10 brilliant things to do in Riyadh this weekend: March 13 to 15
Keep your plans exciting and your Instagram feeds glowing…
Looking for an exciting weekend escape from the dull, mundane routine of everyday life? You’re in luck. Even with the Holy Month of Ramadan in full swing, Riyadh is buzzing with events and activities that let you unwind, explore, and have fun. From popular attractions to seasonal activities and hidden gems, there’s something for everyone for all ages. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to chill with friends or family, our weekend guide has got you covered.
Here are ten brilliant things to do in Riyadh this weekend.
Thursday March 13
Explore Sports Boulevard on a bike
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Looking to get a little exercise outdoors while exploring Riyadh? Now, it’s easier than ever with the launch of the first phase of Sports Boulevard. Simply head to the Sports Promenade; it’s perfect for a leisurely cycle through the park.
Promenade, Sports Boulevard, Prince Mohammed Ibn Salman Ibn Abdulaziz Rd, Hittin, Riyadh 13518. @sportsblvdsa
Savour Iftar beneath a glittering Ramadan tent
End your fast with friends and family under an elegant gold and white tent in The Garden at Radisson Blu Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center. Guests can enjoy a buffet-style meal featuring delicacies such as sushi, gourmet cheeses, and vibrant continental salads. Then, dive into over ten live stations where sizzling mix grills and perfectly spiced shawarma meet wood-fired pizzas, creamy pastas, and regional favourites. For the little ones, the kids’ station offers all their beloved treats, while the dessert station promises a sweet ending with seven decadent varieties, from the rich, fragrant Umm Ali and gooey Knafa to a dreamy chocolate fountain.
The Garden, Radisson Blu Riyadh Convention & Exhibition Center. Iftar is priced at SAR380 per person, while Suhoor is SAR270 per person. Tel: 011 215 4444. @radissonbluriyadhconvention
Go on a shopping spree at Ghabga
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Get a dose of retail therapy at the Ghabga event and pick up some stylish abayas and kaftans starting from SAR150 or shop for sparkly additions to your wardrobe at the various jewellery stalls. You’ll also find accessories such as sunglasses, a collection of fragrances, sportswear, and plenty of coffee trucks lined up outside The Arena.
Ghabga, until March 15, 8.30pm to 2.30am, The Arena, Gharnatah Imam Abdullah Bin Saud Bin Abdulaziz Road, Ghirnatah, Riyadh 13241. SAR95 per person, and tickets can be purchased here. @ghabga_event
Friday March 14
Sensory play for the little ones
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Need to entertain the kids this weekend? Check out the Gargarain’s Family Fun Day by Play Makes Sense on Friday March 14 – the perfect opportunity for families to come together and create memorable moments while celebrating with sensory play and endless fun. With activities for kids aged one to ten years, including arts and crafts, storytelling, face painting, balloon art, and, of course, sensory play, this event promises a day of nonstop fun with your loved ones. For an additional SAR25, your child can also participate in cookie decorating.
Gargarain’s Family Fun Day, March 14, 10am to 2pm, Play Makes Sense, 7260 King Abdulaziz Rd, Ar Rabi, Riyadh 13315. Tel: 055 013 1365. Book your spot here. SAR115 per child. @playmakessense.sa
Check out Foodsphere
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Step inside FoodSphere, an immersive hub in Riyadh that reimagines the future of food, sustainability and biodiversity. Featuring three indoor zones, the experience begins in the Oasis, where visitors can explore the deep-rooted coffee culture and the significance of dates in Saudi Arabia. Over at the Apiary is a striking installation of a live beehive exhibit where you can learn more about honey. The final zone takes you inside the Biosphere, which houses a butterfly pavilion, where you can walk among live, flittering butterflies and see those creatures shimmer. Entry to FoodSphere is free, but you’re required to register your visit here. However, an entry fee is required for the Biosphere zone. It is priced at SAR75 per adult and SAR35 per child between two and 16. Tickets for the Biosphere can be purchased here.
Riyadh Oases: FoodSphere, 6871 Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz (Tahlia Street), Riyadh 12242, Ramadan hours 8.30pm to 2.30am. Non-Ramadan hours: Sat to Thurs 9am to 11pm & Fri 4pm to 11pm. @riyadhoases
Master the art of Arabic calligraphy
Always wanted to learn Arabic calligraphy? Begin your journey with this workshop, as you’ll be introduced to all the letters and how they should be written with their correct proportions and scales.
Arabic Calligraphy Workshop, March 14, 10pm to midnight, Level Up. SAR65 per person and you can book your spot here. @lvlupsocialhub
Ramadan activation at Maison Assouline Riyadh
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We love Assouline’s flagship boutique and restaurant in Riyadh. Nestled in Diriyah’s Bujairi Terrace, Maison Assouline Riyadh will host an exclusive activation happening from Thursday March 13 to Thursday March 20. Look out for the beautifully designed cart outside the boutique, offering guests complimentary Saudi coffee and dates while showcasing a curated selection of Assouline’s exquisite books. This elegant experience invites visitors to immerse themselves in culture and refinement. And while you’re there, why not reserve your Ramadan dining experience at the restaurant?
Exclusive activation at Maison Assouline Riyadh, Bujairi Terrace, March 13 to 20, 10pm to 1am. @maisonassoulineriyadh
Saturday March 15
A magical desert adventure for the little ones
This Ramadan, let your child embark on a magical desert adventure. Organised by Dunes and Dates Desert Camp, the Little Dune Explorers program offers a variety of exciting activities: a thrilling treasure hunt, engaging games, and creative workshop stations – from painting to moulding clay and building sandcastles – where little ones can unleash their creativity.
Little Dune Explorers, March 15, 1pm to 7pm. SAR150 per child and bookings can be made here. Exact location will be given upon booking confirmation. @dunesanddates
Say ‘Yes’ to the dress of your dreams
For many brides, a wedding gown is more than just a dress she gets married in. It is the embodiment of her dreams and individuality and the traditions she holds close to her heart, an outfit that captures her very essence on one of the most important days of her life. Good news: Esposa takes the bridal scene in Riyadh to new heights, offering a wide selection of wedding dresses for women, as well as a curated collection of evening wear. It’s full of exceptional designer gowns available for both purchase and rental, combining the latest trends and timeless looks in couture, so you can look fresh off the runway on your big day.
Esposa Riyadh, daily 2pm to 11pm, King Abdul Aziz Rd, Ar Rabi, Riyadh 6409. Tel: 011 217 1713 / 055 739 0499. Book your appointment here. @esposagroup
Check out ‘Stories in the Making’ art exhibition
Immerse yourself in a world of art in this group exhibition through a collection of artworks and installations by 35 artists. ‘Stories in the Making’ aims to promote artistic excellence by providing diverse opportunities for artists while expanding access for audiences to appreciate the impact of the arts in enriching lives.
Stories in the Making, March 15 to 31, Sat to Thurs 9pm to 1am, Ahlam Gallery, Olaya St, Al Mousa Centre, Gate 1, First Floor, Riyadh 12221. Free admission. @ahlamgallery.sa