7 fun things to do in Riyadh this weekend: February 3 to 5
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 a global tech exhibition and fitness festival to exciting dining destinations.
Here are seven fun things to do in Riyadh this weekend.
Thursday February 3
1. Attend the first edition of the global tech exhibition
If you are interested in new technology and its positive, unlimited potential, here’s your chance to attend the last day of the inaugural LEAP summit. The futuristic set-up and the interactive booths will draw you in to learn more about the technologies of the future.
LEAP 2022, Riyadh Front Expo Centre, 10am onwards. Register here.
2. Dance and sing your hearts out at Hotel Cartagena
View this post on Instagram
For those looking for an entertaining dining experience, what better than to hear music live? On Thursday evening, guests of Hotel Cartagena can expect a live band performance against the background of the restaurant’s eclectic rainforest décor. The experience is enhanced by dishes like Hamachi tiradito, lobster creole empanadas, and Puerto Rican braised short ribs. Grab a house mocktail such as Last Train to Bogota, basil and cucumber-infused drink spiked with lime and juniper berries and enjoy the show.
Hotel Cartagena, U Walk, An Nakheel, daily 6.30pm to 1.30am. Tel: 9200 33801. @hotelcartagenariyadh
3. Be tantalised by an Arabian Night-themed dinner
View this post on Instagram
DoubleTree by Hilton’s Arabian-themed night presents a lavish culinary exploration of the hearty Arabic cuisine. Enjoy your buffet spread with a taste of authentic cuisine and traditional recipes at the hotel’s Open restaurant.
Doubletree by Hilton, Al Muroj Business Gate, Northern Ring Road, Al Wadi Ar Riya, Riyadh 11552, Every Thursday, 7pm to 11pm. SAR199 per person. Tel: 011 528 5100. @doubletreebyhilton_riyadh
Friday February 4
4. Be part of the biggest fitness challenge
View this post on Instagram
SandClash, a two-day CrossFit Competition and Fitness Festival designed to challenge athletes, makes its long-await return to the Kingdom. Watch fitness enthusiasts of all ages and genders from all around the world competing to earn the title of the fittest. Even if you’re not participating, spectators are invited to watch the competition and enjoy the festive atmosphere, filled with contests, live entertainment, lifestyle activations and food trucks.
SFA SandClash 2022, The Arena (near Granada Shopping Centre), Imam Abdullah Bin Saud Bin Abdulaziz Road, Gharnatah, Riyadh 13241, Feb 4-5, 7am to 10pm. Buy your tickets here. @sandclash.ksa
5. Vegan brunch at Wabi Sabi
View this post on Instagram
Wabi Sabi is a name familiar to many. Dedicated to bringing you healthier but no less hearty brunch creations, their menu features a handful of gluten-free and nut-free items. Chocolate chip pancakes, barbecued jackfruit tacos and Japanese-inspired ramen grace the plant-based menu, so don’t visit in your skinny jeans. Oh, and be sure to head upstairs to check out the little shop that sells everything from patterned abayas to cool accessories and artwork.
Wabi Sabi, 8256 3851, King Muhammad V, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12223, daily 9.30am to 11.30pm. Tel: 011 239 9991. @wabisabiksa
Saturday February 5
6. Ride the world’s longest mobile roller coaster
Riyadh adrenaline junkies can now enjoy a thrilling new amusement ride at Riyadh Season’s Winter Wonderland. With a height of 52 metres and a speed of 110 kph, Sky Loop consists of a group of carts moving along a spiral track full of twists and turns through a sharp ascension and crazy overturns. It will be an incredibly fast and great ride, so we recommend riding on an empty stomach.
Winter Wonderland, Until March 31, 4pm onwards. SAR55 on weekdays and SAR110 on weekends. Book your tickets here. @riyadhseason
7. Indulge in a day of massage
For outstanding facilities and divine treatments, the Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya haven of Sokoun Spa is hard to beat. In addition to the hotel’s existing spa and fitness centre for males, the new luxury well-being sanctuary for women consists of premium wellness facilities to help women relax, rejuvenate and escape from the hectic city lifestyle. It’s got everything from a solid Swedish massage and lomi lomi massage (a healing massage derived from ancient Polynesians) to Moroccan and Rhassoul Hammam. They also offer salon services for a pampering session with the girlfriends.
Sokoun Spa and Fitness Centre, Hyatt Regency Riyadh Olaya, Olaya St, Riyadh 11433, Spa: daily 9am to 11pm, Gym: daily 6am to midnight. Tel: 011 288 1234. @hyattregencyriyadholaya
Images: Social