Jeddah Metro: First Details about Lines and Stations The idea for metro in the city first emerged in the early 2010s. After years of...

If you’re planning to stream Squid Game 3, you can now match your snack game to the series. Maestro Pizza has launched a special menu in partnership with Netflix, offering themed items based on the hit show — and it’s available for a limited time in Riyadh. The highlight is 456 Pizza, inspired by the show’s lead character and visual motifs. Topped with chicken, green peppers, and finished with a ranch swirl, the pizza channels the colours and mood of Squid Game. It comes in medium or large sizes, with a choice of dough, plus the option to customise further...

Things just got even more thrilling in the Saudi Pro League. Karim Benzema has officially joined Al Hilal FC after spending three successful seasons at Al-Ittihad. This last-day transfer could be exactly what the club needs to claim the title this season. The French football player is no stranger to success, with 25 trophies from his time at Real Madrid. We’re talking five Champions League titles and four La Liga wins. Now, he’s bringing that winning mentality to Al Hilal, and it’s got the potential to really shake things up in the league. View this post on Instagram A post...

If you’ve ever planned a trip to Diriyah and immediately thought about traffic, this news is about to change the picture. Riyadh metro is officially heading to the birthplace of Saudi Arabia. The city has approved an extension of the Red Line, adding 5 more stations and stretching the route all the way to Diriyah Gate. The new section will covers 8.4 km and link areas many people already move between daily: from university zones to business districts and cultural spots. Riyadh metro only launched in late 2024, and since then it’s been adding new stations and polishing how things...

A slice of French culinary heritage has landed in Riyadh. Lenôtre Paris, the renowned artisanal pastry house, has opened its first Saudi location in Laysen Valley, with another on the way in Lumière Centre. Known for refined presentation and technique, the brand brings with it decades of pastry expertise, now available to sample in the Kingdom. Originally founded in 1957 by Gaston and Colette Lenôtre, the concept has long stood as a symbol of French gastronomy. Their first boutique opened near Normandy, and in 1971, the Lenôtre School was established in Plaisir (Yvelines) to share culinary excellence with future generations....

Hajj is a journey most people prepare for long before the time comes. If you’re ready to take that step now, registration is open for citizens and residents of Saudi Arabia. You can submit your application online through the Nusuk app or on the official website https://hajj.nusuk.sa. Before applying, make sure you meet the following: You must be at least 15 years old (Gregorian calendar) You must meet the approved health requirements Residents must have a valid residency permit (iqama). Priority will be given to those whose iqama was issued more than one Gregorian year ago You can read more...

Riyadh Season is kicking off with a bang as UFC Power Slap 17 returns to Mohammed Abdo Arena on October 31. If you haven’t seen Power Slap before, it’s exactly what it sounds like: two contestants going head-to-head with some serious slapping action. And this time, the stakes are higher than ever. The night will be headlined by the welterweight title clash between the undefeated Anthony “Babyface” Blackburn vs No. 4 contender Cole “Full Send” Young. Blackburn, who has held the belt since Power Slap 8, is known for his precision and calm under pressure. But Young, coming off a...

Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations to improve public health and create a safer commercial environment across the Kingdom. The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has approved measures banning tobacco shops within 500 meters of mosques and schools. This decision is part of the government's ongoing efforts to regulate tobacco sales and ensure that the surrounding areas remain safe and free from the influences of smoking products. The new regulations cover all stores selling tobacco products, including cigarettes, shisha, and e-cigarettes. To operate, tobacco shops must meet certain conditions, including holding a valid commercial registration and obtaining approval from Civil...

Saudi National Day is just around the corner, falling on 23rd September, and it’s the perfect time to join the celebrations across the country.  It’s a public holiday, so why not make the most of it by exploring some fun and exciting events happening in Riyadh, AlUla, Jeddah, and Dammam?  Whether you're with family, or friends, or flying solo, there's something special waiting for everyone! Here are a few top spots to check out during this festive time. Riyadh Glory Energy at Mishkat Interactive Exhibition From the 19th to the 21st September, the Mishkat Interactive Exhibition in Riyadh is hosting...