10 things to look forward to in Saudi Arabia this March
Concerts, sporting events, stand-up comedy and more…
There is so much waiting to be explored this March, so here’s our compiled list of all the fun things happening in Saudi Arabia.
March 2 to 6: Learn more about Saudi truffles at the Desert Truffle Festival
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The second AlFaqaa Festival, also known as the Desert Truffle Festival, is headed to Riyadh this weekend. The festival focuses on bringing back the historical value of truffles in Saudi cuisine and aims to create platforms for local chefs to develop their skills. Check out the various zones and activities, participate in interactive workshops, and enjoy live music shows while you’re there.
Desert Truffle Festival, Mar 2 to 6, 5pm to midnight, Irqah Hospital, Riyadh. Free entry, but you need to book your visit here. @mocculinary
Throughout March: An exploration of Islamic arts
Millions of Muslim pilgrims will be familiar with the Hajj Terminal, but it’s now being transformed into an artistic hub, thanks to the Islamic Arts Biennale. So, if you’ve been curious about Islam or want to brush up on your knowledge, this should be on your cultural radar. The inaugural exhibition aims to celebrate and enrich the cultural and artistic exchange between Saudi Arabia, the birthplace of Islam, and communities around the world. The themes during the biennale will range from sacred direction (qiblah) to migration (hijrah), and it will explore how Muslims view the Kaaba as their spiritual home.
Islamic Arts Biennale, until April 23, 2023, Hajj Terminal, Jeddah. Free entry, but online registration is required.
March 4: The ultimate test of man and horse
Returning for its fourth edition on Saturday March 4, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup will welcome over 200 riders to navigate 120 kilometres of AlUla’s unique and rugged desert terrain with the finest horses from around the world. Equestrian enthusiasts and interested spectators will have an opportunity to experience an exciting day out, with entertainment and food and beverage on offer while connecting AlUla’s ancient Arabian horse heritage culture.
The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Endurance Cup 2023, Mar 4, 6am to 7pm, AlUla. @experiencealula
March 7 to 17: Experience the remarkable story of Umm Kulthum as it comes to life on the Ithra stage
This musical play and tribute tell the story of a woman who has made it on her own in a man’s world, constantly rising against the tides, transforming her music, image and style to become a legend: Umm Kulthum, star of the Orient. Born into relative poverty, her father recognises her musical ability at a young age and disguises her as a young boy so she can use her talent to feed the family. Her talent is so great that all convention is broken, and Umm Kulthum is mentored by the best composers and writers of the era to become a legend. Unfortunately, jealousy leads to a libellous scandal that nearly derails all her hopes and dreams…
Umm Kulthum & The Golden Era – A Musical Tribute, Mar 7 to 17, 8pm, Ithra. The ticket price starts from SAR150. Book your tickets here.
March 10: A big music gig is coming alive in KAEC
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Head on over to King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), about an hour’s drive from Jeddah, to get lost in live music courtesy of a stellar line-up of local DJs. You’ll find yourself immersed within the lush green surroundings of Juman Park with banging tunes in the background. Since music is the soul of the event, expect acts from DJs Dasha Mell, Panda, BKR, IGX, and Soul amongst the highlights.
Night Dreams in Jeddah, Mar 10, 8pm to 2am, Juman Park, King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC). Book your tickets here. SAR400 for general admission & SAR650 for VIP tickets. @nightdreams_sa
March 14 to 17: Saddle up for the first-ever AlUla Camel Cup
Experience four days of exhilarating camel races and get a taste of one of the region’s oldest sports at the AlUla Camel Cup – held in AlUla for the very first time. Cheer on these magnificent creatures as they compete for the highest prize per round in camel racing history. A purpose-built Heritage Village will also provide visitors with entertainment, restaurants and food stalls, a qafila-style retail experience and close-to-the-action grandstand seating.
AlUla Camel Cup, Mar 14 to 17, 2pm to 10pm. Book your tickets here. Ticket prices start from SAR50. @experiencealula
March 17: Travis Scott’s solo concert in Riyadh
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Eight-time Grammy-nominated rapper Travis Scott is confirmed to headline his first individual ticketed concert in the capital on Friday March 17 at BanBan Festival Site. Fans will be treated to some of his world-famous hits from his third album, “Astroworld” – a hip-hop and psychedelic rap album incorporating elements of trap and psychedelic music.
Travis Scott in Riyadh, Mar 17, BanBan Festival Site. The ticket price starts from SAR395. Book your tickets here.
March 17 to 19: Rev your engines for the F1
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One of the biggest sporting events of the year, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix marks the second race in the F1 Calendar. As always, it will take place in Jeddah, home of the world’s fastest street circuit. Expect a full three-day programme both on and off track that will appeal to sport and entertainment seekers alike. Think pop-up restaurants and epic concerts with headliners, including AfroJack, Travis Scott, and Calvin Harris.
Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2023, Mar 17 to 19, 2023, Jeddah Corniche Circuit. The ticket price starts from SAR100. Saudiarabiangp.com
March 18: Laugh out loud at this comedy night
They say laughter is the best medicine, and we’ve got just the prescription for you right here: A Night of Comedy with Kenny Sebastian in Jeddah. You’ll be guaranteed gut-tickling giggles from the Bangalore-bred and Mumbai-based stand-up comedian, writer, showrunner, musician and improviser. His comedy prowess is seen in his Amazon Prime Video special, “Don’t be That Guy”, along with the sci-fi comedy web series “Starboyz” on YouTube and Comedy Central’s “The Living Room”. After having performed six stand-up specials, Kenny’s latest special, “The Most Interesting Person in the Room”, is available on Netflix.
A Night of Comedy with Kenny Sebastian, Mar 18, 8pm, The Club, Alshallal, Jeddah. The price starts from SAR150. Book your tickets here.
Until March 20: The most entertaining water activities all in one spot
Jeddah Waves offers the most thrilling water activities for an adrenaline-packed day, including jet skiing, speed boats, kayaking, flyboarding, Seabob scooters, schiller water bikes, and banana boats. There are also beachside food trucks, VIP cabanas, live music, and volleyball courts.
Jeddah Waves, daily, 10am to 6pm, 8912 Prince Abdullah AlFaisal St, Al Lulu, 2740, Jeddah 23821. The ticket price starts from SAR55. Book your tickets here. @jeddahwave