8 cool things to do in Riyadh this weekend: January 20 to 22
Happy weekend…
Looking for some activities to fill your weekend? We’ve got you covered. Riyadh’s social calendar is packed with things to do, from art programmes and exhibitions to exciting dining concepts. Here are eight cool things to do in Riyadh this weekend.
Thursday January 20
1. Check out aura’s unique exhibition at Saudi Design Festival
In collaboration with budding furniture designer Andréa Abou-Fadel, aura showcases a range of refined table designs, the ‘Andrea Tables’ set with a distinctive Arabesque pattern. The home furnishing brand has also collaborated with local organisations Herfa Association and Ketcha Studio to create a distinctive multifunctional side table to preserve the cultural heritage of crafts. The exhibition wall space will spotlight aura’s extensive dinnerware range through outstanding plate fixtures in pastel, black, and gold colours, making for a perfect Instagram moment.
Saudi Design Festival, JAX District, until Jan 29. @saudidesignfestival
2. Eat to the beat at Yauatcha
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One of our favourite restaurants in Riyadh gets turned up with dance music from DJ Don Edwardo. So, head on over to Yauatcha’s rooftop for some party vibes as you tuck into an array of modern Chinese fare.
Yauatcha Riyadh, Mode Al Faisaliah, Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh 11433. Jan 19 to 21, 8pm to midnight. Book your table here. Tel: 9200 06555. @yauatchariyadh
3. Discover more about the Islamic holy book
Trace the history of the Holy Qur’an at this exhibition held for the first time in Riyadh. It introduces visitors to the story and stages of establishing the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur’an in Madinah and a set of corners that show information on the annual and total prints of the complex, as well as stages of printing the Holy Qur’an. The most popular exhibit is the story behind printing the Holy Qur’an in braille. Plus, as a gesture of goodwill, every visitor will receive a copy of the Holy Qur’an.
The Holy Quran Exhibition, Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance HQ, Al Olaya, Coordinates: MMVM+43, Until Jan 21, 4.30pm to 10.30pm. Tel: 011 223 6222.
Friday January 21
4. Converge at Dirab Park for the Spartan race
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You’ll never see an obstacle race quite like this one. Designed to test mental fortitude and physical strength, the Spartan Race showcases many gruelling obstacles. Watch competitors climb, sprint, crawl, jump and push their way to the finish line.
Spartan Race, Dirab Motor Park, Jan 21, 7am to 4pm. @spartanarabia
5. A gastronomic weekend getaway at Mamo
We can’t think of a better place to spend a blissful weekend. “A La Royale” quail eggs topped with Imperial caviar, prime Australian beef carpaccio and a seabass fillet grilled to perfection are some of the items to look forward to at Mamo’s weekend brunch.
Mamo Weekend Brunch, Mamo Michelangelo, King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12212, every Fri and Sat, 12.30pm to 3.30pm. SAR750 per person. Book your table here. Tel: 9200 00874. @mamomichelangeloksa
6. Partake in the Riyadh Art Hub discussion
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An immersive creative space that invites everyone to enjoy creative and joyful experiences, the Riyadh Art Hub runs an engaging and inspiring programme, including daily activities, twice-monthly workshops, and a monthly discussion. This weekend, engage in the hub’s Art and Sustainability discussion and explore the influence of sustainability in artistic design and practices.
Riyadh Front, Gate 8, Jan 21, 8pm to 9pm. Book your visit here. @riyadhartofficial
Saturday January 22
7. Indulge in Meraki’s all-new Saturday Garden Brunch
End your weekend right with a leisurely garden brunch at Meraki. The menu will celebrate contemporary Greek cooking in a chic and vibrant setting. Brunchers looking for a tipple can choose from Meraki’s innovative mocktail menu. Plus, enjoy live music performances by musicians and bands, and soak in the good vibes with DJ Romaan spinning the best tracks to bask in the brunch buzz.
Garden Brunch, Meraki Riyadh, Al Moatasem Street, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12212, every Saturday, 1pm to 4pm. SAR395 per person. Tel: 9200 01050. @merakiriyadh
8. Make your way to Riyadh Oasis
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Among the 14 Riyadh Season zones returning for the 2021/22 edition is Riyadh Oasis, a pop-up leisure and dining destination set on the city’s outskirts. Running until the end of February, Riyadh Oasis features restaurant pop-ups from Novikov, Antika and Opa to live music performances.
Riyadh Oasis, Riyadh 13495, until Feb 28. Reservations for the restaurants can be made via The Chefz app. @riyadhseason
Images: Instagram