18 wonderful things to do in Riyadh this weekend: November 14 to 16
Let’s weekend it out…
Can’t decide what to do this weekend? While it’s never a bad idea to secure a booking at one of the best restaurants in the capital, rave it out all night, or check out the Riyadh Season zones, we’re always on the lookout for new, exciting pop-ups, openings and events.
Here are 18 wonderful things to do in Riyadh this weekend.
Thursday November 14
The Italian happy hour menu you need to try
If there’s one thing we can learn from our Italian friends, it’s that those pre-sunset hours are all about aperitivo. Il Baretto is now serving up a taste of la dolce vita with its new Aperitivo menu. Picture yourself sitting in the buzzy bar and lounge area, a refreshing spritz mocktail in hand. Available daily from 5pm to 7pm, visit Il Baretto to celebrate the end of the day and whet the appetite before supper – a popular pastime celebrated across Italy’s beautiful and diverse regions, for an aperitivo experience with five surprise Italian tapas-style dishes and one crafted beverage. Sounds like a match made in foodie heaven. Guests are invited to dine in Il Baretto’s bar and lounge area: an intimate and welcoming space perfect for everyone from couples on date nights to groups of friends and solo diners.
Il Baretto Aperitivo Menu, SAR135 per person, daily 5pm to 7pm, Il Baretto, Al Malqa, KAFD, Riyadh 13521. @ilbarettosa
Step into the world of Wicked
Exciting news for fans of Wicked. It looks like Wicked-fever has already taken over Riyadh with Wonder Garden showcasing dazzling pink and green displays. So, if you’re planning a trip to Riyadh Season’s latest attraction, be sure to pop in the Enchanted Tunnel. Available for a limited time only, this exclusive activation creates an ideal stage for Wicked’s immersive debut in Saudi Arabia. Walk through a journey lined with vibrant digital screens showcasing dazzling scenes from Wicked, immersing visitors in the enchanting world of Oz. The tunnel promises an interactive passage into the film’s magical universe, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that perfectly aligns with Wonder Garden’s immersive themes. The film will be released regionally on November 21.
Wonder Garden, daily 4pm to midnight, SAR25 for weekdays & SAR50 for weekends. Book your tickets to Wonder Garden here. @riyadhseason
An audio-visual experience like no other
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Riyadh party people, get ready. In Act, a label and event series by Saudi techno DJ/producer duo Dish Dash, will host two back-to-back parties on Thursday November 14 and Friday November 15 at Jax District. Look forward to global dance music heavyweights like Turkish producer Mahmut Orhan and Dutch house and techno giant and afterlife affiliate, Colyn along with the masterminds behind In Act, Dish Dash. They will be joined by a roster of established and up-and-coming international, regional and local selectors, including RDJ, BKR, MFK, Leen, Ant, Basha and Leigh Ross.
In Act Riyadh Presents Mahmut Orhan, Colyn & Dish Dash, Nov 14 & 15, 7pm to 3am, Jax District Biennale (B1). SAR200 per person and tickets can be purchased here. @inact_live
Check out the Arabian Horse tour
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The world’s most exclusive Arabian horse show series with the highest prize fund in the history of the sport conclude its exhilarating journey in Riyadh this weekend. Set against the iconic backdrop of the capital’s metropolitan skyline, KAFD X, this final leg of the 2024 Tour will see the Best Handler, Best Female, Best Male and Best Horse of 2024 be crowned. In addition to the captivating displays of equine beauty, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant cultural village. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Saudi traditions, indulging in traditional artisanal crafts and perusing the curated selection of retailers, including GCAT’s Official Merchandise shop.
Global Champions Arabians Tour 2024 Final, Nov 13 to 16, 3pm to 11pm, KAFD X. The general admission ticket is priced at SAR120 and can be purchased here. Free entry for kids under three. @arabianstour
Celebrate Omani National Day in Diriyah
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Make your way to Bujairi Terrace and dive into an array of vibrant activities. On Thursday November 14 and Friday November 15, you’ll find Omani vibes in the heart of Najd in celebration of Omani National Day. Take part in henna art and an Omani door decoration, enjoy the musical performances by an Omani band, and there’s even face painting for the kiddos.
Book your tickets to Bujairi Terrace here. @bujairiterrace
Party it up at Beast House
It’s going to be an exciting night at Beast House tonight (Thursday November 14), featuring UK’s Robert James, renowned for his intricately crafted house sets. Also on the line-up are Berlin-based Italian DJ, Topper , who serves up a dose of his signature psychedelia-inspired sounds, and Saudi DJ, Dabous , who sets the tone with his deep and tech house cuts.
Beast House, every Thurs & Fri, 9pm to 3am, Beast House, JAX District, Riyadh. Tickets start from SAR185 and can be purchased here. @_beasthouse
Friday November 15
The Magpies are in Riyadh
We’re coming to Riyadh 🇸🇦
Sign up to join us at an exclusive open training session with meet and greet at Al Awwal Park on Saturday 📲
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) November 12, 2024
Newcastle United fans, this one’s for you. Eddie Howe will put his Magpies squad through their paces for some warm-weather training at the Al Awwal Park Stadium on Saturday November 16, and you can be there. Tickets are available now for the open training session and fan event, which will take place at 10am at the home stadium of Al Nassr FC. Among those expected to travel to Riyadh are Fabian Schär, Dan Burn, Joelinton, Joe Willock, Sean Longstaff, and Harvey Barnes. Fans will have the opportunity to meet the players and management team after their training. Admission to the open training session is free, so please register your interest now to be part of what is sure to be a memorable event.
Newcastle United Open Training Session / Fan Event, Nov 16, 10am, Al Awwal Park Stadium, King Saud University, Riyadh 12372. Register here. @nufc
Pony rides for the kiddos
If you’re looking for a ride for the kids, Little Hooves lessons at Medhal Equestrian Centre are perfect for children between the ages of two and five years old. They will learn the basics of horseback riding such as mounting a horse and holding onto the reins. And if your child has never been up close to one of these friendly animals before, now’s the chance to give them an introduction. So, saddle up and enjoy the ride.
Medhal Little Hooves lessons, every Friday, 9am & 10am, Medhal Equestrian Centre. @medhalequestriancentre
Mummy and baby playdate
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Mum’s Way by certified birth and postpartum doula Yasmine Tracy Algosaibi offers a range of services to support expectant parents, including childbirth education, labour support, postpartum care, and breastfeeding support. Calling all lovely mums – take a well deserved break from the daily hustle and join Mum’s Way first community event on Friday November 15 for a rejuvenating meet-up of self-care and connection. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a glorious buffet breakfast catered by Sociale Cafe, a floral bouquet arrangement activity, as well as pop-ups and goodie bags by renowned brands. So, sit back, relax, and take the time to foster relationships with other mums who are in the same season of life as you. This event is for all expecting mothers and mothers with babies under 1 year old.
Babies, Bumps, Brunch & Bouquets, Nov 15, 10am to 1pm, Sociale Café, Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12223. SAR250 per person and you can book your spot here. Tel: 050 386 0239. @mumsway.co
Explore Thai culture and food
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If you haven’t heard, the Thailand International Mega Fair is bringing the rich culture of Thailand right to the heart of Riyadh. Discover Thailand’s national cuisine and other hearty dishes, and enjoy spectacular cultural performances. You can also look forward to the finest collection of Thailand’s scents, clothing items, and handcrafted accessories, plus a self-care corner complete with health and wellness products, along with makeup, and so much more.
Thailand International Mega Fair, Nov 15 & 16, 2pm to 9pm & Nov 17, 11am to 6pm, Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. Get your free pass here. @thailandmegafairriyadh
Bask in the glow of Candlelight Concerts
If hearing arrangements of Coldplay’s songs performed by a string quartet as it’s surrounded by thousands of flickering LED candles in the stunning Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel sounds dreamy, mark your calendars for Friday November 15. Taking music enthusiasts on a journey through Coldplay’s iconic tracks, The Riyadh Strings, featuring Rewan Abdelrazik, Elvin Najafov, Gevorg Sargsyan, and Zorik Bazinyan, will captivate the audience with masterpieces such as “Clocks”, “Fix You”, and “Yellow”. Or, if you’re less “Sky Full of Stars” and more Concerto No. 3 en F Major, Op.8 RV, 293, “Autumn”, there’s the same concept but with the music of Vivaldi. Tickets are priced at SAR425 for Zone A, SAR375 for Zone B, and SAR325 for Zone C, and you can also top up SAR350 for a three-course dinner experience at the hotel.
Candlelight Concerts, Nov 15, Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, 5.30pm & A Tribute to Coldplay, 7.30pm & 9.30pm. Tickets start from SAR325 and can be purchased here for Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and here for A Tribute to Coldplay.
Beast House round 2, anyone?
On Friday November 15, Beast House hosts an afro-beats and hip-hop takeover, headlined by one of the region’s afro-beats favourites, Laty . Also on the line-up are three of Black Sound’s best talents coming together for a label showcase; Saudi Arabia’s first Ampiano DJ, Lilas, hip-hop aficionado, Shancoty, and master of the rap-mashup, Rebel.
Beast House, every Thurs & Fri, 9pm to 3am, Beast House, JAX District, Riyadh. Tickets start from SAR185 and can be purchased here. @_beasthouse
Music and light show that will leave you in awe
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Get ready to dance to the music, sparkle under the vibrant lights, and bask in the beauty of an unforgettable weekend at “Dream Night Light Present Skinny” in Riyadh. This special event will feature the talented Saudi rapper Skinny, known for his unique style and captivating performances. Skinny blends visual art and music, creating an immersive experience that will leave you inspired and entertained.
Night Light, Nov 15, 8pm to 3am, Saudi Media City, Riyadh. Tickets start from SAR199 and can be purchased here.
Your rooftop adventure awaits
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One of Riyadh’s most stylish rooftop spots, Iris Café’s lively outdoor terrace draws in the crowds with its views and calming jungle of foliage. Among pops of greenery, you can chow down on sliders with a mocktail in hand as you overlook the skyline. What’s even better, self-made DJ and producer Satsi Sanlin will be performing at Iris for an unforgettable evening of Afro and Groovy House music, with support from the amazing DJs BKR and HAFFS. Limited seats are available for this exclusive event so be sure to reserve your table.
Yellowplus X Iris, Nov 15, 9pm to 3am, Iris Café – The Garden, Ramla Terraza, Riyadh 13321. Tickets start from SAR399 and they can be purchased here. Tel: 053 777 6452. @irisriyadh
Saturday November 16
Brunching at the new Flour & Firewood
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An utter gem up on Sulimaniyah, Flour & Firewood has quietly been offering one of the best brunches in Riyadh for a while now. Plus, it now has moved to a new space; you can’t help but feel quite smug sitting in the airy courtyard on a Friday. The coffee provides a good caffeine kick, and the menu with the egg dishes are spot on. Don’t forget to order their signature French toast, too – it’s fluffy and tender on the inside, gloriously browned on the outside.
Flour & Firewood, 7717 Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Rd, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12232, Mon to Sat 8am to 3.30pm & 6.30pm to midnight. @flourandfirewood
Grab all the goods at the Farmer’s Market
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Taking place from Thursday November 14 to Saturday November 16, be sure to arrive early at the Farmer’s Market by the Culinary Arts Commission if you want the best of the best, and the freshest of fresh local produce and crops. There’s also a fun families-only zone, a stage zone with amazing performances, and a farmer’s zone.
Farmer’s Market, Nov 14 to 16, 5pm to midnight, Riyadh Park. @mocculinary
Riyadh Season brings a new boxing event
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Set to happen on Saturday November 16, the inaugural Riyadh Season Latino Night by Golden Boy Promotions and BOXXER will be the biggest celebration of Latino fighting talent. There will be five bouts of exciting fighting action all happening at the brand-new Riyadh Season zone, The Venue. Participating champions include WBA Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez who’ll be up against WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Chris Billiam-Smith, to become the undisputed champion in the division. Outside the boxing ring, you can expect energetic vibes and vibrant beats, with the classic Mariachi band performing live at the event.
Latino Night, Nov 16, 6.30pm, The Venue, Riyad. SAR50 tickets are still available and they can be purchased here. @riyadhseason
Catch the travelling water circus
Fontana, the Middle East’s first travelling water circus, is hoisting its big top in Riyadh. Taking place until the end of December, the shows are held under the Fontana circus tent pitched up at the open space next to Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall. Brought to the capital by the Lebanese group Cirque Du Liban, the aquatic show combines a thrilling mix of mind-bending illusions and astounding acrobatics. Expect to see awe-inspiring dancers, gravity-defying aerialists, and incredible circus thrills that will enthral the entire family.
Fontana by Cirque Du Liban, until end-Dec, 6pm to 9pm (the show starts at 7pm sharp), Fontana Circus, Al Mughrizat, Riyadh (next to Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall). Tickets start from SAR95 and can be purchased here. @fontanashow