10 fun things to do in Riyadh this weekend: March 28 to 30
Enjoy the last weekend of March…
Get ready to strap in for another busy weekend with plenty of unmissable events and experiences around the capital. Here is our shortlist of ten fun things to do in Riyadh this weekend.
Thursday March 28
Post-iftar coffee date 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
Sign up for a culinary experience
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Ready to roll up your sleeves? Learn how to cook Kabsa, the traditional Saudi dish, and immerse yourself in a cultural exchange with Saudi Chef Um Abdulrahman and learn some helpful tips and tricks.
Ramadan Night: Cook Your Suhoor, Mar 28, 9pm to 11pm, Bonjour Saudi Rooftop, Ad Dawh Al Kabir, Samhan, Diriyah 13712. SAR250 per person. @bonjoursaudi
Gather at The Farm with your crew
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Kan Ya Ma Kan offers one of the best glamping experiences set in the beautiful Riyadh desert, complete with fully equipped tents with a host of amenities. This weekend, they’re hosting a suhoor gathering trip on Thursday March 28 from 9pm to 2am at The Farm. Experience the peaceful atmosphere of The Farm as you bond with your loved ones or meet with like-minded individuals and enjoy activities such as painting and playing games over a delicious meal. Stay updated on more of its upcoming events via its Instagram page.
Kan Ya Ma Kan Suhoor Trip, Mar 28, 9pm to 2am. Book your spot here. @kymk.sa
Friday March 29
Learn about the holy month of Ramadan
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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
Beat the bars at Prison Island
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It’s the weekend and what better way to spend your free time in cells filled with challenges? That’s fun at Prison Island, where you and your mates must work together to complete obstacles and tasks in order to break free. There are 35 cells to complete, each testing your physical or mental mettle. Prices start from SAR99 for juveniles and SAR149 for inmates. Activewear and trainers are required, and changing room facilities are available on-site.
Prison Island, First Floor, Park Avenue Mall, 7042 Said Ibn Zayd Rd, Qurtubah, Riyadh 13247. Tel: 055 028 7066. @prisonisland.ksa
Last chance to check out JAX District Ramadan Market
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This is your last weekend to check out the Ramadan Market at JAX District. The market will have hot and cold stations offering traditional cuisines, including tapas-style dishes such as batates, luqaimat, smoothies, and a diverse honey and cheese selection for guests to enjoy immediately or take home. The market also includes fun henna pop-ups and live oud music.
Ramadan Market, until Apr 1, 8.30pm to 2am, JAX District, Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale. Book your spot here.
Saturday March 30
Spend Ramadan nights at Boulevard World
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Stroll around the different country pavilions and admire the details and decorations that showcase the diversity and beauty of the world. Boulevard World is decked out in crescents and stars decor, and it will be serving up dates, Saudi coffee, and more throughout the month. Family-friendly activities will also be available so you and the kids can completely enjoy the Ramadan spirit.
Boulevard World, Hittin, 5pm to 2am. Book your spot here. @blvdworldsa
Look out for the floating market at Boulevard World
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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
Shop at the Amara Market
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Hilton Riyadh Hotel and Residences is hosting an Amara Market where you can head for iftar or suhoor. Check out the best of local crafts like bags, laptop sleeves, and more. Don’t miss the street food carts serving everything from Mexican and Indian food.
Amara Market, Hilton Riyadh Hotel and Residences. @hiltonriyadh
Wander through the light-filled Bujairi Terrace
Traditional Ramadan activities include inscribing your name on a branded book by a calligrapher, getting a traditional henna pattern, and expressing your feelings, reflections, and gratitude by etching into the Appreciation Tree. Our favourite is the wandering Fanoos, consisting of ten ladies adorned in beautiful thematic abayas carrying large lanterns throughout Bujairi Terrace.
Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah, 7295 King Faisal Rd, Riyadh 13711. Ramadan hours: Daily 5pm to 4am. Bookings can be made here. @bujairiterrace