6 wonderful things to do in Riyadh this weekend: June 17 to 19
What’s going down this weekend…
Finding ways to keep you entertained during the weekend? Here’s our pick of six wonderful things to do in Riyadh.
Thursday June 17
Grab a popcorn and watch the latest movies
If you’re into musicals, you’ll love the spirited “In the Heights” movie. The film chronicles the lives of hardworking Latin-Americans – and other diverse characters – who dream big and navigate the odds to persevere and build a robust and supportive community. The musical numbers may make you want to get out of your seat and cheer. And if you do, don’t worry; we won’t judge. Also hitting the screens is Pixar’s latest animated film, “Luca”, which takes place in a picture-perfect seaside town on the Riviera. Like many family-friendly movies, “Luca” has, at its centre, a child who isn’t sure how he fits in. Overall, the visuals are truly stunning, which we don’t think will surprise Pixar fans, and it is an entertaining, family-friendly watch that is a perfect summer film.
Book your tickets here.
Enjoy a seafood night buffet
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Be spoilt for choice with the abundance of seafood buffet that takes centre-stage in the array of multi-cultural cuisines at Seven Restaurant on Thursday nights. Look forward to the extensive fresh seafood, which includes shrimps, calamari, and a variety of fish, being prepared at the live cooking stations. Other highlights include the mouth-watering Thermidor and Seven’s special catch of the week. You’ll be swimming in all the options when you dine at Seven – a seafood extravaganza night not to be missed.
Seven Restaurant, Courtyard by Marriott Riyadh Northern Ring Road, Al Murooj District, Olaya Street, Riyadh 11491, Thurs 7pm to 11pm. Sar170 for adults and half price for children aged six to 12. Tel: 011 521 0000. @courtyardriyadhnorthernring
Friday June 18
Celebrate International Sushi Day at Nobu
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If you’re in the mood for a sushi brunch in Riyadh, look no further than this well-renowned restaurant. In celebration of International Sushi Day and for one day only, Nobu is offering an exclusive selection of its perfectly crafted sushi and sashimi set menu, alongside toro tartare with caviar and salmon miso. Did we mention there’ll be live music, too?
Nobu Restaurant, Nobu Hotel Riyadh, Second floor, King Fahd Rd, Al Anoud Tower 2, Riyadh 11352, 1pm to 4pm. Sar500 per guest (minimum of two guests). Tel: 011 297 8300. @nobuhotelriyadh
Learn about the history of Arabic calligraphy
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“Script and Calligraphy: A Timeless Journey”, which runs until August 21 at the National Museum, is a good place for newcomers to the art form to start, or for those who are already familiar with it, to learn more about its history, from its origins right up the present day. The 1,500-square-meter exhibition highlights the development of the Arabic script from its very beginnings. What’s even more interesting is that you’ll find an artificial intelligence machine, where you can produce a new generative pictographic language onto a digital screen.
National Museum, King Abdulaziz Historical Centre, Al Murabba, Riyadh 12631, Sat, Mon to Thurs 8am to 8pm, Fri 4pm to 8pm, Sun 8am to 2pm. Tel: 011 402 9500. @mocsaudi
Saturday June 19
Rent a bike and explore the city at your own pace
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Discover the beauty of Wadi Hanifah on a high-quality rental bike from Entilaqa. The bicycle store rents durable bikes of all shapes and sizes, and even scooters, at a reasonable price. So, hop on and get ready for an unforgettable adventure exploring charming views around the valley with your friends.
Entilaqa, King Fahad Rd, At Tarif Al Jadid, Ad Diriyah 13712, daily 8pm to 7am. Rental price starts from Sar35 per hour for bicycles and Sar60 per hour for scooters, including helmets. Tel: 050 135 7535. @entilaqa.sa
Escape the scorching heat in an indoor snow park
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If the scorching heat is really getting to you, would you believe us if we said you could experience a magical winter right in the throes of summer? In comes Snow City, the first and only indoor snow park in Saudi Arabia, located conveniently in Al Othaim Mall. It’s great fun for anyone who’s never experienced snow or those feeling a little nostalgic about the romantic snowy winters back home. Plus, look out for fun activities and games that you can do at Snow City.
Snow City, Al Othaim Mall, 7454 Eastern Ring Branch Road, Ar Rabwah, Riyadh 12839, Sat to Thurs noon to midnight & Fri 1pm to midnight. Sar170 per person. Tel: 9200 08331. @snowcityme
Images: Instagram