Your guide to this week's happenings: What to do, see and eat in Riyadh
Here’s what’s on our radar
Looking for something fun to do this week? Something eye-opening to watch tonight? Something delicious to eat tomorrow? Our guide to things to do this week is personally curated, ensuring there’s always a diverse range of events for you to choose from. Get stuck in.
Enjoy a Gatsby-themed afternoon tea
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Treat yourself to The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh’s newest festive afternoon tea, inspired by the opulence of The Great Gatsby. It is served at Chorisia Lounge, the beating heart of the hotel and a relaxing space in which to enjoy this Great British ritual in the company of family and friends. Tuck into a delicious selection of finger sandwiches, followed by a decadent array of scones and pastries. All of this is served alongside your choice of tea (or coffee) and, if you’re feeling extra fancy, a glass of mocktail. It’s equal parts elegance and glamour, with every bite dressed to impress right down to handpicked 1920s props to capture the moment.
Location: Chorisia Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh
Timings: Daily noon to 6pm
Cost: SAR150 per person
Contact: 011 802 8333 / @theritzcarltonruh
Don’t miss the World of Dates Exhibition
Love dates? Come and discover the world of dates at this free outdoor event. You can take part in a tasting experience of items made with Saudi dates, make traditional crafts inspired by palm trees and dates that highlight local heritage, and explore the journey of palm trees and dates from the past to the present at the Museum Zone. There are also workshops and a live cooking stage featuring local and international chefs, an interactive kids’ zone complete with mascots and fun activities, daily folkloric shows celebrating authentic Saudi heritage, and so much more.
Location: Date World Exhibition 2025, King Saud University Campus, Riyadh
Timings: Until Dec 4, 4pm to 11pm
Cost: Free, but you need to book your tickets here.
A morning of movement, community and manifestation
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Meet like-minded people and make new friends as podcast and community group Saudi Life: Unpacked host a wellness morning in collaboration with Kayanee in Riyadh. Start off with an invigorating light hike around the beautiful Diplomatic Quarter, followed by breathwork and manifestation session, and nourishing bites paired with Kayanee smoothies. Expect good vibes, community connection, and a morning that feels grounding, expansive, and delightfully playful.
Location: Kayanee, 1364 Complex, Diplomatic Quarter
Timings: Dec 3, 9.30am to 12.30pm
Cost: SAR140. Book your spot here.
A festival of light and art like no other
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Noor Riyadh 2025 returns bigger and brighter than ever this year, living up to its title of the largest light art festival in the world. Artworks are displayed across the city in six locations: Qasr Al-Hokm district, King Abdulaziz Historical Centre, stc Metro Station, King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Station, Public Investment Fund Tower, and JAX District. Held under the theme In the Blink of an Eye, the theme explores how light interacts with the city, its people, and time – creating an unforgettable experience. The event is part of Riyadh Art, one of the four major projects under the mandate of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City that aim to turn the capital into “a gallery without walls.”
Play a round of indoor golf
Welcome to The Virtual Greens. Boasting the title of being Riyadh’s first automated indoor golf simulator lounge, it’s the perfect spot to swing, compete, and have fun. The Virtual Greens offers six brilliant game modes – Slope Golf, Wild Wild West, Block Golf, Whack A Mole, Pro Bowl Showdown, and our favourite, Darts Golf. It’s easy to spend a whole afternoon or two here, especially when you don’t need to leave for a bite to eat – just order food and drinks straight from your bay before teeing off.
Location: The Virtual Greens, The Boulevard Riyadh, Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Rd, Hittin, Riyadh 13513
Timings: Daily 10am to 10pm
Contact: 053 830 9749 | thevirtualgreens.com
Cost: Prices are per hour, per bay, and starts from SAR199. Book here.
