12 amazing things to do in Riyadh this weekend: January 23 to 25
Your ultimate weekend guide…
Looking for an exciting weekend escape from the dull, mundane routine of everyday life? You’re in luck. Riyadh is buzzing with events and activities that let you unwind, explore, and have fun. From popular attractions to seasonal activities, we’ve got everything you need. These are the best things to do in Riyadh this weekend: January 23 to 25.
Thursday January 23
Swifties’ Night is back
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After a mini break, Swifties’ Night has returned, and with a bang no less. Come join the gang at Level Up and celebrate Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. Dress up in your favourite era, and enjoy karaoke, giveaways, and more.
Swifties Night in Riyadh, Level Up, 8pm. Tickets are for SAR75 here @swifties_night
There’s a new exhibition in town
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The “Hokusai Manga” exhibition is being held in the capital over the weekend, showcasing the works of the famous Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai. The exhibition highlights the history and development of manga, and offers a unique perspective on how Hokusai’s classic illustrations have influenced modern visual arts. With over 4,000 sketches spread across 15 volumes, the collection depicts diverse aspects of everyday life, landscapes, and exotic creatures, marking a new era in Japanese illustration art. Don’t miss the chance to explore this unique exhibition and learn about Hokusai’s artistic legacy.
Hokusai Manga Manga, Saudi Museum of Contemporary Art, Jax District, until Sat Feb 8. Get your tickets here.
Check out the first Drone World Cup Race
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Happening from Thursday January 23 to Saturday Janaury 25, the Drone World Cup Race in Riyadh will bring excitement to the city, and we can’t wait to see it unfold. The event will feature 140 elite pilots who will go head-to-head in an electrifying battle to claim the championship title and compete for incredible cash prizes exceeding SAR1,000,000.
Drone World Cup Race, Boulevard Riyadh City, Jan 23 to Jan 25. Tickets will soon be available here.
Last day to check out the Korean Film Festival
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We’re welcoming the Korean Film Week in Riyadh as part of one of them. The event will unfold at the newly opened Cinehouse Riyadh and offer a unique cinematic experience, showcasing the richness of Korean culture and enhancing cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and Korea. Movie screenings to catch include Parasite, Cobweb, Concrete Utopia, The Moon, I, and The Executioner
Korean Film Week in Riyadh, Cinehouse Riyadh, 7773 Oubay Ibn Mouaz Al Ansari, Ar Rabi. @cinehousecinema
Party it up at Beast House
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If you’re wondering about a rave in Riyadh this weekend, then Beast House might just have what you’re looking for. This Thursday night, catch Nageeb, Adam Clinkard, and Neshow as they bring their incredible beats to us.
Beast House, every Thurs & Fri, 9pm to 3am, Beast House, JAX District, Riyadh. Tickets start from SAR149 and can be purchased here. @_beasthouse
Friday January 24
Brunching the right way…the Movenpick way…
Sometimes, brunch simply deserves a little more ceremony than your go-to mid-morning carb-load (nourishing as that is). Enter Mazaj Restaurant, set within Mövenpick Hotel Riyadh. The all-day dining restaurant is premiering an all-new Friday Brunch on January 24, featuring a lavish spread of local and international dishes. Taking place from 1pm to 4pm, the brunch invites guests to step into a tropical paradise with delightful décor and lush poolside greenery – a magnificent way to while away an afternoon.
Ultimate Brunch at Mazaj Restaurant, every Fri, 1pm to 4pm, Second Floor, Mövenpick Hotel Riyadh, 3478 North Ring Road Exit 4, Al Ghadeer District, Riyadh 13311. SAR335 per adult. Tel: 011 213 9880 / 058 027 6379. @movenpickriyadh
Catch Hans Zimmer live
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Happening on Friday January 24, the mega performance will be taking place at the Mohammed Abdo Arena in the fan-favourite Riyadh Season zone, Boulevard Riyadh City. When it comes to scoring blockbusters, few Hollywood composers come close to the likes of Hans Zimmer. He is the genius behind the stirring music of Gladiator, The Dark Knight, Top Gun: Maverick, The Lion King, Pirates of the Caribbean, Interstellar, Dune, and more.
Hans Zimmer live in Riyadh, Mohammed Abdo Arena, Boulevard Riyadh City, 9pm. Book your tickets starting at SAR100 here.
Get a workout in
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Escape the hustle and bustle of the capital and find a place of calm at Reform. This studio offers a quick Lagree workout that combines heart-pumping cardio with muscle-strengthening exercises. Using the latest Megaformer machines, no two workouts are the same, keeping your fitness routine exciting and effective. It’s the perfect place for anyone looking to challenge themselves and have fun at the same time.
Pricing: Single class starts from SAR375. Book your spot via the Reform app.
Reform, King Abdulaziz Rd, King Salman Neighbourhood, Riyadh 12432, Sat to Thurs 10am to 9pm. Tel: 056 644 5053 / 011 208 5313. @reformsa
Saturday, January 25
Treat yourself at the newly relaunched Fairmont Spa
Fairmont Spa has teamed up with Thalion, a leader in marine-inspired wellness, and its suite of bespoke therapies is worth it… and so are you. The treatments are top-notch, and we highly recommend the Revitalising Massage, which delivers deep muscular relief through soothing techniques, or the Ocean Bliss Massage, which blends gentle exfoliation and hypnotic slow strokes to create an immersive sensory journey. You’ll leave with a sense of lightness.
Fairmont Spa, Fairmont Riyadh, Airport Road, Qurtubah Area, Business Gate, Riyadh 11552. Tel: 011 826 2626. @fairmontriyadh
Witness the Ardah performance in Diriyah
The Ardah performance is traditionally a type of folkloric group dance that offers the visitors a unique engagement experience that features spoken poems, warriors’ attire, and how it is rooted in Diriyah’s past, present, and future. The experience will be happening every weekend on Fridays and Saturdays until Monday March 31.
Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh turns one
Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh is marking its first anniversary with a host of culinary events and celebratory menu items. From origami-inspired pastry prepared with yuzu, pistachio, and matcha at The Mandarin Lounge to a luxurious set menu for two at The Globe, featuring Grilled Lobster Tail, a refreshing Winter Salad, a variety of exquisite main courses, and a sweet finale with Crisp Mille-Feuille, there’s something special for everyone. Plus, don’t miss the anniversary dinner at L~ARIA. At the helm of the restaurant pop-up is Chef Massimiliano Blasone, who takes a fresh approach to gastronomy by offering Italian dishes with Japanese influences. On the occasion of Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh’s first anniversary, he has designed a celebratory set menu from January 16 to 18 using the finest seasonal ingredients.
Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh, King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12212. Origami Delights at The Mandarin Lounge is available until Jan 31 and priced at SAR101. The Winter Sharing Menu at The Globe is priced at SAR800 for two. @mo_alfaisaliah
Connect with the outdoors in comfort and style
A popular camping ground in Riyadh, Polaris North has now become an official winter space where you can relax and enjoy time with friends. Take your pick between outdoor and indoor seating areas and get away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Enjoy scenic views as you explore the beautiful atmosphere from the comfort of the indoors or get up close with nature outdoors too. For the most traditional experience, you can even opt for a Bedouin tent.
Polaris North In Riyadh, Polaris North, only weekends, Thu 4pm to 2am & Fri 2pm to 2am & Sat 4pm to 11pm. Get your tickets starting at SAR50 here.