10 things to look forward to in Saudi Arabia this April 2024
Happy April, everyone…
Come April, we’re looking forward to the extra-long Eid al-Fitr weekend to take a well-deserved break. It’s a good time to catch up with family and friends with some new activities happening. Whether it’s kid-friendly attractions or a unique staycay with your loved ones, it’s time to kick things up a notch with these ten things to do in Saudi Arabia in April 2024.
Until April 4: Enjoy Ramadan Nights at Hayy Jameel
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The inaugural Ramadan Nights at Hayy Jameel brings a diverse programme of workshops, film screenings, eateries and shopping opportunities celebrating the essence of community, culture and wellbeing. For culture lovers, explore Hayy Markets for a spot of retail therapy and support Jeddah creative entrepreneurs, showcasing artisanal crafts and products inspired by local tradition and heritage. There will also be an array of local food and beverages, children’s activities, film screenings, games, performances, sound healing, poetry and storytelling sessions.
Ramadan Nights, Until Apr 4, 11pm to 2am, Hayy Jameel, Jeddah. Free and open to the public, but registration may be required for some activities. @hayyjameel
April 8 to 11: Enjoy an extra-long weekend for Eid al-Fitr
Eid al-Fitr, also known as the Festival of Breaking Fast, is the celebration to mark the end of the month of Ramadan. Depending on the moon, Ramadan lasts 29 or 30 days and Eid al-Fitr 2024 is likely to fall on Wednesday April 10 (although the date will be confirmed later). However, the public holiday for Eid Al Fitr 2024 in Saudi Arabia has been confirmed by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development – and it’s set to be an extra-long weekend. Both the public and private sector will enjoy a four-day break from Monday April 8. The public holiday will conclude on Thursday April 11, but for most people who enjoy a Friday-Saturday weekend in the Kingdom, that will mean a full six days off. Stay tuned to What’s On Saudi Arabia for those confirmed Eid date and the best things to do over the long holiday.
April 10 to 20: Eyes to the skies at the return of AlUla Skies
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Hundreds of colourful balloons will fly high over the Unesco World Heritage Site of Hegra from April 10 to 27 as part of the AlUla Skies Festival. The beloved once-in-a-lifetime experience is one to book early. Alongside the balloons, there will be several events to celebrate the vast open space of the desert and night sky lit up by the milky way.
April 12 & 13: Explore Sensation Art Gallery in Jeddah
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Step into a world of luxury and art at Sensation Art Gallery, where every corner ignites creativity. The two-day event will be taking place at the gorgeous La Maison de Obhur private beach and will feature interactive exhibits, live art performances, and award-winning artists. You can also look forward to one-of-a-kind dining, cafes, mesmerising aerial arts, and captivating music shows, set against the backdrop of a luxurious beach setting.
Sensation Art Gallery, Apr 12 & 13, 8pm to 2.30am, La Maison de Obhur, 6730 Obhur 2787 Jeddah 23821. Get your tickets here. SAR229 for a one-day full access pass and SAR374 for a two-day full access pass. @sensationartgallery
April (TBC): The first exclusive Spa by L’Occitane opens in Riyadh
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Get ready to experience an unparalleled wellness escape with the new Spa L’Occitane at the Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel. Pamper yourself with products driven by nature that promise to bring a calming experience while working effectively on the mind and body. Whether you’re looking to unwind or relax and destress in the many facilities at Mansard Spa by L’Occitane, this will be the ideal getaway for anyone looking to rest and reset.
Mansard Spa by L’Occitane, Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel, Ar Rabi, Riyadh 11564. @mansardspabyloccitane
April 15: Experience a heartfelt evening of comedy with John Achkar
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For the uninitiated, John Achkar is a Lebanese stand-up comedian and entrepreneur who has garnered significant attention in both the UAE and Lebanon through his engaging content on TikTok and Instagram. On Monday April 15, Achkar is set to bring his witty talents to Dammam in “Shou Zakeh?!” Delve into the comedic nuances of his fresh relationship, travel escapades, and witty observations on the corporate realm. Expect to be taken on a rollercoaster tour of relatable laughter in an evening filled with a cheerful atmosphere. Achkar will also be performing in Riyadh on April 16 at Anghami Lab and in Jeddah on April 20 at Lineup.
John Achkar Presents Shou Zakeh?!, Apr 15, 7.30pm & 9.30pm, Cawalees, Dammam 34241. The ticket starts from SAR175 and can be purchased here. The show is in Arabic.
April 18: The start of international flight to The Red Sea
Dreaming of a gorgeous getaway? flydubai’s newest flight route launches on Thursday April 18, and it’ll take you straight to one of Saudi Arabia’s most stunning new destinations, where dreamy desert resorts and sensational island escapes await. It marks the first direct international connection to The Red Sea destination. flydubai will operate twice weekly between Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Red Sea International Airport (RSI) on Thursdays and Sundays.
April 24 to 27: The thrilling camel racing sport returns to AlUla
The camel racing season is galloping back stronger than ever this year, with the iconic AlUla Camel Cup returning to the ancient oasis for a second edition from Wednesday April 24 to Saturday April 27. The four-day event will be live from AlUla’s Mughayra Heritage Sports Village and promises an exhilarating fusion of sport, culture, and entertainment alongside ‘Year of the Camel’ celebrations.
AlUla Camel Cup, Apr 24 to 27, Mughayra Heritage Sports Village. @experiencealula
From April 25: Catch Saudi Arabia’s first-ever Arabic Grand Opera
It’s the first grand opera to be produced by Saudi Arabia and the world’s largest grand opera to be sung in Arabic. Featuring locally trained talents and international performers, Zarqa Al Yamama – based on an ancient tale from pre-Islamic Arabia – tells the story of a legendary blue-eyed woman, born of the Geddes tribe and blessed with the gift of foresight. If you love opera, don’t miss this.
Zarqa Al Yamama, April 25 to May 4, King Fahad Cultural Centre, Riyadh. The price for the tickets starts from SAR100 and can be purchased here.
Throughout April: Check-in to Terhaab cottages in Abha
If you’ve always wanted to experience the beauty of the Asir region, the cosy Terhaab cottage is the perfect base for you to explore. The cute hideaway, located high up on a hill, looks over the whole city of Abha. Terhaab offer a range of recreational activities or you can choose to sit by a fire and enjoy the wonderful weather. Each cottage can accommodate four people comfortably.
Terhaab, Abha Doret Elmansak, SAR794 per night. Check-in time is at 3pm and check-out is at noon. Book your experience here.
Images: Supplied / Instagram