12 things to look forward to in Saudi Arabia this August
A race in AlUla, a magic show in Dhahran, a folklore festival in Jeddah, and major concerts in Riyadh…
Before we know it, August is here, and we’re determined to ensure you spend every moment well. If you’re thinking of filling your time with memorable programmes, we’ve got you covered.
Here are 12 things to look forward to in Saudi Arabia this August.
August 3 & 4: An underground gig in Riyadh
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Practice your best dance moves and head down to Alammariah Hills for a wonderful weekend out on the town. Happening on Thursday August 3 and Friday August 4, immerse yourself in the world of electronic music with YellowPlus. The rave fest will be headlined by Øostil, a Mexico-based musical artist known for his melodic techno-inspired music, and 8Kays, who’s already made waves with releases on renowned labels like Blaufield Music. They’ll be hitting the stage alongside local artists like Dish Dash, JEME, Melon, RDJ, Virgo, Darkodelix, and Narkbeat.
YellowPlus, Aug 3 & 4, 8pm to 3.30am, Alammariah Hills, Riyadh 13725. Book your tickets here. The ticket price starts from SAR350. @yellowplus_sa
August 3 to 10: Experience art in the heart of Madinah
Al Madinah International Art Symposium – Madan is a brand new culturally-rich, immersive, multi-dimensional art experience right in the heart of Madinah. The first iteration of the symposium is called ‘Madan’, which is an Arabic word that means ‘citify’, to acknowledge the significance of urbanisation and civilisation in the history of humanity, as well as the influence of cities on our contemporary cultures and societies. It also emphasises the notion that culture, such as in cities, is a dynamic process that is constantly changing and evolving rather than a static entity. The symposium’s schedule will feature workshops, talks, panel discussions, tours, cultural activities, and an art exhibition. An exhibition of the works produced concludes it. The activities continue throughout the public portion of the symposium.
Madan, Madina Art Centre, Al-Madina Al Munawarah. Madan-art.com
Throughout August: Take in the immense programmes at Gamers8
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Gear up for weeks of thrilling events, tournaments, and next-level experiences at Gamers8: The Land of Heroes. Watch the world’s elite esports champions and gamers battle it out for $45 million in prizes. Running alongside all esports tournaments will be a wide selection of activities for attendees to enjoy when not watching the competition, from the popular Aramco racing simulator to life-sized Pac-Man where you can hunt down some ghosts. There’s also fan-favourite Japamura zone, where you can participate in various immersive workshops or step into the Dojo and learn the basics of Samurai etiquette and sword fighting. Plus, there will be an exclusive immersive experience Peaky Blinders: The Rise! that will start from August 4. Whether you’re Team Poly, Team Arthur, or Team Mick, choose your storyline for an incredible Peaky Blinders experience.
Gamers8, Boulevard Riyadh City, Riyadh. An all-access pass starts from SAR114. Gamers8.gg
August 4: Get ready to slither and sway with DJ Snake
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French music producer and DJ Snake is a crowd favourite in Riyadh and is headed back to the capital, as part of the Gamers8 concerts, so get ready to bust a move. He will be joining Saudi DJ Omar Basaad, Cheb Khaled, an Algerian raï singer, musician and songwriter, and Egyptian singer Ahmed Saad on the weekend’s music line-up, taking place at Mohammed Abdo Arena in the Boulevard Riyadh City.
Gamers8 Concerts, 6pm onwards, Mohammed Abdo Arena, Boulevard Riyadh City, Riyadh. The price starts from SAR199. Book your tickets here.
August 9 to 19: A riveting evening of mind-blowing magic
The Illusionists – Direct From Broadway head to the Eastern Province with seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth and a show that will have you falling under their spell. Performing at Ithra Theatre for the first time, the show opens on Wednesday August 9 for only 11 performances until Saturday August 19. Expect large-scale stunts, levitation, mindreading, and all kinds of illusions.
The Illusionists – Direct from Broadway, Aug 9 to 19, 4pm to 5.50pm (only on Sat) & 8pm to 9.50pm, Ithra Theatre. Suitable for ages ten and above. The price starts from SAR112. Closed on Sunday August 13. Get your tickets here. @ithra
August 11: Dance the night away with Ava Max and Steve Angello
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Week 6 of Gamers8 concert in Riyadh will feature two international headliners: Greek-Swedish DJ Steve Angello and American pop diva Ava Max. Fans of the electronic music scene will know that Angello is best known for his work with Swedish House Mafia. Meanwhile, if you’ve ever caught yourself bopping along to songs like “Sweet but Pyscho”, “Not Your Barbie Girl”, and “Salt”, you’ll be pleased to catch the unique new talent Ava, with her fierce and powerful vocals, live on the Mohammed Abdo Arena stage.
Gamers8 Concerts, 6pm onwards, Mohammed Abdo Arena, Boulevard Riyadh City, Riyadh. The price starts from SAR199. Book your tickets here.
August 17 & 18: Celebrate all things Indonesia
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If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Indonesian culture, you can witness first-hand the archipelago’s cultural diversity at the upcoming “Indonesia Unlimited: Folklore Festival”. The two-day celebration will be held at Casa Diora Hotel in Jeddah on Thursday August 17 and Friday August 18. The festival will feature a variety of traditional Indonesian performances, including dance and music, and fun games and activities. There will also be a marketplace with vendors selling authentic Indonesian food and souvenirs, as well as a showcase of traditional clothing and crafts from various regions.
Indonesia Unlimited: Folklore Festival, Aug 17 & 18, 5pm to midnight, Casa Diora Hotel, King Abdallah Road, An Naseem, Jeddah 23233. SAR45 per adult & SAR22.50 for children ages six to 12. Book your tickets here.
August 18: Catch Steve Aoki and Tyga live at Gamers8 concert
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From hip-hop to EDM, and everything in between, the diverse week 7 of Gamers8 concert in Riyadh will feature performances by DJ Steve Aoki, rapper Tyga, as well as Saudi DJ Cosmicat and Lebanese singer Myriam Fares. So, get ready to be transported to a whole new dimension of music.
Gamers8 Concerts, 6pm onwards, Mohammed Abdo Arena, Boulevard Riyadh City, Riyadh. The price starts from SAR199. Book your tickets here.
Every weekend throughout August: A stand-up comedy extravaganza in Riyadh
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Tickle your funny bone with Riyadh Laughs, a weekly (happening every Thursday, Friday and Saturday) live comedy series organised by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City. So, head over to Muvi Cinema in Boulevard Riyadh City for fun times. The stand-up comedian line-up features a diverse selection of local, international, and regional talents. Oh, and if you’re perfectly capable of laughing at yourself, take a seat at the front – you’ll likely find yourself the target of some good-natured ribbing.
Riyadh Laughs, Muvi Cinemas, Boulevard Riyadh City, 8.15pm. The price starts from SAR175 per person. @riyadhlaughs
August 25: An all-female line-up concludes the Gamers8 concerts
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The best way to wrap up the last week of Gamers8 concerts in Riyadh? An all-female bill – from Australian rap goddess Iggy Azalea and South Korean DJ Soda with her rocking beats to the soulful voices of Egyptian singer Sherine and Zeina.
Gamers8 Concerts, 6pm onwards, Mohammed Abdo Arena, Boulevard Riyadh City, Riyadh. The price starts from SAR169. Book your tickets here.
Throughout August: Check out the family-friendly events at Aseer Season
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Plan a road trip or hop on a short flight to the picturesque province of Aseer, with its cooler temperatures, and immerse yourself in the magic of Aseer Season 2023. Activities on offer include mountain biking, kayaking, karting, and hiking. From thrilling rides to tasty restaurants, there’s plenty for the whole family to discover. Whatever activity you choose, you can be rest assured that you will enjoy a stunning view of Aseer on your way down.
Aseer Season, until Sept 1. The ticket price starts from SAR35. Book your tickets here. @aseer.seasons
August 26: Take part in AlUla’s extreme summer run
The first of its kind in Saudi Arabia, AlUla Desert Blaze will test the endurance of the very toughest of runners. Taking place in the hottest month of the year, the road race features distances of 5km, 10km, a half marathon (21km) and an epic full marathon (42km). Top-notch international athletes will be invited to participate in the more challenging routes, while non-pros are encouraged to run the shorter courses. Even with AlUla’s relatively temperate summer temperatures, this sweltering running challenge is sure to be the hottest race in the Kingdom.
AlUla Desert Blaze, Aug 26, 9.55am to 6pm, Hegra South Gate. Pre-registration is required and can be made here. The price starts from SAR50. @alulamoments
Images: Social