10 amazing things to do in Riyadh this week: May 19 to May 22
Here’s to a new week…
There’s definitely no lack of things to do in Riyadh. This vibrant capital is often buzzy with pop-up events and exhibitions that engage locals and tourists alike. From dining at popular cafes and restaurants to networking events, you’ll definitely find activities to do for the week.
Here are ten amazing things to do in Riyadh this week.
Sunday May 19
Give breakfast at NUE by Nomad a little bit of love
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If you’ve not yet made your way to NUE by Nomad, this is your sign to do so. While you’ve likely seen its sumptuous restaurant interiors all over Instagram, it’s a particularly lovely spot for breakfast, when the morning light streams in. The food is just as delightful. Come hungry – you’ll want to order the works, from just-out-the-oven pastries to fluffy French toast slathered with syrup and berries. Or perhaps you fancy breakfasting like a king with the classic avocado toast with poached eggs and a side of truffle hash browns? Whatever your tastes, this buzzy spot will have you coming back time and time again.
NUE by Nomad, 3074 Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12213, daily 8am to 1.30am. @nomadeatery.sa
A co-working space to replace the home office
If you’re looking for sleek office spaces for maximum conduciveness, book a spot at any of the hot desks at The Space. This design-distinctive workspace invites members to relish in the spacious lounges and event spaces. It also seems like the kind of location you’d want to bring a client in while closing on a juicy deal to revamp an entire web app.
The Space, Alia Plaza, Abu Bakr Al Siddik Street, Ar Rabi, Sun to Thurs 9am to 5pm. @thespaceksa
Monday May 20
Stop and eat the roses?
Yes, you can – with Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh’s Taif Rose promotion. If you’re looking for a menu with a level of flair like no other, make a trip to Obaya Lounge for an exploration of floral flavours. Think warm goat cheese and Taif rose salad, and the tantalising Taif rose-infused beetroot velouté to start. For main courses, the enticing selection includes pan-fried tiger prawn and the Taif Rose and pistachio-crusted lamb loin, each infused with the delicate fragrance of Taif roses.
Taif Rose Promotion, until May 31, Obaya Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh. Tel: 011 211 5500. @fsriyadh
Sculpt, strengthen and sweat it out
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One of Riyadh’s coolest fitness spots is Formé Wellness, a private and semi-private studio specialised in reformer pilates and wellness. The Sculpt class is a must-try for reformer enthusiasts. It brings the best of pilates and fitness to create a flow of reformers, weights, and occasionally jump board to create the ultimate workout in this 50-minute class. Not one for beginners, this is a challenging class – though adjustments are offered if you’re more new to Pilates – with top instructors there to motivate and guide you.
Formé Wellness, Ar Rabi, Riyadh 13316, Sun & Tues 9am to 10pm, Mon & Wed 8am to 9pm, Thurs 8am to 8pm, Fri noon to 3pm & Sat 11am to 6pm. @formewellness.sa
Tuesday May 21
Looking for an adorable activity to take your baby to?
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When you’ve exhausted the favourite baby books and maxed out the coffee fix at your mums’ group, but you’re still keen to get out and about, Ditsy Dots are perfect for parents (helpers are welcome, too) to bond with their babies while exposing them to music and movement. This 40-minute accompanied playgroup is a super-fun creative outlet for little ones, with everything from singing and dancing to story time and lots of sensory activities, which are great for exploratory learning with bubbles, songs, and music. We love that the session is reasonably priced at SAR65 per class (with no long-term commitment; just pay as you go).
Ditsy Dots (from four months to beginner walkers), Tues May 21, 11am, Ranco Village Compound. SAR65 per parent and baby. @diddy_dotsksa
Gear up for an aromatic journey at the Saudi Food Show
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The Saudi Food Show brings together an unmatched global line-up of international exhibitors, thought leaders, F&B communities, strategic partners, never-seen-before brands, and top regional and international chefs on one ground-breaking stage. Devout foodies can also look forward to exclusive masterclasses and live demos, savouring traditional flavours reinvented, and witnessing the art of cooking live.
Saudi Food Show, May 21 to 23, noon to 8pm, Riyadh Front Exhibition & Convention Centre. SAR150 per person and you can register here. @thesaudifoodshow
It’s the last week to check out Diriyah Biennale 2024
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Now in its second edition, the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale has become a distinctive event in the region’s art calendar. The 2024 edition titled ‘After Rain’ opens up a moment of revitalisation and renewal. Visiting the Diriyah Biennale 2024 will take audiences across six airy exhibition halls in the JAX District. This year, the 177 works on show by artists from all over the world address pressing topics, such as water shortage, arid landscapes, and climate migration. In addition, there are many learning sessions and activations, including kids’ workshops and the much-loved Cinema Nights, taking place during the Diriyah Biennale 2024. Here are some highlights from our visit.
Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2024, until May 24, JAX District, Diriyah, Riyadh, Sat to Thurs 11am to 11pm & Fri 3pm to midnight. Free entry but you need to book your ticket here. @biennale_sa
A heartfelt tribute to the legendary Paco de Lucía
In celebration of Europe Month, the Embassy of Spain in Riyadh, Saudi Music Hub, and the Music Commission have organised a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Paco de Lucía, an enduring icon of flamenco music whose influence spans generations. From soul-stirring melodies to rhythmic flamenco rhythms, experience the magic of Paco de Lucía’s legacy firsthand, showcased by the exceptional talents of José María Bandera, nephew of Paco de Lucía, and the renowned musician Diego Amador.
Echoes of Flamenco: A Tribute to Paco de Lucía, May 21, 8pm to 9.30pm, Saudi Music Hub Riyadh, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12331. For those interested to attend, kindly send photo ID to [email protected]
Wednesday May 22
Feel the rhythm and soul with live music at Urth Caffe
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Dive into the rhythm and let the waves of music carry you away at Urth Caffe at KAFD. From 8pm to midnight on Wednesday May 22, diners can indulge in an evening filled with delectable food, refreshing drinks, and soulful tunes.
Live Music at Urth Caffe, May 22, 8pm to midnight, Urth Caffe at KAFD. @urthcaffesaudi
Bring the salon to your living room
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Fancy setting up a spa in the comfort of your own living room? If you’d rather ditch the day spa in favour of your humble abode, a tap of your iPhone will bring one of Reva Luxury Home Spa’s therapists to your home – and they’ll bring the table. The signature Reva Detox uses techniques to alleviate tension and pummel away toxins in the muscles.
Reva Luxury Home Spa, Tel: 050 630 1100. @reva.ksa