What to do in Riyadh

If you love board games, you’ll definitely want to check it out. Monopoly Riyadh edition is now available, and it’s a fun new way to explore the city you know and love from the comfort of your home. If you’re looking for something different for a gift or a souvenir, this is a cool and memorable options. This version of the classic game showcases Riyadh’s most famous landmarks, from the ultra-modern King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) to the historical charm of Souk Al-Zal. This edition features a mix of both old and new sites, making it a true reflection of...

Riyadh is set for a night that feels a little more personal than your usual concert. On April 2, Couplet Sessions takes over Abu Bakr Salem Theater (Cultural Palace), turning the evening into a shared experience between artist and audience, where the playlist isn’t fixed and the crowd plays a big part in what happens next. This interactive music night is built around a simple idea: you don’t just sit and listen but take part. The audience can request songs, sing along, and shape the atmosphere. To give you a better idea of the kind of songs you might hear,...

Riyadh is about to take your fitness routine to a whole new level. GymNation Middle East has launched what might just be the most epic fitness class in the world: at 650+ meters above the city in a hot-air balloon. Every Saturday this January, you can join a workout that gives you more than just a good burn. You’ll be sweating it out with a jaw-dropping view of Riyadh’s skyline. The experience starts with a warm-up on the ground before you take off, and then it’s 30 minutes of full-body strength and conditioning. Get ready for Cloud Crushers (squats), Overhead...

Art lovers in Saudi Arabia, get ready for one of the most exciting events in the global art scene. Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026 is coming back to the capital. This marks the third edition of the Biennale, which will unfold across various artists' studios and exhibition venues in JAX District, an area already home to many notable art spaces. The event will take place from January 30 to April 23, 2026. The event promises to offer a diverse range of exhibitions and installations that highlight the creativity of both local and international artists. The 2026 edition will be led...

Café Boulud — the French fine dining spot at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre — continues to evolve. This time, the restaurant led by French chef and restaurateur Daniel Boulud has launched a cheese and non-alcoholic wine library, a first-of-its-kind concept in the Saudi capital. The offering is curated by Philippe Caillouet, Riyadh's first French cheesemonger and a respected name in the cheese world, who also personally guides guests through pairings, explaining textures, flavour profiles, and the best beverage matches.     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Café Boulud Riyadh (@cafebouludriy) Saudi's first...

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...

Food lovers in Riyadh have something new to look forward to! Kantami, known for its bold take on Japanese cuisine, is coming soon to Nawaf Square, Al Malqa. This is the second location for the brand, after its success in Al Khobar, and it’s the first time they’ve bringing their concept to the capital. Kantami takes inspiration from Kintsugi, the Japanese art of mending broken ceramics with gold, celebrating the beauty found in imperfection. This philosophy flows through both the design and the menu. The food is all about reimagining Japanese comfort dishes, with familiar favorites and unique twists. View...

London’s iconic restaurants The Wolseley and Colbert are stepping into the hospitality world in a new way. Minor Hotels, in partnership with the Wolseley Hospitality Group, has announced plans to launch four hotel brands inspired by the well-known dining spots. At the core of this expansion is a focus on food-driven travel. The Colbert Collection is set to open in the Middle East, although the exact city and launch date are still under wraps. The brand aims to appeal to guests who seek authentic, neighbourhood-style experiences, with the restaurant itself forming the heart of the hotel.        ...

Weddings have an undeniable allure, and if you’re ready to explore what makes them truly special, don’t miss "A Night of a Lifetime" in Riyadh. This winter and spring, the exhibition offers a chance to explore the cultural, emotional, and symbolic layers behind weddings, far beyond just the celebration. It brings together over 30 artists from Saudi Arabia and beyond to explore marriage as both a personal journey and a public celebration. Through photography, sculpture, video, and mixed media, the exhibition looks at weddings from intimate moments to symbolic rituals, shedding light on what makes them so meaningful. View this...

Riyadh is quickly becoming the go-to spot for entertainment, and the city has no plans to slow down anytime soon. The latest addition is The Pool Club, opening this November in the Diplomatic Quarter at Al Safarat. This new venue comes from the same team behind MDLBeast, in partnership with attaché. As expected, The Pool Club promises to be more than just a poolside hangout. This exclusive, members-only venue blends wellness, design, and culture, creating a space that’s perfect for those looking for a relaxed but sophisticated atmosphere. Expect a curated experience that includes cabana lounges, poolside dining, and a...