20 brilliant things to do in Riyadh this long weekend: September 19 to 23
Embracing the long weekend vibes…
Who’s ready to paint the town green and white? It’s the Saudi National Day weekend, and it’s a buzzing time for everyone as we gear up to celebrate the Kingdom’s 94th birthday. Plus, for some of us, we get to enjoy a long weekend. If you’re scouring for ideas to make the most of your Saudi National Day 2024 long weekend in Riyadh, you’ve come to the right place.
Here are 20 brilliant things to do in Riyadh over the Saudi National Day long weekend.
Thursday September 19
Indulge in the ultimate Saudi National Day pampering experience
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Ladies, visit The Spa | Nail Shop for some brilliant Saudi National Day treats. Enjoy a classic manicure and pedicure with paraffin for SAR294, or sign up for the Quick Escape Package, which consists of a classic manicure and pedicure, a 60-minute massage, and access to the relaxation lounge for SAR594. Top up SAR700 more for the Pamper Me package, and you’ll enjoy everything offered under the Quick Escape, plus a cleansing facial and a Moroccan bath. If you’ve always wanted to try The Royal Moroccan Bath, the offer of just SAR494 is a steal. We love the 94 references to celebrate the 94th National Day.
The Spa | Nail Shop, multiple locations, ncludeing U Walk in Riyadh, Sat to Thurs noon to 10pm. @thespanailshop
Check out The Middle East’s first travelling water circus
Fontana, the Middle East’s first travelling water circus, is hoisting its big top in Riyadh. Taking place until the end of December, the shows are held under the Fontana circus tent pitched up at the open space next to Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall. Brought to the capital by the Lebanese group Cirque Du Liban, the aquatic show combines a thrilling mix of mind-bending illusions and astounding acrobatics. Expect to see awe-inspiring dancers, gravity-defying aerialists, and incredible circus thrills that will enthral the entire family.
Fontana by Cirque Du Liban, until end-Dec, 6pm to 9pm (the show starts at 7pm sharp), Fontana Circus, Al Mughrizat, Riyadh (next to Cenomi Al Nakheel Mall). Tickets start from SAR95 and can be purchased here. @fontanashow
Party it up at Beast House
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The countdown to a long weekend (for some) has officially begun… Get ready for a special showcase tonight (September 19) featuring New York house and techno connoisseur, Jean Pierre. Also on the lineup are two local favourites, with Jeme bringing his experimental electronic sound, and Spceboi setting the tone with his minimal and deep house sets.
Beast House, Sept 19, 9pm to 3am, Beast House, J12, JAX District, Riyadh 13732. The price starts from SAR185 per person and can be purchased here. @_beasthouse
Friday September 20
Celebrate SoMatcha’s third birthday with special treats
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If there’s one flavour that will never truly go out of style, then it’s got to be matcha. SoMatcha is a cute little business that specialises in – yes, you guessed it – matcha beverages. Whether you prefer hot or cold, the drinks here have a velvety mouthfeel and retain the astringency that most people seek in matcha lattes. The good news is SoMatcha turns three on September 20, and everyone is invited to its birthday party. For one day only, get a complimentary slice of cake with every order.
SoMatcha, various locations, including Shorofat Park, An Nada, Riyadh 13317 & 4707 Eastern Ring Branch Rd, Ar Rabwah, Riyadh 12824. @somatcha.me
PFL MENA returns with a third instalment
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Come and see the most dramatic night of MMA. As we enter the playoffs, only the top 16 are remaining. The playoffs will decide who makes it to the finals, for a chance of winning the Championship belt and pocketing a $100,000 cash. The playoffs will feature 10 fights, with Saudi’s top prospect Abdullah “The Reaper” Al-Qahtani headlining the card. The event will be live from Boulevard City, Riyadh at the PFL MENA studio and broadcasted on SSC, MBC Action and Shahid. All tickets include complimentary food and beverages, and are within eight rows of the cage.
PFL MENA Playoffs, Sept 20, 6.30pm, PFL MENA Studio, Boulevard City, Riyadh. Tickets are priced between SAR299 and SAR850, and they can be purchased here. @pflmena
Celebrate World Paella Day at The 365
Paella – a delicious, saffron-hued mélange of rice, vegetables and meat – is unquestionably Spain’s most widely recognised dish. In celebration of World Paella Day, enjoy a vibrant evening of Spanish flavours and vivacious ambience at The 365 in Fairmont Hotel Riyadh. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a live paella cooking station, featuring a delectable selection of Paella Valenciana, Paella Negra, and Paella Seafood. The evening will be complemented by an open selection of red and white sangria and a tempting array of tapas. Look out for the live entertainment as well.
Celebrate World Paella Day, Sept 20, 7pm to 11pm, The 365, Fairmont Hotel Riyadh. SAR320 per person. Tel: 011 826 2629. @fairmontriyadh
Sing your heart out at Syrup Lounge
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Love to sing? Smash out those cheesy karaoke favourites at Syrup Lounge’s Karaoke Night. Grab your friends and get ready for the sing-off of the year.
Karaoke Night, every Fri, 8pm to midnight, Syrup Lounge, Riyadh 13324. SAR65 per person and tickets can be purchased here. @syrupllc
Continue to dance the night away at Beast House
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Can’t get enough of Beast House? WTR, home for exquisite Organic House music, is taking over Beast House again with their ethereal blend of electronica, bringing in Satya’s label boss, Yokoo, with his eclectic sets to the stage. Joining him in setting the soundtrack of the night is none other than Zone+ serving us his signature melodic tunes.
Beast House, Sept 20, 9pm to 3am, Beast House, JAX District, Riyadh. The price starts from SAR250 per person and tickets can be purchased here. @_beasthouse
Saturday September 21
Arabic breakfast, anyone?
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One of our favourite places for Arabic breakfast is Tameesa, but get ready for a wait. Everyone comes to this restaurant because it’s cheap and amazing. The mugalgal beef and falafel pizza are two highlights from its menu. For the adventurous, try the fried liver with vegetables. The restaurant itself has a beautiful setting too, and the outdoor seating is not one to miss during the cooler weather.
Tameesa, King Abdul Aziz Branch Rd, Al Yasmin, Riyadh 13326, Sat to Thurs 4am to 4pm & Fri 12.30 to 4pm. Tel: 9200 23392. @tameesa_sa
Pick your National Day look with Marks & Spencer
Celebrate the 94th National Day in style with Marks & Spencer, which has carefully curated a stunning collection that embodies elegance and timeless fashion. Each piece seamlessly combines comfort with sophistication, so you can commemorate this special day with grace and standout style. The best part of all, you can indulge in exclusive offers at M&S from September 19 to 22. Enjoy buy-1-get-1 free on all sale items, 3-for-2 on thermals for the whole family, and grab the beauty and food hampers for just SAR94. Marks & Spencer has the perfect gifts to honour this special day with pride, including unique keepsakes that will become timeless wardrobe staples for years.
Marks & Spencer, various locations, including Panorama Mall & Granada Mall. Visit: www.marksandspencerme.com
A fun family day out on an adventure farm
If you’re looking for a family adventure away from the hustle and bustle of Riyadh, requires minimal effort in planning, and don’t mind a two-hour drive out of the city centre, then the Alshebah Resort is the place for you. Look forward to live animal encounters such as deers and emu, camel and horse rides, and a kid’s play area – this really is an action-packed day for all ages. There are also food stalls, a café and picnic areas – perfect for a day out with families and friends.
Alshebah Resort Hotah bin Tamim, Al Islamiah, Howtat Bani Tamim 16511, Saudi Arabia, Thurs & Fri 7am to 3am, Sat to Wed 7am to midnight. SAR30 for adults and SAR10 for kids.
Visit the Al Masmak Museum
Step back in time and explore Saudi Arabia’s roots in this restored building-turned-museum, also known as the Masmak Fort. Some of the fascinating exhibitions on display are maps and photographs of Saudi Arabia dating from 1912 to 1937, a range of historical artefacts and audio-visual presentations. Whilst you’re here, the area outside the fortress is also worth exploring – next to the fort is the Souq Al Zal. Selling traditional handicrafts, jewellery, spices and cashmere scarves, the market is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs representing the Kingdom’s rich cultural heritage.
Al Masmak Palace Museum, 6937 Al Thumairi St, 3153, Riyadh 12634 6937. Tel: 011 411 0091.
Sunday September 22
Gear up for the Kingdom Duathlon
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The Kingdom Duathlon – that’s run, bike, run, for the uninitiated – takes place during the Saudi National Day holidays on Sunday September 22 and Monday September 23, and it’s set to be a cracker. Choose between the 3-kilometre Saudi National Day Fun Run on Day 1 or the Singles Sprint Duathlon (5-kilometre run, 20-kilometre bike, 2.5-kilometre run) on Day 2 for an adrenaline-fuelled race. There are also the new Team Relay Sprint Duathlon (5-kilometre run, 20-kilometre bike, 2.5-kilometre run) category and a junior trail race for the young ones.
Kingdom Duathlon 2024, Sept 22 & 23, King Abdulaziz Equestrian Field. Register here. @racearabia
A last-minute beauty pick-me-up
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Self-care is the name of the game here at Tips & Toes, where experts specialise in all things beauty, from lash extensions and brow threading to luxury mani-pedis, nail extensions, acrylic, and gel. In celebration of Saudi National Day, check out its Beauty & Pride offer, in which every lady who signs up between now and September 30 will receive a SAR94 voucher to spend on any beauty service, with a minimum spend of SAR200.
Tips & Toes Riyadh, Amlak Wathiq for Real Estate, Building 222, Al Malqa, Riyadh 13522, daily 11am to 9pm. @tipsandtoes.ksa
Enjoy afternoon tea at The Globe
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Celebrate National Day in style at The Globe, one of Riyadh’s most iconic dining spots. From September 20 to 23, enjoy spectacular views from this stunning location, perched high above Riyadh, while tucking in an array of sweet and savoury treats.
Afternoon Tea at The Globe, Sept 20 to 23, 3pm to 6pm. @mo_alfaisaliah
Catch the National Day airshows
What is Saudi National Day without catching Saudi Arabia’s defence forces conducting unique air shows streaking across the skies? Head to Umm Ajlan Park for an ideal spot to watch the various Royal Saudi Air Force planes, including the Typhoon, F-15SA, Tornado, and F-15C aircraft.
National Day Airshows, Sept 22 & 23, 4.30pm, Umm Ajlan Park.
Monday September 23
Happy Saudi National Day
Here’s to the last of the 2024 public holidays in the Kingdom – the Saudi National Day. The holiday marks the unification of Najd and Hijaz, and September 23 marks the date on which the merged nations became the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Get ready to celebrate Saudi National Day, and look forward to a weekend of festivities and fireworks.
Indulge in a Saudi National Day brunch at La Brasserie
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Embark on a gastronomical journey at La Brasserie’s iconic brunch, which highlights the culinary traditions of the 13 regions of Saudi Arabia.
Saudi National Day Brunch, Sept 23, 1pm to 5pm, La Brasserie, Mandarin Oriental, Al Faisaliah. @mo_alfaisaliah
A fun trivia night at Black Tap
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Challenge yourself with Black Tap’s fun-filled Shake It Up Trivia. Test your knowledge of all things Saudi x Black Tap to win a free Saudi Cake Crazyshake. This year, the iconic Saudi Cake Crazyshake is bigger, better and packed with national pride. Get ready for a sugar overload.
Shake It Up Trivia, Sept 23, Black Tap, KAFD. @blacktapksa
Celebrate Saudi National Day at Via Riyadh
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If you still haven’t been, Via Riyadh is THE stylish destination in the Saudi Capital you need to know about. And in celebration of Saudi National Day, you can look forward to a variety of fun-filled programmes, such as henna corner and giveaways distribution from 5pm to midnight, and National Day musical performance from 6pm to 1am. There will also be a face painting corner for the little kids.