Things to do in Riyadh right now without spending a single riyal
Easy on the wallet, heavy on the fun
When the weather is as good as it has been in Riyadh lately, it’s no surprise if you want to spend all your days out and about. Those bills sure will rack up, though, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. These are the best free things to do in Riyadh right now.
Suwaidi Park
Suwaidi Park, a significant landmark in Riyadh that opened in 1983, once again gets a bright uplift for Riyadh Season’s most vibrant celebration of cultural diversity. Inspired by the beauty of secret gardens, the park transforms into a wonderland of colourful blooms, glowing installations, and art that celebrates culture and nature. The festival, which includes 11 cultures over 49 days, takes you on a journey around the world through traditional foods, music, dances, and handicrafts. And the best part? It’s all for free.
Location: Suwaidi Park, 2485 Al Hadeeqa, 7288, As Suwaidi, Riyadh 12791
Dates: Nov 2 to Dec 20
Boulevard City
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Ask anyone about Riyadh Season and one of the first things they would mention would be Boulevard Riyadh City. The most popular Riyadh Season zone is back for the 2025 edition, and it’s nothing like the previous versions.The zone is offering a ton of new experiences, events, and more.
Location: Hittin
Timings: 4pm to 4am
Banan
The Saudi International Handicrafts Week, also known as Banan, promises a feast for the senses, celebrating the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and showcasing handicrafts as an essential part of national identity. The event brings together artisans from across Saudi Arabia and over 40 countries. Banan – part of the Year of Handicrafts 2025 – is a vibrant hub of creativity and cultural exchange.
Location: Banan – Saudi International Handicrafts Week, Princess Nourah Bint Abdul Rahman University, King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh
Timings: Nov 13 to 26, 4pm to 11pm, except on Nov 16 & Nov 18, 10am to 10pm
Cost: Free. Book your free ticket here.
Shayb Ghudwanah Park
Acting as a tribute to Riyadh’s favourite valley park, Wadi Hanifa, the park extends over five kilometres, providing an ideal environment for summer activities, walking, and recreation. Designed to be an integrated destination, Shayb Ghudwanah Park in Riyadh boasts 22 kilometres of walking trails and seating areas overlooking the water. Spanning over 65,000 square metres, it also features 13 children’s playgrounds and multi-use sports facilities, allowing everyone to exercise, stroll, or relax in a safe and attractive environment.
Location: : 7613 Abdul Rahman Al Haji, Dhahrat Al Badi’ah
Timings: 24-hours
Two Swords and a Palm: Archive of the Saudi Emblem
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To come:
Noor Riyadh
Happening from Thursday November 20 to Saturday December 6, Noor Riyadh 2025 will return bigger and brighter than ever this year, living up to its title of the largest light art festival in the world. Artworks will be displayed across the city in six locations: Qasr Al-Hokm district, King Abdulaziz Historical Centre, stc Metro Station, King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Station, Public Investment Fund Tower, and JAX District. Held under the theme In the Blink of an Eye, the theme explores how light interacts with the city, its people, and time—creating an unforgettable experience. The event is part of Riyadh Art, one of the four major projects under the mandate of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City that aim to turn the capital into “a gallery without walls.”
Visit: riyadhart.sa
