9 top things to do in Riyadh this week: March 31 to April 3
It’s the first week of April…
One of the best things about living in Riyadh is how happening the city is. Even during the last week of Ramadan, the city is bursting with activities for you to do. Here are the best things to do in Riyadh this week.
Sunday March 31
Check out Wadi AlReem Festival
There’s a brand-new festival in town. Check out acrobatic performances, international circus, free dancing, rap, talent drawing, and children’s shows.
Wadi AlReem, HP6M+J4 Al-Masani’, daily 4pm to 2am. Book your spot for SAR5 here
Get your nails done FAST
The salon offers everything from manicures and pedicures to lashes and massages, Mani-pedi options include classic, the Kynder signature, quick fix, and a shellac one. The add-ons include gels, BIAB gel overlays, acrylics, and nail art. It’s the very first drive-thru salon concept in Riyadh, so don’t forget to check out at least once. You can even get massages for your hands, feet, and neck.
Kynder, Abi Bakar Al Siddiq road, At Taawun, 8pm to 1.30am. @kynd.er
Monday April 1
Get a laser facial at Skin Laundry
Enter Skin Laundry, the go-to spot for laser treatments, which will open in Cenomi U Walk this weekend – an ideal drop-in before, during, or after work if you need a little glow. Tucked next to Zara Home, the opening marks Skin Laundry’s first clinic in Saudi Arabia. It offers a range of laser facial treatments and other aesthetic procedures, all personalised to cater to individual skincare needs. Each treatment is administered by skilled professionals trained to deliver exceptional results with unwavering safety and precision.
Skin Laundry, Cenomi U Walk, King Saud University, Riyadh 12373. Ramadan hours: 11am to 4pm & 9pm to 1am. For inquiries or appointments, please contact Skin Laundry at 055 597 3665 or via email at [email protected]
Last day to visit the JAX Market
The Ramadan Market at JAX District is open until Monday April 1, and forms part of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation’s “Layali Biennale” initiative. Set to welcome visitors after sunset, from 8.30pm to 2am, the nightly program will immerse them in a vibrant mix of cultural and culinary experiences.
Ramadan Market at JAX District, Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale, daily 8.30pm to 2am. Book your spot here.
Enjoy the last of the Diriyah Nights
Wander along the walkways illuminated by glittering lights and explore the enchanting site, which brings together the best of local and global contemporary art and design, exceptional food, live performances, poetry, and theatrical performances, weaving a rich tapestry of cultural festivities and theatrical marvels.
Diriyah Nights, Bujairi Park, daily 5.30pm to 4.30am. Book your SAR150 spot here.
Tuesday April 2
Tuck into good food at Saddle House
The popular Emirati-owned Saddle House is now open in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. If you’re looking for a new sleek spot for a coffee date with your pals, Saddle House is perfect for a wholesome coffee pick-me-up after a hearty iftar. Offering more than just artisan coffee, the menu is also quite the spread, featuring everything from smoothies and avocado egg toast to pasta and more.
Saddle House, 1364 Complex, Diplomatic Quarter, Al Safarat, Riyadh. Tel: 056 100 8550. @saddlehouse.sa
Look out for the floating market at Boulevard World
It’s lively and full of stalls selling food and fruits, and it’s colourful – exactly how people imagine a floating market in Thailand would look like (minus the boats), with the opportunity to capture the perfect photo. Some of the authentic Thai food you must try when at the floating market includes grilled seafood, Tom Yam fried rice, and mango sticky rice. The best part? Most of the vendors feature some of Dubai’s best Thai restaurants, so you won’t find them anywhere else in Riyadh.
Floating Market, Boulevard World, 5pm to 2am. Tickets are required to enter Boulevard World. @blvdworldsa
Wednesday April 3
Enjoy iftar at Gymkhana
Walk in through the all-glass doors, and you’ll be welcomed into a dimly lit space exuding calm vibes from every corner. The restaurant’s interiors are reminiscent of the old-time elite clubs in India where members of high society used to mingle.
Gymkhana Riyadh, Via Riyadh, daily 5pm to 2am. @viariyadh
Have suhoor at House of Grill
The famous House of Grill in Fairmont Riyadh will be the place for suhoor as dusk falls. A family-style set menu with traditional and international fare is available for SAR350 per person in an intimate setting where tradition meets contemporary. The food is expertly prepared to create a delightful pre-dawn meal in a tranquil and opulent atmosphere.
House of Grill, Business Gate, Qurtubah. @houseofgrillksa
It’s the last week of Ramadan Season 2024
As part of the Ramadan Festival activities, the Ramadan Season, taking place within the Al Masmak Palace Museum, celebrates the historical legacy and customs of the holy month of Ramadan. There are plenty of activities for the whole family, including an exhibition to help you understand the value and spirituality of Ramadan, an interactive experience showcasing the Holy Quran, and more. You’ll also get to enjoy popular regional cuisines, live cooking shows, taking part in crafts workshops, and shopping and purchasing handmade products. For a luxurious iftar and suhoor experience, book a spot at the Al Thuraya dining, which offers a diverse menu and dishes inspired by various local and international Ramadan cuisines.
Ramadan Season 2024, Ad Dirah, Al Safa Square, Riyadh 12651. Free entry but you need to book your tickets here. Other experiences within Ramadan Season may require a separate ticket. @ramadanseasonsa