What to do in Riyadh

Riyadh’s restaurant scene just got a little more exciting with the opening of Pantera Riyadh. This modern Mediterranean spot, located in As Sulimaniyah on Tahlia Street, is the new place to check out for fresh food and a relaxed, stylish vibe. Taking over the spot that was once Isabel Mayfair, Pantera has brought a cool twist to the local dining scene. The restaurant has a sleek Art Deco feel, with a unique layout that includes Dining Room, a beautiful Conservatory with a glass roof, and a hidden speakeasy bar. Whether you’re out for a low-key dinner or a night of...

When it comes to entertainment, Saudi Arabia is never short on options. From thrilling events to groundbreaking experiences, the Kingdom is always bringing something new to the table. Sandbox VR, the immersive virtual reality experience, is set to open soon in Saudi Arabia. What is Sandbox VR? Sandbox VR is an innovative VR adventure where you and up to five friends can roam freely in a fully immersive virtual world. Using full-body motion capture and high-quality haptics, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another dimension. Whether you’re tackling zombies, exploring the high seas, or soaring through the sky, each experience...

If you're a fan of classic British comfort food, then you're in for a real treat because The Mayfair Chippy is officially coming in Riyadh! Known for its mouthwatering seafood, the brand is making its way to the Kingdom this summer, bringing with it the British charms and classic fish and chips. The restaurant's menu features a wide range of British favorites, from delicious sandwiches like Fish Finger Butty (fish fingers with pickles and tartar sauce) to hearty classics like Shepherd’s Pie, scotch egg, and fried haddock with mushy peas. And, of course, you can’t go wrong with the crispy,...

Riyadh’s cafe culture continues to thrive with the opening of Ghamra Cafe, a fresh and stylish addition to Ar Rayyan’s Unayzah Street. This inviting new spot has quickly become popular for its elegant interiors and thoughtfully curated menu, offering everything from specialty coffees to a wide variety of unique cakes and pastries. Whether you're stopping by for a morning espresso or a late-night snack, Ghamra Cafe promises an experience as refined as it is delicious.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by غمرة | Ghamra (@ghamracafe) Stepping into Ghamra Cafe, you’ll notice its minimalist and...

Travel in Saudi Arabia is about to get easier with Riyadh Rail Link, a 35-kilometre double-track corridor running north to south across the capital. The line will connect the North–South railway with the Eastern railway, making journeys faster and smoother for passengers. Riyadh Rail Link is part of the Saudi Landbridge. Key elements of this project include: Direct travel between Riyadh and Jeddah via a 900-kilometre line to King Abdullah Port Upgraded Riyadh–Dammam corridor for faster and more reliable trips Connections to King Abdullah Economic City and Yanbu for easier access to key destinations Once operational, the new rail link...

Riyadh’s coffee culture is on the rise, and if you're exploring the city, there’s a new place to add to your list: Lumin Roastery, located in Al Malqa. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this new spot is perfect for your next coffee break. Lumin Roastery has a sleek and modern feel. Its large glass windows and dark wood accents give the place an inviting, minimalistic look. The outdoor seating area is simple and comfortable, with light-colored cushions on wooden benches and small tables — perfect for those who want to enjoy a coffee outdoors. Inside, the cozy...

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 looking for something fun to do in Riyadh this week, Pravasi Parichay cultural festival is the place to be! Hosted by the Embassy of India in DQ, this week-long celebration of India’s rich culture is running until November 3, 2025, and it’s packed with activities, performances, and food from all over India. Each day offers a new region to explore, with everything from classical dance performances to delicious regional dishes. The festival will also feature the Viksit Bharat Art Exhibition, showcasing paintings by talented women artists from the Indian diaspora. View this post on Instagram A post shared...

If you're a foodie in Riyadh, there’s a new place you’ll definitely want to check out: Jareed Samhan. Located in Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah, this restaurant brings traditional Saudi cuisine into the modern day. The menu takes you on a journey to the Nadj region, with classic dishes like muqalal, jareesh, matazeez, and kabsa, but with a modern twist. Chef Saleh Aljabali has taken these timeless recipes and reimagined them with fresh techniques, all while keeping those nostalgic Saudi flavors intact. The vibe at Jareed Samhan is cozy and intimate, making it the perfect place to connect...

There's good news for everyone flying in or out of Riyadh. Terminal 2 at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) has officially opened after a major redevelopment, bringing the long-running upgrade of Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 to a close. The expanded terminal offers more space for faster check-in, security control, and boarding areas, which helps reduce crowding during busy travel periods. With the additional capacity, the airport can also handle more flights at the same time. The reopening comes alongside other recent changes at the airport. Hafawa Lounge is planned to be built between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, offering...