10 unmissable things to do in Riyadh this week: January 25 to 28
What’s On all week
Looking for something fun to do today? Something eye-opening to watch tonight? Something delicious to eat tomorrow? Our guide to things to do this week in Riyadh is personally curated, ensuring there’s always a diverse range of events for you to choose from. Get stuck in.
Here are all the best things to do in Riyadh this week: January 25 to 28.
Sunday January 25
Bid farewell to Sociale
Sociale, a massive pillar when it comes to cafes in Riyadh (and one of this reporter’s favourites), is closing up its coveted location here on Riyadh’s Tahlia Street. This week marks the brand’s final few days in the Kingdom. Originally from Lebanon, where it’s known as Cantina Sociale, Riyadh’s Sociale Cafe has been open for four years now and serves up cosy vibes, a chill ambience, and a menu that has something for everyone.
Location: Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, As Sulimaniyah
Timing: 8am to 12.45am
Smar is back in Riyadh
things to do in Riyadh this week: January 25 to 28
Winter in Riyadh is when all the iconic outdoor events come back to life. Located in Diriyah, Smar is a distinctive entertainment destination offering a unique experience that blends entertainment and recreational facilities in an open and beautiful environment. “Smar” aims to provide areas for people of all ages to sit and relax.
Location: Alammariah
Timings: 4pm to 1am
Cost: SAR50, book here
Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival 2026
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The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Camel Festival 2026, held at Al Janadriyah Camel Racing Track in Riyadh, offers an integrated experience that combines the authenticity of heritage with the spirit of modern entertainment. Visitors can enjoy watching competitive camel races and camel beauty contests that highlight the elegance and originality of this rich legacy, alongside a vibrant events village featuring a Baloot tournament and a diverse selection of restaurants, cafés, and retail outlets.
Location: Janadriyah Camel Stadium
Timing: 1pm to 10pm
Dates: Jan 23 to Jan 31
Cost: SAR6, book here
Monday January 26
Get your hands dirty at Musehouse
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Caught the Monday blues? Channel your inner artist at the newly opened, ladies-only hub of creativity, Musehouse, a pottery and art studio located in An Narjis. Take your pick from pottery making, colouring, making your own pottery medal, and more.
Location: Uthman Ibn Affan Rd, An Narjis
Timing: Tue to Sun 5pm to 8.30pm, Closed Mon
Cooking experience with a chef
The cooking masterclass is a creative educational platform during the Saudi International Marine Exhibition 2026, offering live cooking lessons and workshops taught by expert chefs. The masterclass will include more than 20 delicious Saudi and international recipes, prepared by various chefs. Participants will have the opportunity to learn cooking techniques from culinary experts.
Location: Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre
Get your pumped-up kicks at Sneaker Con
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Calling all sneakerheads. The stage is set for the second edition of Sneaker Con in Riyadh. Taking place at Boulevard City from Monday January 26 to Wednesday January 28, this popular event is where street culture enthusiasts gather to explore the latest drops and mad drips. Rare and exclusive kicks are up for grabs. And while we don’t have the full list of products available, attendees at this year’s event can expect the same level of swag as last year.
Location: Sneaker Con 2026, Boulevard City, Riyadh
Timings: Jan 26 to 28, 4pm to midnight
Cost: Free entry, but you’re required to book your entry ticket here
Tuesday January 27
Desert Dreaming at Ramalina Festival
Located in the heart of Riyadh, the Ramalina Festival is a celebration of culture, entertainment, and community. This unique event combines a range of exciting indoor games, the best coffee experiences, and a variety of diverse cuisines perfect for everyone.
Location: MHG6+8PX Irqah, Riyadh
Date: Sat Jan 31
Cost: SAR50, book here
Explore the AlQaisariah Terrace
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It truly doesn’t get better than an exceptional tasting experience as part of AlDirah Winter Season, where breathtaking views blend seamlessly with the spirit of Riyadh and its authentic flavours. This thoughtfully curated gastronomic journey takes you from the staple shawarma and neighbourhood Falafel Sabbah that bring you back to the streets of old Riyadh, to traditional Bukhari, and a soufflé that takes you right back to where it all began.
Location: 7HP8JPH5+83
Timing: Until Apr 10
Cost: SAR125, book here
Wednesday January 28
Sip on some world-class hot chocolate
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At the risk of sounding biased, we once again bring your attention to Urth Caffé, our winner for the 2025 What’s On Saudi Arabia Awards for favourite cafe. Consistently offering a homey atmosphere, no matter which branch you sit yourself down in, it comes as no surprise that the cafe also offers one of the city’s favourite hot chocolates in the months that you so desperately need it.
Location: Various locations.
Discover the art of wedding traditions
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Weddings are seldom anything but a lavish affair here in Saudi Arabia, and this brand-new exhibition in Riyadh celebrates just that. Meet A Night of a Lifetime by SAMoCA at JAX. Running from January 26 to April 18, A Night of a Lifetime by SAMoCA at JAX was curated by Philippe Castro and Alaa Tarabzouni. The exhibition explores the themes of love, ritual, heritage, and the emotional architecture of weddings through a wide range of diverse media artworks.
Location: SAMoCA at JAX
Dates: Jan 26 to Apr 18
Images: Social/Platinumlist/What’s On Archives
