9 incredible things to do in Riyadh this week: June 11 to June 14
Fight the Sunday blues…
It’s the beginning of a new week, and while Sundays usually bring by a case of the Sunday blues, we’re here to help you break out of them. From new seasonal menus to cool events, here are all the incredible things to do in Riyadh this week.
Sunday June 11
Check out Saudi International Handicrafts Week
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Riyadh is hosting the first-ever Saudi International Handicrafts Week and you need to check it out. Showcasing some of the most gorgeous handicrafts of the country including pottery, wood carving and knitting, the event is happening at Riyadh Front. And did we mention it’s free?
Saudi International Handicrafts Week, Riyadh Front, daily 4pm to 11pm. @heritage_moc.
Dig into II Baretto’s new menu
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Summer’s officially here, and to celebrate II Baretto is launching a brand-new seasonal menu. The new pasta dishes include the Sicilian classic casarecce al pesto (homemade casarecce with basil pesto potatoes and French beans) ravioli di dentice fave e pomodori (red snapper ravioli with broad beans and tomato relish). You can also savour mains like filetto di dentice con pure di lenticchie, funghi, noccola e cavolo croccante (pan-fried red snapper with red lentil puree, mushroom, hazelnut and crispy kale).
II Baretto’s new menu, KAFD 5.08 KAFD, 2822 – 6591, 12.30pm to 11.30pm. @ilbarettosa
Monday June 12
Attend the Scripts and Calligraphy exhibition
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If you’re after a cool new exhibition to check out in Riyadh this week, you can explore the aesthetics of Arabic calligraphy by checking out a collection of historical, classical and contemporary artworks put on by the Ministry Of Culture.
Scripts and Calligraphy exhibition, Irqah Hospital, daily 11am to 11pm. @mocsaudi
Catch a glimpse of the first-ever Riyadh Air flight
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Riyadh Air’s first flight which is Saudi Arabia’s brand-new national carrier, is taking off next week on Monday June 12 and we cannot believe that it’s happening so fast. Keep your eyes on the skies, the route will be from King Abdullah Financial District to Kingdom Tower and then finally to Al Faisaliah.
Check out the new Roomours store
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Roomours is one of the most fun furniture stores you might step into, with graffiti-covered walls, a retro arcade machine, and designs throughout the space. This is likely where you’ll find that one missing piece of your dream house. And the brand just opened a new branch on Tahlia Street too.
Roomours, 269, Al Olaya, Sat to Thu 9.30am to 11pm, Fri 4pm to 11pm. @roomours.home
Tuesday June 13
Witness the stunning Manganiyar performances
The traditional Indian folk group is headed to Saudi Arabia next week for five days full of music, culture, and endless breathtaking performances. The event will involve a jaw-dropping 40 singers and instrumentalists within a magnificent 36-windowed structure with curtains opening to reveal each of the talented performers. From the outside looking in, the structure resembles a gorgeous jewellery box complete with slow-blinking light bulbs and an all-red aesthetic.
Manganiyar performances in Riyadh, Cultural Palace, Diplomatic Quarter, from Jun 13 to Jun 17, daily 7.30pm to 9.30pm. Book your tickets here.
Enjoy live music by Rebbi at Bagatelle
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Bagatelle Riyadh recently opened its doors, and it’s already a spot to beat. Gorgeous royal blue doors, amazing posters and blue accents throughout the space welcome you in, and the delicious food makes you stay. And now the stunning space will also be welcoming live music every Tuesday by the amazing London-born singer Rebbi.
Live music at Bagatelle, MJRM+P2R, Wadi Al Amariyah, Umm Al Hamam Al Gharbi, daily 1pm to 1am. @bagatelleriyadh
Wednesday June 14
Ladies Night at The Esplanade
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Grab your gal pals and head down to The Esplanade. Every Wednesday, the complex will be hosting Wednesdays “en Rose” where women can enjoy free valet parking, henna artists, and a ton of roses will be given away too.
Wednesdays en Rose at The Esplanade, PJGV+9C6, Prince Turki Bin Abdulaziz Al Awal Rd, King Saud University, 9pm. @esplanade_ruh
Hang out at Elemental
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If you’re after a spot to chill out with friends? It doesn’t get much better than Elemental. Dig into the delicious menu, we recommend the crispy calamari, the burrata, and the black truffle linguine too. Soak in the amazing vibes and catch up. Order any of the mocktails off the drink menu, they are all made to perfection.
Elemental Lounge and Restaurant, PM2R+JJX, Al Olaya, 1pm to 12am. @elemental.ksa
Images: Social/Getty