10 brilliant things to do in Riyadh this weekend: November 21 to 23
You won’t be short of epic things to do…
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 10 brilliant things to do in Riyadh this weekend.
Thursday November 21
Experience thrilling air shows
Prepare for take-off. Aviation enthusiasts and families alike will be part of the fun again with the return of the Saudi General Aviation Airshow – Sand & Fun 2024 this weekend. On-ground, visitors will also have the unique opportunity to get up close with a diverse range of aircraft on display and meet aviation clubs from around the world, all designed to celebrate aviation culture and inspire the next generation of enthusiasts. Specially planned family-friendly activities – spanning an exciting concert line-up and a variety of entertainment options, including exhibitions, interactive experiences, live shows, and immersive displays – will also offer young visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of aviation.
Saudi General Aviation Airshow – Sand & Fun 2024, Nov 19 to 23, 9.30am to 8pm, Al-Thumamah Airport, Riyadh. Tickets start from SAR50 and can be purchased here.
Check out the Dior exhibition
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“Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” is here in Riyadh, and it’s all we can talk about. For the first time in Saudi Arabia, fashion lovers will soon be able to view over 500 objects, including accessories and fragrances, and legendary editorials and illustrations showcasing Dior’s designs. The House’s multiple sources of inspiration – from Versailles and the Age of Enlightenment to the splendour of gardens and flowers – will also be on display at the National Museum of Saudi Arabia’s iteration of the exhibit.
Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams, Nov 21 to Apr 2, Mon, Tues & Wed 11am to 11pm, Thurs & Sat noon to midnight, Fri 4pm to midnight, National Museum of Saudi Arabia, Al Murabba, Riyadh. Book your tickets here. @riyadhseason
Book in a business lunch
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Nestled within The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh, Azzurro is a great shout for an indulgent Italian meal, combining both a refined sophisticated atmosphere as well as keeping a warm buzz as you enter. Serving pasta dishes alongside a variety of meat and seasonal seafood, it is the perfect space for a relaxed meal. On top that, their business lunch menu offers a two-course meal for just SAR110 or SAR140 for three courses.
Business Lunch at Azzurro, Sun to Thurs, noon to 3.30pm, The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh. Tel: 011 802 8888. @theritzcarltonruh
Dress up as Wicked characters for free entry into Wonder Garden
You’re going to be pop-u-lar… if you’re looking to embody the green-skinned Elphaba or the glamorous Glinda. On Thursday November 21, come dressed in your creative Wicked costumes, your best Princess dresses, or full green or pink outfit, and you’ll get to enter Wonder Garden for free. So grab your crew, pick your character, and get ready to go to Oz… oh wait, we meant Wonder Garden.
Wonder Garden, Al Qirawan, Sun to Wed 4pm to midnight & Thu to Sat 5pm to midnight. SAR50 for weekends & SAR25 for weekdays. Get your tickets here.
Party it up at Beast House
Beast House welcomes the hypnotic house sets of Swiss DJ and producer, BanzaiXX, who anchors a night featuring the minimal techno and microhouse sets of Lenny Mailleau, one half of French duo, Zendid, and the smooth selections of local favourite, JOJ.
Beast House, every Thurs & Fri, 9pm to 3am, Beast House, JAX District, Riyadh. Tickets start from SAR250 and can be purchased here. @_beasthouse
Friday November 22
An electrifying weekend of world-class equestrian sport
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Set against the stunning backdrop of Riyadh’s Financial District, Riyadh gears up to host the eagerly awaited GC Playoffs for the very first time. This landmark event will see the best riders in the world go head-to-head in an adrenaline-fueled showdown, where every second, every jump, and every stride will count. The pressure is immense, the atmosphere electric, and the competition fierce. There is no second chance; only one rider will emerge victorious.
Global Champions Playoffs Riyadh, Nov 20 to 23, 9am to midnight, KAFD. Tickets start from SAR120 and can be purchased here.
Ignite your senses at the Japan Festival 2024
If you’re a Japanese pop culture enthusiast, head to the Cultural Palace in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter on November 22 & 23 for the Japan Festival. You will have an explosive experience of all things Japanese, traditional and contemporary. The event will feature a Japanese speech contest and stage performances such as anime song concerts and martial arts demonstrations.
Japan Festival 2024, Nov 22, 5pm to 10pm & Nov 23, 3pm to 10pm, Cultural Palace, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh. Admission is free, but advanced registration (before Nov 17) is required here. @japanembassy_ksa
Continue dancing the night away at Beast House
Friday (November 22) brings the sound of London to the Beast House stage with East End Dubs headlining with his trademark blend of house, garage, and tech. Also on the lineup are Riyadh house favourite, Mishal, and the young talent who won last year’s Storm Shaker, Jafar.
Beast House, every Thurs & Fri, 9pm to 3am, Beast House, JAX District, Riyadh. Tickets start from SAR250 and can be purchased here. @_beasthouse
Saturday November 23
Get your breakfast fix at Jon & Vinny’s
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If you haven’t heard, LA’s favourite casual Italian spot, Jon & Vinny’s, is open for breakfast. We’ve always loved the cosy and minimalist aesthetic featuring sleek blonde wood seating, with pops of green and their branded display of pizza boxes. The ricotta bruschetta and buttermilk pancakes are the things to get here.
Jon & Vinny’s Riyadh, Breakfast is available from Sun to Thurs 8am to 11.30am, Fri & Sat 8am to 12.30pm, The Elite, Al Dabbab Street, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh 12234. Tel: 9200 18212. @jonandvinnys.ksa
Find your inner cowboy at this rugged town
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Take a step back in time and experience the Wild West in its modern-day form, complete with cowboys, good food, and fun. There’s also plenty of fun at the ranch for your family excursion. Go on a pony ride, hop on the train, take a shot at archery, catch the cowboy show (it feels like you’re watching a Western movie play out as the actors mix suspense, action, and even some comedy into their routines), participate in live performances, and let the little ones explore the kid’s area filled with slides, a ball pit, and more. Tickets, priced at SAR35, are required to enter South West Cowboy Town, which you can purchase on site or via MyTable app.
South West Cowboy Town, 4pm to midnight, AlAmaria Rd, Riyadh 13933.