The ultimate A to Z guide to family fun in Saudi Arabia
This go-to guide rounds up the best family-friendly things to do, see and try across the Kingdom
Parents like me will know the feeling: you’ve just wrapped up one plan and are already thinking about the next way to keep little ones entertained.
In Saudi Arabia, there’s so much more to explore than your usual indoor theme parks in shopping centres. From easy weekend wins to last-minute day savers and attractions, there’s no shortage of ways to keep things fresh, fun and fuss-free.
Whether you’re navigating toddler energy, tween moods or hosting visiting family, this A to Z is your go-to for keeping everyone happy, curious and just the right amount of tired by the end of the day.
A is for… Adrena
If your idea of family fun involves an action-packed adventure, say hello to the newly opened Adrena. Situated along The Red Sea, this high-energy venue features Saudi Arabia’s largest surf pool, where waves can be customised for beginners and experienced riders alike. Plus, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained – from wakeboarding and snorkelling to skate parks, BMX tracks, and beach sports – plus splash zones and obstacle courses for younger visitors. It’s the kind of place where kids can burn off energy while parents can actually enjoy the day too.
B is for… Bouldering
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Looking for something a little different from the usual soft play? Bouldering is fast becoming a go-to for active families. Think short climbing walls, no ropes, and plenty of padded flooring, making it surprisingly beginner-friendly (and very satisfying once you reach the top). Saudi Arabia’s growing scene means there are now a few bouldering gyms dotted around the Kingdom, including spots like The Cave and Climb Up in Riyadh and Dyno in Dammam, where climbers of all levels – from total newbies to confident little daredevils – can get involved.
C is for… Camping in the desert
Core memories don’t have to be built out of extravagant gestures. Sometimes it’s as easy as loading up the car and heading for the dunes. For first-time campers and those without off-road vehicles, it makes sense to head for established, easily accessible sites. If you’re based in Riyadh, we recommend Thumamah National Park, just 40km from the city frenzy, for camping. Spacious open areas for a true “middle of nowhere” atmosphere, easy access yet peacefully distant from noise, and it’s perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing.
D is for… Diving & snorkelling
For families who love the water, Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coastline is hard to beat. Jeddah is the easy starting point, with calm, clear waters and coral reefs just offshore – perfect for first-time snorkellers and relaxed boat trips. Travel further south to the Farasan Islands, where the environment feels even more untouched, with pristine coral gardens, shallow reefs, and the chance to spot everything from colourful fish to dolphins in a protected marine reserve. Yanbu is another solid pick, known for its vibrant reefs and quieter, less crowded dive spots. And then there’s The Red Sea destination, where curated beach experiences and crystal-clear lagoons make it just as appealing for families as it is for seasoned divers. Whether you’re dipping your face in for the first time or going all in with a tank, it’s a simple way to make a day by the water feel a bit more special.
E is for… Escape rooms
Got older kids or teens to entertain? Escape rooms are a great option if you’re looking for something more hands-on. Think locked doors, ticking clocks, and a series of clues to solve before time runs out – all designed to make everyone think (and work together). From mystery themes to full-on horror setups, there are plenty of choices across Saudi Arabia, with many venues offering family-friendly rooms alongside more challenging experiences. It’s one of those activities where teamwork is key… and where parents don’t always get to be in charge.
F is for… Fossil rock
If ancient geological structures that are free to visit and furnish the soul with a simultaneous sense of awe and significance are on your spring break bingo card, boy, do we have news for you. Saudi Arabia is dotted with incredible fossil sites that turn a simple day out into something quietly mind-blowing, especially for curious kids. Just outside Riyadh, the Edge of the World is home to fossilised corals – a reminder that this dramatic desert landscape was once submerged beneath an ancient sea. Up north in AlUla, ongoing fossil discoveries continue to uncover layers of the region’s ancient history, giving visitors yet another reason to explore beyond the usual landmarks. Elsewhere across the Kingdom, you’ll also find traces of prehistoric life embedded in rocks, making it feel like a real-life treasure hunt. It’s an easy, rewarding form of exploration, and one of those outings that sneaks in a bit of wonder along the way.
G is for… Go-karting
When the kids have energy to burn and perhaps a bit of competitive spirit, go-karting is always a hit. Riyadh offers a variety of tracks where families can gear up and race, from indoor venues perfect for beginners to more high-speed outdoor tracks for confident drivers. Places like Doos Karting and BattleKart Riyadh keep the excitement alive with well-designed courses, safety briefings, and karts suitable for different age groups. It’s fast, somewhat noisy, and just the right amount of chaos in the best way.
H is for… Horse riding
For a slightly slower-paced yet equally exciting activity, horse riding is an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors with the whole family. There are many equestrian centres catering to all levels, whether it’s a first pony ride for little ones or proper lessons for older kids. Medhal Equestrian Centre in Riyadh, for instance, is a wonderful place to begin, with its Little Hooves experience every Friday morning that introduces children to ponies in a fun, hands-on manner, alongside riding and other activities. And if you’re in Jeddah, you can even take it to the shoreline with horse riding by the beach – easily one of the most scenic ways to spend a family day out.
I is for… Indoor play centres
When it’s hot (which, let’s be honest, is most of the time), indoor play centres are a lifesaver. Mostly found in shopping centres across Saudi Arabia, these spaces aren’t just your standard soft play setups. Think climbing frames, slides, and ball pits alongside sensory zones with sand, water, and interactive play, plus trampoline areas where kids can bounce off all that extra energy. In Riyadh, spots like SuperPark, the cluster of kids’ play areas at Park Avenue Mall, Play Makes Sense, and Kids Station (with multiple locations) make it easy to find one nearby. It’s the kind of place where kids can run wild or quietly get stuck into something hands-on, while parents hover nearby with a coffee in hand. Easy, air-conditioned, and guaranteed to fill a few hours – no overthinking required.
J is for… Junior golf
Want to introduce golf to your little ones? Across Saudi Arabia, many clubs and driving ranges offer family-friendly sessions where children can learn the basics, practise their swing, and enjoy plenty of open space. There are also indoor golf options popping up in the cities, featuring simulators that make it easy (and air-conditioned) to enjoy a game without committing to a full course. It’s low-pressure, surprisingly enjoyable, and a pleasant break from the usual high-energy outings – plus, there’s something quite satisfying about watching them actually focus for once.
K is for… KidZania
If you’ve got kids who love a bit of role play, KidZania in Jeddah is a top choice. This mini city lets little ones step into real-world roles – from doctors and firefighters to chefs and pilots – all while earning and spending their own KidZos. It’s immersive, educational without seeming so, and smartly designed to keep them busy for hours.
Location: KidZania, An Nuzhah, Mall of Arabia, Gate 6, Second Floor, Jeddah 23532
Timings: Sat to Wed 10am to midnight, Thurs 10am to 1am & Fri 2pm to 1am
Cost: SAR99 for children aged 4 to 14, SAR75 for toddlers aged 1 to 3 & SAR65 for an adult
L is for… Laser tag
Think dark arenas, neon lights, and a bit of friendly chaos as children (and competitive parents) race around trying to outscore each other. It’s widely available across Saudi Arabia, often tucked away in entertainment centres and malls, with game formats suitable for players of all ages and group sizes. Quick rounds, lots of movement, and just enough strategy to keep things interesting – though be prepared for frequent rematches.
M is for… Museums
Museums in Saudi Arabia are far from dull nowadays. In Riyadh and Jeddah, you’ll find a variety of cultural, historical, and interactive spaces that bring stories to life in ways that actually keep children engaged, while in Dhahran, Ithra stands out as one of the top spots to explore. Whether it’s delving into the Kingdom’s past or engaging with interactive displays, museums here are a great choice when you want something more enriching without losing their attention after just a few minutes.
N is for… Nature trails
When you just need to get everyone out of the house (and off their screens), nature trails are an easy win. In Riyadh alone, you have plenty of options, from the leafy paths of the Diplomatic Quarter (DQ) to the longer, scenic stretches along Wadi Hanifah, where you can walk, cycle or simply let the kids run ahead. Rock Park in DQ is one of our go-to spots, a favourite for kids to climb and swing at the playground. The best part about nature trails? They are low-effort, no booking required and work for all ages – whether it’s a quick evening stroll or a longer wander to burn off some energy.
O is for… Ocean Life
For a closer look at what lies beneath Saudi’s waters – without getting wet – ocean life experiences are a great shout. Fakieh Aquarium in Jeddah is a highlight, offering an easy, family-friendly way to explore the Red Sea’s marine world up close, from colourful reef fish to sharks gliding overhead in tunnel tanks. It’s compact enough to keep younger kids engaged, yet still interesting enough for older ones, with feeding shows and interactive moments. A great option when you want something indoors that still sparks a bit of curiosity.
Location: Fakieh Aquarium, Next to Al Nawras (opposite Al Shallal Theme Park), Corniche Road, Jeddah
Timings: Daily 10am to 11pm
Cost: SAR75 for adults visiting from Sat to Wed, SAR79 for adults visiting on Thurs & Fri | SAR65 for children visiting from Sat to Wed, SAR69 for children visiting on Thurs & Fri. Book here.
P is for… Playgrounds
Sometimes, you really can’t beat a good playground. Across Saudi Arabia, you’ll find well-designed spaces that consist of more than just a swing, featuring climbing frames, splash areas and plenty of room for children to run freely.
Q is for… Quad bike
For a proper dose of desert adventure, rev those engines and get ready to race off around the large dunes of the Red Sands. You’ll be spoilt for choice by the selection of ATVs for hire. Prices start at SAR40 per hour and vary by bike size. Avoid sinking into the soft sand by sticking to areas with tracks. For the best views, get to the top of the highest dunes. From the awe-inspiring red sand dunes to the plateau’s rocky outcrops on which Riyadh is based, the juxtaposition of scenery provides an atmospheric backdrop. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and some snacks in case you get hungry.
R is for… Rinks
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Whether it’s roller skating to music under neon lights or lacing up for a spin on the ice, there’s something oddly satisfying about getting everyone on wheels (or blades) and seeing who manages to stay upright. Roller rinks bring a more playful, throwback feel, while ice skating adds a bit of a challenge, especially for first-timers. In Riyadh, places like Cool Arena for ice skating, Spinners (closing next month, so last chance), and Teens keep things lively, while in Jeddah, you’ll find an ice rink at Al Shallal Theme Park. It’s one of those activities that’s just as entertaining to watch as it is to take part in.
S is for… Science centres
Yes, they do exist – and they’re actually quite impressive. Across Saudi Arabia, you’ll find a few science-focused spaces that make learning feel more like play, from interactive exhibits to hands-on displays explaining everything from space to energy. In Riyadh, King Salman Science Oasis makes big concepts feel easy to grasp, while in Dhahran, Ithra showcases science, creativity, and technology in a way that’s genuinely fun to explore. There’s also Scitech (Prince Sultan Science and Technology Centre) over in Al Khobar, with multiple exhibition halls covering everything from space and marine life to physics, plus an IMAX dome and even a small aquarium to keep things engaging.
T is for… Theme parks
You’ll find everything from smaller, easy-going spots like Al Watan Park in Riyadh to seaside favourites like Al Shallal Theme Park in Jeddah, with rides, games and plenty to keep kids entertained for hours. And then there’s Six Flags Qiddiya, bringing next-level rollercoasters and full-scale thrills into the mix. Whether you’re after a quick outing or a full day of rides and snacks, there’s something for every level of energy and bravery.
U is for… Ushaiqer Heritage Village
Step away from the usual city routine and head to Ushaiqer Heritage Village for a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s past. Just a couple of hours from Riyadh, this traditional Najdi village is filled with narrow alleyways, mud-brick houses and quiet courtyards that feel like something out of a storybook. It’s the kind of place where little ones can wander, peek into old homes and imagine what life was like before modern cities took over.
V is for… VR experiences
You’ll generally find VR experiences dotted around shopping centres and entertainment hubs across Saudi Arabia, where kids can jump into everything from racing games to full-on space missions and shootouts. It’s immersive, surprisingly addictive, and best suited for older kids and teens. But don’t be surprised if the adults get just as competitive.
W is for… Water parks
When the heat kicks in, water parks are an easy crowd-pleaser. There’s no shortage of spots to cool off in Saudi Arabia, Cyan Water Park in Jeddah, Water Island in Dammam, and Loopagoon in Dhahran. Then you’ve got the bigger hitters: Aquarabia bringing next-level slides and scale, and the Murjana Waterpark at Rixos Murjana for a more resort-style day out. Expect slides, lazy rivers, splash zones and plenty of ways to keep everyone cool.
X is for… Xtreme sports
For families with older children (and a bit of courage), Xtreme sports are where things get properly exciting. Think zip lining over vast desert landscapes, abseiling down rugged cliffs, and tackling adrenaline-fuelled challenges that make the most of Saudi Arabia’s dramatic scenery. Places like AlUla and Desert Rock at The Red Sea offer guided adventures that feel daring yet are well-organised and safe. It’s not an everyday outing, but for those up for it, it’s the kind of experience that gets everyone buzzing long after it’s over.
Y is for… Yalla Bowling
If bowling is right up your alley, get the fun times rolling at the wallet-friendly Yalla funtropolises. Often found as part of VOX Cinemas locations, they keep things fun and fuss-free, with family-friendly lanes, colourful lights and just enough friendly competition to keep everyone entertained. It’s one of those family outings where all ages can join in – whether the kids are sending balls straight down the middle or firmly into the gutter – and no one really minds who wins. Add in snacks, a bit of music and a few rematches, and you’ve got yourself a solid few hours sorted.
Z is for… Zoos & wildlife parks
For a relaxed, animal-filled day out, zoos and wildlife parks are always popular with children. Riyadh Zoo is now open again, making it an easy, central choice for families wanting to spend a few hours spotting everything from big cats to birds. If you’re up for a bit more of an adventure, NOFA Wildlife Park is worth the drive just outside the city, offering a safari-style experience that feels worlds away from the usual.
Images: Socials / What’s On Archives
