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10 amazing things to do in Riyadh over the long weekend: February 19 to 22

We’re all for a three-day weekend vibe

Who’s ready to paint the town green and white? It’s the Saudi Founding Day weekend, and for some of us, we get to enjoy a long weekend. If you’re scouring for ideas to make the most of your Founding Day long weekend in Riyadh, you’ve come to the right place.

Bearing in mind it’s also Ramadan, expect the city to be extra quiet during the day. Nonetheless, we’ve included activities for the Sunday public holiday. Here are ten amazing things to do in Riyadh over the long weekend.

Iftar among the greens

 

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Break your fast in a setting that feels worlds away from the city at Riyadh Golf Club. Surrounded by lush fairways, this elegant iftar pairs serene views with an exceptional dining experience. Ideal for a relaxed family evening or a peaceful catch-up with friends.

Location: Riyadh Golf Club, King Abdulaziz Rd, Al Aarid, Riyadh 13352

Cost: SAR250 per person, 50 per cent off for children ages seven to 12 & complimentary for children under seven

Contact: 055 518 7680

An Aladdin-inspired family fun day

Little ones can dive into a morning of imagination at Play Makes Sense this Friday February 20. Expect elevated sensory and pretend play, creative crafts, live storytelling, face painting and balloon magic – all wrapped in an intimate, joy-filled setting designed for family time.

Location: Play Makes Sense, 7260 King Abdulaziz Rd, Ar Rabi, Riyadh 13315

Timings: Feb 20, 10am to noon

Cost: SAR99 per child. Book your spot here.

Culture after dark

Celebrate a special weekend of heritage at the National Museum in Riyadh. Combining the richness of heritage with interactive experiences, the programme features exhibits inspired by the past, engaging storytelling, culinary experiences and activities tailored for different age groups. The programmes are scheduled around two main themes: Founding Day events from February 19 to 22, focusing on reviving the legacy of the first Saudi state and highlighting the values that have shaped the Kingdom’s identity over the past three centuries; and Ramadan events from February 19 to March 6, recreating the spirit of the holy month through cultural programmes that foster social interaction and celebrate authentic heritage.

Location: The National Museum, King Saud Rd, Riyadh

Timings: 10pm to 1am

Festival weekend at Tuwaiq Sculpture

Ease into the weekend with an evening of art, reflection and atmosphere at Tuwaiq Sculpture. Look forward to creative activations, a Ramadan bazaar, traditional board and card games, interactive workshops, and of course, plenty of photo opp with the sculptures.

Location: Prince Mohammed Bin Abdulaziz Street (Tahlia Street)

Timings: Until Feb 22, 9pm to 2am

Cost: Free entry but you’re required to book your tickets here.

Yoga on the roof

things to do in Riyadh to make you feel your best

Slow things down with a rooftop yoga session under open skies this weekend. Expect gentle movement, deep breaths, and a calm, above-the-city atmosphere designed to help you unwind and reset.

Location: Bonjour Arabia, Samhaniyah, Diriyah 13712

Timings: Every Fri & Sat, From 6pm

Cost: SAR250

Contact: 050 371 9298 | @bonjour.arabia

Ramadan nights at Bujairi Terrace

Diriyah’s evenings get a cultural glow-up with a line-up of immersive Ramadan activities at Bujairi Terrace. From moon gazing and Arabic calligraphy to caricature painting on pottery, candle making and handcrafted keepsakes, it’s a relaxed, feel-good way to soak up the season.

Location: Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah

Timings: 4pm to 3am

Escape to serenity Nofa Riyadh

Swap the city buzz for open skies and villa calm with a restorative Ramadan stay at NOFA Riyadh. Think privacy, peaceful landscapes, and slow evenings designed for reflection and meaningful connection. Even better? A limited-time 50 per cent Ramadan offer on villas makes this the perfect excuse for a weekend reset or a special staycation.

Location: Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort, Riyadh Makkah Highway, Exit 857

Contact: WhatsApp 059 657 8857

Pilates with a Ramadan glow

Ladies, get your Saturday sparkle on. Join the Saudi Pilates Collective (SPC) for an energising Pilates session at Base & Boon Diriyah this Saturday (February 21) night. Flow with fellow movers, feel good, and take home a limited-edition Ramadan-exclusive bag charm – the perfect chic accent for your everyday style.

Location: SPC Community Event, Base and Boon Diriyah, Zallal, Diriyah 13712

Timings: Feb 21, 10pm to 11pm

Cost: SAR295. Book your spot here.

Festive nights at Biennale

From the melodies of Oud and Qanun to nostalgic board games and regional flavours, Founding Day comes alive at the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale 2026 in Diriyah. Expect a vibrant mix of music, food, play, and community moments set against the creative backdrop of JAX District. While you’re there, soak up the Biennale’s third edition, where this year’s theme, In Interludes and Transitions, explores movement, change, and cultural connections through works by an international roster of artists. A perfect blend of heritage and contemporary creativity.

Location: JAX District, Riyadh

Timings: Founding Day Celebrations Feb 20 to 22, 8pm to 1am

Get your free tickets here @biennale_sa

Create your very own customised fragrance

perfume making

No plans on Saudi Founding Day this Sunday? Unleash your creative side at a hands-on perfume-making workshop. Learn the art of blending fragrances, discover your own scent profile, and take home a bespoke perfume that’s uniquely you. Perfect for a creative date, a girls’ day out, or just something new to try.

Location: Beast House, JAX District

Timings: Feb 22, 9pm to 10pm

Cost: SAR210. Book your spot here.

Images: Social / Unsplash