12 brilliant things to do in Riyadh this weekend: April 17 to 19
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. 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 of 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 12 brilliant things to do in Riyadh this weekend.
Thursday April 17
Dine here for your next business lunch
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For your next power lunch, head to SushiSamba with its new Hayai Business Lunch. Enjoy a curated set menu blending Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavours – the perfect setting for business meetings or a midday break. For just SAR150, it features a choice of two starters and one main.
Hayai Business Lunch, Sun to Thurs, 12.30pm to 4.30pm, SushiSamba, KAFD. Tel: 011 269 5347. @sushisamba.riyadh
Reset your mind, body, and soul
Keen to experience a transformative journey of healing and self-discovery? Sign up for the IMD Breathwork, a life-changing experience founded by Brendon Hansford, with exclusive pop-up classes taking place at Azaya Wellness on Thursday April 17 and Friday April 18. For those who are unfamiliar with IMD Breathwork, it blends ancient breathing techniques with modern sound healing to help release stress and overcome anxiety, leaving participants feeling lighter, calmer, and fully in control. During each class, Brendon will teach guests how to unlock their conscious connected breath before they put on blindfolds and headphones and are guided on a journey that combines meditation, breathwork, and music to unlock deep emotional healing.
IMD Breathwork Exclusive Pop-Up Classes, Apr 17, 7pm to 9pm & Apr 18, noon to 2pm & 4pm to 6pm, Azaya Wellness, Riyadh 12712. SAR299 person. Book your spot here. @imdbreathwork
Dance the night away at Beast House
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Party people, where are you at? On Thursday (April 17) at Beast House, dive into the world of Afro-house with DJ/producer Kitty Amor and explore the eclectic sounds of local hero Dul.
Beast House, every Thurs & Fri, 9pm to 3am, Beast House, JAX District, Riyadh. Tickets start from SAR199 and can be purchased here. @_beasthouse
Catch Claptone live at UNSTABLE
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Riyadh’s premier nightlife experience, UNSTABLE, returns with an unmissable performance by legendary Claptone and local heroes Dish Dash. Expect global heat, local energy — all in one electrifying night.
UNSTABLE presents Claptone, Apr 17, 10pm to 3am, UNSTABLE Diplomatic Quarters. SAR525 per person (ladies get free entry before 11 PM). An UNSTABLE visa is required to enter and you can apply it here.
Friday April 18
Celebrate spring at The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh
Celebrate spring with a feast and fun-filled afternoon at Al Orjouan. While adults indulge in the lavish buffet spread, kids can enjoy a day of excitement with an egg hunt, cookie decorating, egg dyeing and decorating, and face painting.
Spring Time Chef’s Brunch, Apr 18, 12.30pm to 5pm, The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh. SAR375 per adult & SAR225 for children aged six to 12. Tel: 011 802 8333. @theritzcarltonruh
Brunching at La Brasserie
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Fridays are the perfect excuse to gather with loved ones over a great meal. Planning to mark spring with a special meal? You’re in luck. Bring an appetite and feast on La Brasserie’s handcrafted dishes and fresh picks of the season.
Spring Brunch, Apr 18, 1pm to 5pm, La Brasserie, Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Riyadh. SAR397 per person. Tel: 011 273 2005. @mo_alfaisaliah
Enjoy an adventurous weekend hike
Get ready for a different adventure and vibes with a desert hike experience at the Edge of the World. Start your adventure with a short drive from the city, transitioning to the golden sands and unique rock formations. Plus, the trail is suitable for all fitness levels, offering stunning views. By the end, you’ll feel refreshed and inspired by the natural beauty just outside Riyadh.
Desert Adventure, Apr 18, 4pm to 9pm, Meeting point: Al-Thagher Plaza – Inside AlRammah store. SAR230 per person. Book your spot here. @clubhikemania
Keep the party going at Beast House
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Keep the vibes going at Beast House this weekend. On Friday April 18, Beast House brings you a stellar lineup with Brazilian organic house savant AntDot and his deep signature sounds, Jeme house grooves, and BassLaw funky electronic beats. Let’s dance the night away.
Beast House, every Thurs & Fri, 9pm to 3am, Beast House, JAX District, Riyadh. Tickets start from SAR199 and can be purchased here. @_beasthouse
Saturday April 19
Indulge in an egg-ceptional celebration at Wildfire
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Celebrate the Saudi heritage
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A series of special events are taking place this weekend at Laysen Valley in celebration of World Heritage Day on April 18. Be greeted with an immersive experience that transports you to the Kingdom’s eight World Heritage Sites and showcases their cultural significance through storytelling, a digital light show and live recreations of the locations. Other attractions include a dedicated children’s area, and pavilions showcasing traditional arts and crafts. There are also workshops, live demonstrations by artisans, and marketplaces where craftspeople will be selling handmade items.
World Heritage Day 2025, until Apr 21, 4pm to 11pm, Laysen Valley. Free entry but you can book your tickets here. @heritage_moc
Art Week Riyadh has been extended
The first edition of Art Week Riyadh has been extended till May. It’s filled with exhibitions, talks and cultural activations transforming the capital for a citywide celebration of Saudi’s vibrant art scene — and it’s all free. Whether you’re an art aficionado or here to learn, there’s something for everyone. At JAX District, visitors can immerse themselves in curated art exhibitions at the flagship exhibition, At The Edge, step inside the studios of leading and emerging Saudi artists, visit the exhibition, Collections in Dialogue, to discover rare works from important Saudi collections, take part in interactive workshops for all ages, and attend thought-provoking talks about the art world that inform and inspire.
Art Week Riyadh 2025, until May 29, 4pm to 11pm (except on Thurs, Fri & Sat 4pm to midnight), various locations, including JAX District. Free entry, but you’re required to book your visit here.
Check out the refreshed LPM
Our favourite French Mediterranean restaurant welcomes guests back with a refreshed look and an even more inviting atmosphere. Step inside La Petite Maison Riyadh and you’ll find a stunning mural by internationally acclaimed artist Sanja Kovačević, which infuses the space with the vibrant spirit of the Côte d’Azur. The bar counter now features a striking new burgundy tone, creating a warm, refined ambiance for an evening à la française. Meanwhile, the lounge area has new banquettes that offer guests a cosier, more intimate experience, perfect for relaxation or meaningful conversations. In addition to its refreshed interiors, the restaurant is introducing a selection of new dishes, such as tender white asparagus paired with aged parmesan, grilled Maine lobster with a velvety, subtly spiced rouille sauce, and slow-cooked seabass in a rich tomato and pepper sauce.
La Petite Maison Riyadh, Al Motassem Street, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12212, Tel: 9200 11794. @lpmriyadh