What to do in Saudi Arabia

The region of AlUla is introducing a new public transport project that aims to improve visitor access to some of Saudi Arabia’s most important heritage sites. The AlUla tramway, expected to launch operational services in the second half of 2027, will become the world’s longest battery-powered, catenary-free tramway. The tramway will cover 22.4 kilometres and include 17 stations, each featuring a distinct architectural design. The route follows the historic path of the former Hijaz railway. It will connect five of AlUla’s most important heritage sites: AlUla Old Town Dadan Jabal Ikmah Nabataean Horizon Hegra Historical City (a UNESCO World Heritage...

A new colour has officially joined the Pantone lineup — and it’s all about tradition, culture, and the desert tones of Saudi Arabia. On April 9, 2025, Diriyah Tan was introduced as a symbol of Diriyah, often called the City of Earth. This sandy-golden hue is more than just a visual trend — it tells a story rooted in the region’s past. So, what exactly is Diriyah Tan?     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by الدرعية | 𝐃𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐘𝐀𝐇 (@visitdiriyah) The shade takes inspiration from the warm, earthy colours of local mud brick buildings. These traditional...

Saudi Arabia’s General Directorate of Passports (Jawazat) has introduced a new policy that allows individuals with expired visit visas to extend their stay for final departure — a move aimed at regulating residency and simplifying the exit process for those who have overstayed their visas. The new initiative came into effect on 1 Muharram 1447 AH (June 26, 2025). It grants a 30-day grace period to all types of visit visa holders whose visas have expired. The extension is strictly for the purpose of final departure and does not permit any further stay or employment in the Kingdom. To make...

As the Esports World Cup 2025 kicks off in Riyadh, visitors to SEF Arena can look forward to more than just high-stakes gaming. Running alongside the global competition is the Street Food Festival, organised by the Culinary Arts Commission. The event will take place from July 10 to 19, at Boulevard City, from 6 PM to 1 AM daily. This culinary activation is designed to showcase the richness of Saudi Arabia’s food culture to both local and international guests. With esports players and fans gathering from all over the world, the festival offers a fitting opportunity to promote Saudi cuisine...

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....

Looking for a winter escape in Riyadh? Head to BLVD World where the snow fun starts on November 15. Riyadh Season 2025 brings back the crowd-favorite Courchevel Zone, delivering the magic of the French Alps right to Saudi Arabia. Snowflakes fall from the ceiling, mountain backdrops set the scene, and a ski lift model adds to the atmosphere. As you explore, you’ll find snowmen, Christmas trees, and statues of winter animals like polar bears and reindeer. There’s even a cozy fire inside an igloo, perfect for warming up and taking a photo. If you’re ready to ski, Courchevel Zone has...

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...

Apple fans in Saudi Arabia now have direct access to the brand’s full product lineup through a newly launched official online store and app. The rollout means you can now browse, shop, and receive Apple products at home — without the need to go through third-party resellers. The store includes Arabic language support, offering a smoother shopping and customer service experience for users in the region. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your device or explore something new, the platform now feels more local. Shoppers can expect a more personalised experience, from model comparisons and recommendations to the ability to customise...

Saudi Arabia’s hottest race — literally — is back this summer. The third edition of AlUla Desert Blaze is taking place on August 15 and 16, 2025, in one of the Kingdom’s most scenic and historic regions. The event offers participants a rare chance to run through UNESCO World Heritage sites while testing their endurance in summer desert heat. There are four race categories to choose from: 5 km 10 km 21.1 km (half-marathon) 42.2 km (full marathon) The 5 km and 10 km races are open to runners aged 16 and above, while the half and full marathons require...

AlUla is adding another architectural and hospitality milestone to its growing list of developments. The AlUla Development Company (UDC), a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), has unveiled the concept for NUMAJ, a 250-room luxury hotel developed in partnership with Marriott International’s Autograph Collection. The property is set to open in 2027. Inspired by both astronomy and cultural heritage, the name NUMAJ takes reference from Nu Ursae Majoris, a star system used by ancient travellers in the region. It also nods to the Arabic phrase Al Kafzah al Ula, or "the first leap," highlighting the spirit of discovery...