15 splendid things to do in Riyadh this weekend: May 23 to May 25
Cheers to the weekend…
Can’t decide what to do with your days off? While it’s never a bad idea to secure a booking at one of the best restaurants in the capital, raving it out all night, or even exploring an immersive exhibition, we’re always on the lookout for new, exciting pop-ups, openings and events.
Here are 15 splendid things to do in Riyadh this weekend.
Thursday May 23
It’s the last day of 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
Enjoy business lunch at Mr Chow
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Who does not enjoy nourishing Beijing-inspired cuisine in a cosy and homestyle setting that will make you feel at ease? Mr Chow provides exactly such an ideal combination. Expect lobster shumai, chicken satay, the gambler’s duck and lamb with spring onion, from the two-course lunch menu, which is priced at SAR159 per person. Soft drinks and cocktails of the day are included, too.
Mr Chow, KAFD, Al Aqiq, Riyadh 13519, daily noon to 11.30pm. Tel: 9200 12658. @mrchowriyadh
Check out the WWE Experience at BLVD City
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Missing out on the WWE SmackDown and WWE King and Queen of the Ring taking place in Jeddah this weekend? Wrestling fans can check out the WWE Experience, where you’ll find yourself immersed in a variety of themed rooms, each telling a unique story through historical photos, and a life-sized wrestling ring. There will also be a dedicated area paying homage to The Undertaker. Stepping into this section feels like entering a graveyard-themed sanctuary dedicated to the iconic wrestler.
WWE Experience, BLVD City, 5pm to midnight. The ticket starts from SAR75 and can be purchased here. @riyadhseason
Crank up the volume and dance along at the Melotech Party
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Get ready for a new experience in Riyadh with this innovative concept, ‘Melotech Presents: XTENDED Series’ – where music knows no bounds. NarkBeat will headline the show with an exclusive extended three-hour set, alongside Talal Jk and Dani Bogari. Look forward to an exceptional fusion of music and ambience and an electrifying atmosphere.
Melotech Presents Narkbeat, May 23, 8pm onwards, The Warehouse, JAX District. Tickets start from SAR300 and can be purchased here. @twh_ksa
Party it up at Beast House
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The countdown to the weekend has officially begun with a Fantôme de Nuit Records (Beirut based record label, artist collective and party makers) showcase and label boss Nesta, bringing his third feature of 2024 to Beast House on Thursday May 23, alongside local house heroes Baloo and Vinyl Mode. Trust us when we say the vibe, atmosphere, and talent here make this one of the hottest gig venues in the city.
Beast House, May 23, 9pm to 3.30am, Beast House, J12, JAX District, Riyadh 13732. The price starts from SAR250 per person. Book your tickets here. @_beasthouse
Friday May 24
Enjoy pancakes at A.O.K Kitchen
A cult favourite among brunchers, the buzziness at A.O.K Kitchen on weekends is a testament to how good the food is here. It is a quintessential brunch spot with classic avo-on-toast and egg brekkies on the menu. But the pancakes served with organic maple syrup, coconut Chantilly and fresh berries are the way to go when you’re here. Moreish, light and fluffy, these towering treats made of gluten-free flour are house favourites for many reasons. Plus, they’re available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A.O.K Kitchen, KAFD Wadi, Al Aqiq, Riyadh 13519, daily 7am to 11pm. @aokkitchensaudi
Take a journey through Saudi with Friday Brunch at La Brasserie
If you haven’t heard, there’s a brand-new Friday Brunch at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh’s La Brasserie, encompassing Saudi Arabia’s rich and vast culinary heritage. Showcasing authentic dishes from all 13 provinces, amid an array of traditional artworks and live Arabic entertainment, this culinary first in Riyadh promises to transport guests across every corner of the Kingdom. Diners can look forward to a menu that reflects each dish’s cultural and historical significance. This includes Margoog from Riyadh, Hasawi Rice from Eastern, and Samak Mkashan from Jazan. Guests will receive a welcoming drink of Zamzam Water with Taif Rose from Mecca, before indulging in a selection of sweet treats such as Ajwa Date Cake and Kleeja. The brunch also features interactive stations, international selections and a special kids menu.
13 Regions Brunch, every Fri 1pm to 5pm, La Brasserie, Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh. SAR397 for adults & SAR198 for children aged seven to 12. Tel: 011 273 2005. @mo_alfaisaliah
Celebrate the beauty of horses
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Witness the Majesty of Purebred Arabian Horses at the Kingdom International Championship – Manifa held at The Arena Riyadh. Purebred Arabian horses will participate to showcase their elegance and luxury as horse breeders and owners compete for the championship title and global recognition. Saudi and Gulf horses will also participate, making it an exceptional occasion that reflects the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s heritage and legacy in horse breeding. The championship is an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the beauty and grace of Arabian horses and showcase their talents in the fields of beauty and performance.
Kingdom International Championship for the Beauty of Purebred Arabian Horses - Manifa, May 23 to May 26, 3pm to midnight, The Arena Riyadh. Tickets are priced at SAR199 and can be purchased here.
Here’s your last chance to visit Diriyah Biennale 2024
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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
Continue to dance the night away at Beast House
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Can’t get enough of Beast House? Dance to the beats of Dam Swindle on Friday May 24, as the Dutch dance duo headlines the night, which will also feature two of Saudi Arabia’s most talented selectors. Riyadh’s DUL, brings a heavy dose of deep house, while HiFi serves up her groovy electronic sets.
Beast House, May 24, 9pm to 3.30am, Beast House, JAX District, Riyadh. The price starts from SAR250 per person. Book your tickets here. @_beasthouse
Saturday May 25
Treat your senses to the captivating sights of cherry blossom
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Step into a virtual reality reverie of Japan’s most magical nightscapes at Rituals ‘Garden of Happiness’ at Riyadh Park. This immersive experience will let you explore the fascinating elements of cherry blossom and its fragrance right here in Riyadh. And whilst you’re there, be sure to take home the Rituals limited edition products to enhance your living spaces.
Rituals ‘Garden of Happiness’ Pop-Up Experience, May 23 to June 1, Sat to Thurs 10am to 11pm & Fri 2pm to 11pm, Riyadh Park, Main Atrium (near Gate 2). @ritualscosmeticsgcc
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
Dive into the latest fashion news and trends
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Engage in an insightful discussion on sustainable fashion at the French and Saudi Fashion Days. You’ll also get to engage with top influencers from France and Saudi Arabia and discover their impact on the fashion world, elevate your fashion game and master the art of draping techniques at the hands-on Draping Workshop.
French and Saudi Fashion Days, May 25 & May 26, 4pm to 9pm, Future Creative Residence Riyadh. @alliancefrancaise_ksa
Speed into a world of immersive racing
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Are you ready for a thrilling adventure? Hop into an electric kart and race around the track while interacting with virtual game elements projected on the track. BattleKart combines video gaming, augmented reality, and go-karting to create one unforgettable experience.
BattleKart Riyadh, 2pm to 2am, 3112 Al Bahar Al Arabi, Ishbiliyah, Riyadh 13226. The ticket is priced at SAR120 per person and can be purchased here. @battlekart_ruh
Drop it like it’s hot at Anghami Lab
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Get ready for the final techno lab for this season – The Last Drop at Anghami Lab. Immerse yourself in a stellar line-up of DJs amidst a special set set-up and mesmerising light show.
The Last Drop, May 25, 6pm to 3am, Anghami Lab, Boulevard City. Tickets start from SAR99 and can be purchased here. @anghamilabriyadh