10 fun things to do in Riyadh this week: December 8 to 11
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December is brimming with lots of winter cheer. Whether you’re soaking in the festive spirit, exploring new hideouts, or simply looking for ways to make the most of the week, look no further. In this weekly roundup, we’ve gathered some of the most exciting activities for you to check out with your loved ones – from cosy workshops to indulgent feasts – that will make this week one to remember.
Here are ten fun things to do in Riyadh this week.
Sunday December 8
SUSHISAMBA Riyadh is now open for lunch
Fancy a cracking lunch deal? Simply tap into SUSHISAMBA‘s Hayai lunch menu, a specially curated choice ideal for weekday business lunches. Available from Sunday to Thursday from 12.30pm to 4.30pm, the Hayai business lunch menu features two courses for SAR170 and a three-course experience, including dessert, at SAR195 per person, brimming with goodies in the form of Wagyu Gyoza with kabocha purée and more.
SUSHISAMBA Riyadh, KAFD, Sat to Wed 12.30pm to midnight, Thurs & Fri 12.30pm to 1am. Business lunch is available from Sun to Thurs 12.30pm to 4.30pm. Tel: 011 269 5347. @sushisamba.riyadh
Considering a piercing?
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Looking for the perfect place to get your first body piercing, or simply adding to the collection? We’ve got you covered with Constellations Luxury Piercings & Permanent Jewellery booth at the House of Nine pop-up. The piercing experience includes a consultation with a piercer who can advise on placement, before a quick and efficient piercing. Afterwards, browse its new jewellery collection and charms. Plus, it’s the last day of the House of Nine winter pop-up market, which brings together talented designers showcasing a curated selection of fashion, jewellery, and more, so run, don’t walk.
Constellations Luxury Piercings & Permanent Jewellery Booth at The House of Nine Winter Pop-Up Market, until Dec 8, 4pm to 11pm, Lift Space, Al Takhasusi, Almathar Ash ashimali 3rd floor, office 23/24. Free entry; no appointments needed. @constellations_piercing
Monday December 9
Check out Riyadh’s newest reformer studio
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Setting up shop in An Nakheel just last month, the supercool Sculptō Studio is all about reformer Pilates. So, if you’re new to those springy beds with neck braces and straps, you’ve come to the right place. Their beginner classes will walk you through the techniques slowly, and once you’ve got a few of those sessions under your belt, you can slide on over to their regular classes. They also do a dynamic cardio class for master core blasters who love to feel the burn. The best part? Sculptō Studio also offers a 7am class – ideal for those commuting in and out of the city like us. Don’t forget to grab a selection of premium cold-pressed juices and nutrient-packed smoothies from its health bar before you leave.
Sculpto Pilates Reformer Studio, 7064 Al Amir Abdulaziz Ibn Thunayyan, An Nakheel, Riyadh 12393, Sun, Mon & Thurs 8am to 8pm, Tues & Wed 9am to 8pm & Sat 11am to 6pm. Price starts from SAR350 per class and you can book your spot here. @sculpto.sa
This hidden gem serves great Asian grub
Home to modern Asian dishes, from the likes of duck bao and Burmese fermented tea leaf salad to the mouthwatering Javanese-inspired chicken curry, Kimyona is like a secret speakeasy. Nestled in a street-side gallery, you enter through a hidden door tucked behind one of the art pieces, which leads into a cosy, dimly-lit dining room. Grab a seat with your beau or pals, where you’ll also be able to explore the epic selection of mocktails, such as the matcha and mint infused Osaka Sanmi and Kimyona Breeze crafted with sweet basil, in the cool space.
Kimyona, Mon to Sat, noon to midnight, Kenzo Tange Airline Building, Street Number 40, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12212. Tel: 054 124 4923. @kimyona.sa
Tuesday December 10
For all Harry Potter fans
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Set to take shape as a theme park in Boulevard Riyadh City, the Harry Potter adventure will be the first of its kind in Riyadh. Picture all the locations from the Harry Potter films, complete with interactive technology in a Great Hall, a wonderful sorting experience, a Quidditch Pitch, and exclusive merchandise at The Wizarding World Shops. Feeling rundown after all the dun? Head on over to The Three Broomsticks Food Hall to try a refreshing Butterbeer and so much more.
Harry Potter Experience at Riyadh Season, Boulevard Riyadh City, daily 4pm to midnight. Tickets start at SAR60 and can be purchased here. @riyadhseason
Go for a bike ride around Wadi Hanifah
Start off your evening on a great note with this one-hour bike ride that takes you through the beautiful Wadi Hanifah trail. A bicycle, helmet, night vest, and water will be provided, so just turn up at the meeting point inside bike store Cycle Time in your comfortable sportswear.
Wadi Hanifah Bike Ride with RWG Community, Dec 10, 7pm to 8pm. SAR30 per person. DM @rwg_community or WhatsApp 058 218 2524.
Tuck into Austrian cuisine with a modern twist
If you haven’t heard, Sisi’s Cafe has opened its second Riyadh branch at Roshn Front, bringing its signature Austrian charm to Saudi Arabia by blending authentic Viennese flavours with international favourites. The menu boasts an array of specialties, including freshly baked goods, indulgent desserts, and an in-house coffee selection designed to delight every palate. We adore the terrace, with its cosy outdoor seating, perfect for those looking to enjoy Riyadh’s cool winter evenings.
Sisi’s Cafe, Roshn Front, Near Unit No. SFP09A, King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh 13413, daily 9am, to 1am. @sisiseateryksa
Wednesday December 11
The Groves returns for Chapter III
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The popular Riyadh Season zone is now open and has a new permanent home in Al Rafiah. Highlights at the revamped zone include The Groves Lake, alongside a floating stage that hosts live music performances viewable from the surrounding restaurants. Stroll through elegant European-style cottages, enjoy the unique retail shops, cosy cafes and the serene outdoor beauty. Feeling famished? Dining options range from South African-inspired Zama Zulu; Hawanim Groves City for authentic Arabic dishes complemented by live oud music, and Khawaja Yanni, where Greek, Armenian and Lebanese flavours meet to Japanese restaurant Yamagata, Vida Vera for a fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisines, and Little Krazy featuring eight live stations.
The Groves, Hizam Park, Ar Rafiah, Riyadh 12753, Sun to Wed 3.30pm to 1.30am, Thurs to Sat 3.30pm to 2am. General access starts from SAR65 and reservations can be made here or via The Groves mobile app. @the_groves_sa
A night of poetry and music
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Unleash your inner wordsmith at Al Jalees Culture Club’s 10th Anniversary Celebration, featuring the finest fusion of poetry and live music, where words take centre stage and diversity dances to the rhythm of verse. Expect a night filled with mesmerising performances, fun literary games, and heartfelt readings that’ll leave you spellbound. Whether you’re a seasoned poetic connoisseur or a rhyme rookie, grab your metaphors, pack your puns, and head over to huna Al Takhassusi for a night of rhythmic revelry you won’t soon forget.
Al Jalees Culture Club’s 10th Anniversary Celebration, Dec 11, 7pm to 9.30pm, huna Al Takhassusi. SAR80 per person and you can book your spot here. @jlbookclub
Decorate some gingerbread people
Get into the holiday spirit with Sociale Cafe’s Gingerbread Cookie Decorating Workshop, a delightful activity perfect for friends and families. This two-hour class is designed to bring joy and creativity to your festive celebrations, all while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere. With an array of colorful icing, sprinkles, and other fun decorations at your disposal, you’ll create beautiful and delicious cookies to take home and share.
Gingerbread Cookie Decorating Workshop, Dec 11, 8pm to 10pm, Sociale Cafe. SAR85 per person, including one drink. Book your spot here. Tel: 011 210 2664. @sociale.cafe
Images: Social / Suppplied