12 top things to do in Riyadh this week: Aug 18 to Aug 21
It’s a new week…
It’s nearly time for back-to-school season here in Riyadh, with a few schools and universities already open. And you know what that means, stakes for after-school activities just got higher. Here are all the top things to do in Riyadh this week.
Sunday August 18
Summer lunch at Crazy Pizza
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Thin, blistered, decadent, and cool – that’s the way of the yeast-free pizza at Crazy Pizza. And if you still haven’t checked out its space, we particularly love the Diplomatic Quarter’s Oud Square branch, with a mix of local Arabian architecture and modern, rich brick-coloured exterior. The summer lunch menu at Crazy Pizza costs an affordable SAR85.
Crazy Pizza, two locations, Oud Square in Diplomatic Quarter & As Sulimaniyah. Business lunch is available Sun to Thurs 1pm to 5pm. Tel: 9200 07275. @crazypizza.saudi
Head to the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth exhibition
From Sunday August 11 to Saturday August 24, visitors can immerse themselves in the epic role-playing game as the more than 15,000-square-foot experience brings Final Fantasy VII to life. The exhibition is a collaboration between Qiddiya City and Square Enix.
Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: The Exhibition, until Aug 24, 6pm to 2am, Boulevard Riyadh City. Free entry but you need to book your spot here. @ewc_en
Cool down with gelato at La Romana dal 1947
All the way from Italy to Riyadh, La Romana dal 1947 is now open in The Zone. The sleek store serves top-tier artisan gelato and ice cream, the menu is divided into flavours of the day which normally includes about 12 options. The spot also offers waffles, crepes, cakes, and more.
La Romana dal 1947, The Zone, Al Takhassousi, Al Mohammadiyyah, Sat to Wed 1pm to 1am, Thu to Fri 2pm to 2am. @laromanadal1947_k.s.a
Enjoy a candlelit dinner at Los Bandidos
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The ever-so-elegant restaurant from Puerto Rico is inviting you to enjoy a night of live music and candles. Enjoy your dinner to the notes of a wonderful piano and violin as they play you into an evening full of good food, good vibes, and more every Sunday.
Los Bandidos, Midtown Complex, Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, Prince Andulaziz Ibn Musaid Ibn Jalawi St, daily noon to midnight. @losbandidos_ksa
Monday August 19
Attend Misk’s summer exhibition
Happening until Thursday August 29, the open call exhibition features Saudi artists of all levels to explore the theme of “Media and Technology.” Exploring the theme through photography, videography, digital art, installations, and multidisciplinary artworks, the exhibition invites you to explore how the evolving visual landscapes of the Kingdom shape human experience and identity.
Summer exhibition at Misk Art Institute, Prince Faisal bin Fahd Arts Hall, Sat to Thu 4pm to 10pm. miskartinstitute.org
Find your strongest self via art therapy
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Riyadh is slowly but surely becoming the art capital of the country. And with powerhouses of creativity like Atrum and Lift taking centre stage in promoting art, it’s safe to say we’re very close. And now the two organisations are collaborating to bring us summer events with Atrum and Lift. On Monday, you can enjoy self-art therapy with Norah Kareem to reconnect with what matters.
Summer events with Atrum and Lift, Al Mathar Ash Shamali, Riyadh 12332. @atrum.sa and @lift.ksa
Get free entry to Diriyah
Diriyah is a gem in Riyadh for a multitude of reasons. Whether you’re looking for that perfect mesh between the past, present, and future or a dining destination like no other, this is the place to be. And now, you can get free entry to Diriyah.
Starting this week and going on until Saturday August 31, access to At-Turaif and luxury fine-dining destination Bujairi Terrace is completely free until 5pm, you just need to book a pass through Diriyah’s official channels.
Free access to Diriyah, At-Turaif and Bujairi Terrace, Sun to Thu 9am to 5pm. @visitdiriyah
Tuesday August 20
Witness a celebrity show match featuring Neymar Jr.
Happening on Tuesday August 20, the major star will be a part of a unique show match experience in Riyadh. Neymar Jr. will be playing Counter-Strike 2, Rocket League and Tekken 8 at the Qiddiya Arena. The celebrity gaming match will take place at 9pm, and in between the games, fans can look forward to mini-challenges, interviews, and exclusive interactions, including raffles for signed merchandise.
Celebrity gaming match with Neymar Jr., Boulevard Riyadh City, 9pm. @ewc_en
Speed into a world of immersive racing
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
Head to Barbar’s third branch
Lebanese dining institution Barbar just opened its third location on Othman bin Affan Street in Riyadh. Whether you just want to share some Lebanese mezze or you’re after a hearty meal, Barbar’s wide range of dishes – all at wallet-friendly prices – will certainly meet your expectations.
Barbar, At Taawun, Sat to Thu 11am to 3am, Fri 11am to 3.30am. @barbargcc
Wednesday August 21
Paint on ceramic at Sociale
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Art events seem to be the theme in Riyadh this week. At Sociale Cafe, you can grab a brush and let your creative side run wild on ceramic.
Sociale Cafe, Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, As Sulimaniyah, 8pm to 10pm. @sociale.events
Harry Potter trivia
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Calling all Potterheads, this one’s for you. Alsaqeefa is hosting an all-new quiz night dedicated to asking you all the right questions about everyone’s favourite sci-fi series, brought to you by your wonderful host, Ace.
Harry Potter trivia night, Abi Bakr As Siddiq Rd, An Narjis, 8pm to 10pm. SAR40 per person. @alsaqeefa