10 laid-back things to do in Riyadh this weekend: March 12 to 14
Happy weekend
If you’re planning to keep things simple this weekend – whether that’s heading out for a meal, a cultural outing, or simply spending time with family – there are a few ways to spend time around the city.
Here are 10 laid-back things to do in Riyadh this weekend.
An easy outdoor day out at Dirab Valley
If you’re looking to escape the city for a bit, this daily experience at Dirab Valley provides a laid-back outdoor escape just outside Riyadh. Spend the day exploring the viewpoint, cycling, trying archery, or letting the children enjoy the kids’ club. There’s also free walking around the grounds and a tranquil Olive Garden lounge to unwind in – ideal for an easy family day trip.
Location: OMSA6426، 6426 قريه ديراب 923، 5052، ضرما 14977, Saudi Arabia
Timings: Sat to Thurs, 3pm to 7pm
Cost: SAR99. Book your tickets here.
Walk among butterflies at the Butterfly Biosphere
For a calm and slightly magical outing, step into the Butterfly Biosphere, which is home to butterflies from around the world. Watch them flutter freely around you as you explore an environment designed to mimic their natural habitat, with plenty of colourful species to discover along the way. It’s a tranquil experience for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a slower-paced activity this weekend.
Location: Riyadh Oases – FoodSphere, 6871 Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh
Timings: Daily 8.30pm to 1.30am
Cost: SAR39 for adults & SAR19 for those ages two to 16. Book your tickets here.
Try bungee fitness in Riyadh
If you’re in the mood to try something different, this bungee fitness session offers a fun, low-impact way to get moving. Expect a playful workout that combines light cardio, resistance, and plenty of bounce – perfect for first-timers wanting to try a new fitness experience in Riyadh.
Location: Cloud Nine, An Nakheel, 7249 Al Takhassusi Road, Riyadh
Timings: Mar 12 & 14, 8pm
Cost: SAR245. Book here.
A majlis-style Iftar at Beast House
View this post on Instagram
Wondering where to do Iftar this weekend? Head to Beast House in Diriyah’s JAX District, where a curated Ramadan iftar is served in a relaxed, creative setting. Expect a cosy majlis-style atmosphere, good food and a laid-back vibe that feels a little different from the usual Ramadan tents.
Location: Beast House, JAX District
Timings: Mon to Sat, 5.30pm to 2am
Cost: SAR180 per person. Book here.
Step inside Diriyah’s historic At-Turaif palaces
For a laid-back yet meaningful cultural outing, visit Diriyah’s UNESCO-listed At-Turaif district for Hal Al-Qusur. The experience grants access to historic palaces where visitors can learn about the stories of the imams, princes, and leaders who shaped Saudi Arabia, complemented by live performances, cultural talks, and immersive exhibitions. It offers a relaxed way to spend an evening absorbing Saudi history in its original setting.
Location: At-Turaif Historical District, Diriyah
Timings: Mon to Sat, 8pm to 2am
Cost: SAR40. Book your tickets here.
Fairytales & Friends kids’ play day
View this post on Instagram
If you’re looking for something for the little ones, this fairytale-themed play day brings storytelling to life. Expect sensory play, pretend play, arts and crafts, and face painting, plus live performances of Little Red Riding Hood and Hansel and Gretel.
Location: Play Makes Sense, 7260 King Abdulaziz Rd, Ar Rabi, Riyadh 13315
Timings: Mar 13, 10am to 2pm
Cost: SAR99 per child. Book your spot here.
Pilates and Iftar evening at Jareed Hotel
View this post on Instagram
Move, stretch, and then break your fast together at this pre-iftar Pilates session hosted by Flex & Flow at Jareed Hotel. The mat class begins at 4.30pm on Saturday March 14, followed by Iftar at Morini Restaurant. Open to all levels, with both men and women welcome, it’s a relaxed and social way to spend a Ramadan evening. Reserve your spot through the Flex&Flow app.
Location: Jareed Hotel, The Boulevard, Prince Turki Bin Abdulaziz Road, Riyadh 11321
Timings: Mar 14, 4.30pm onwards
Cost: SAR375
Al Huwayett cultural play experience in Diriyah
For a relaxed family outing, head to Al Huwayett, an engaging outdoor space in Diriyah where children can explore storytelling, play, and Saudi heritage in a creative environment. The experience combines culture and imagination through interactive activities specially designed for kids, making it a delightful daytime adventure for families this weekend.
Location: Al Huwayett, 3332 Al Mudhiba, Al Bujairi, 7375, Riyadh 13711
Timings: 4.30pm to 10.30pm
Cost: SAR80 per child (including entry for one adult), SAR25 for an additional adult ticket. Book here.
Ramadan pop-up shopping night
View this post on Instagram
Looking for a laid-back late-night outing with friends? Visit Milh Wellness & Beauty Space on Saturday March 14 for a Ramadan pop-up by Randezvous. Browse timeless fashion pieces, enjoy beauty treatments, and sip matcha from Good News while shopping.
Location: Milh Wellness & Beauty Space, Ash Shaikh Abdullah Al Anqari, Riyadh 12254
Timings: Mar 14, 9.30pm to 1.30am
Check out Riyadh’s newest street food destination
Food lovers should make their way to Qasr Al-Hukm District, where a new open-air dining concept, Sikkat Al-Atimah, has just opened. Launched by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, the vibrant food hub brings together a range of culinary concepts in a market-style setting. Expect a buzzing evening atmosphere with live cooking, street-food favourites, and a variety of flavours to explore – perfect for a casual outing this weekend.
Location: Sikkat Al-Atimah, Qasr Al-Hukm
Ramadan timings: 5pm to 3am
Images: Social / What’s On Archives
