Welcome to Riyadh, a capital for entertainment and culture. Whether you’re looking to dine like a celebrity, sing your heart out or find your new favourite book, you’ll find great deals and greater things to do in Riyadh. So if you’re stuck for ideas for the best things to do this weekend in Riyadh– we’ve got you covered.
Friday October 1
Bag a bargain at Street 9
At Street 9, one of Riyadh’s most popular marketplaces, you’ll feel like you travelled back in time, not just because of the traditional décor but also because of the prices – this weekend, you can enjoy 2 for 1 on tickets. Inside you can eat unlimited food at the buffet, which serves everything from steak to sweets. Watch dance shows, play games and get your face painted. It’s a pretty quirky venue, as it has umbrellas and board games hanging from the ceiling. Totally one of the best things to do this weekend in Riyadh.
Open daily 6.30am-2am. www.instagram.com/street9_sa (056 960 0002).
Catch a stage production of Treasure Island at PNU
Swaggering pirates, a chattering parrot and a mystical tale – it’s a pirate’s life for you. Grab your mates and head to Princess Nourah University to catch the theatrical production of Treasure Island. The show is bought to life with acrobatic dance performances and takes you on a journey through the sea world in search of treasure. This family-friendly production is part of Riyadh’s International Book Fair events, aiming to provide you and your loved ones with experiences rich in culture and entertainment.
From SAR200 (per person). Oct 1-4 8pm. Blue Venue, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, tickets.riyadhbookfair.org.sa.
Soak up the sounds of Piano Night at the French embassy
French classical pianist Maxime Zecchini, known for his left-hand repertoire, is coming to Riyadh. If you’re a fan of classical music, you should definitely add his free piano concert to the list to do this weekend. Take your seat, relax, and enjoy every note. One of the best things to do this weekend in Riyadh, and one of the most relaxing, too.
Free (booking essential). Fri 7.30pm. French Embassy, Cultural Palace, Diplomatic Quarter, instagram.com/franceinksa.
Speed up at Doos Karting
Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines. Doos Karting is the perfect place for you to show off your driving skills, compete with family and friends, and enjoy an unusual adrenaline-filled experience. In this 350m indoor track with multi-level spiral ramps, you will truly feel like you’re on a real race car video game. Look out for special weekend offers.
SAR91 (per person) Thu-Sat 4pm-7.30pm. Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz Road, dooskarting.com (920 008 311).
Visit Riyadh International Book Fair
Fancy a good read? Riyadh’s International Book Fair has got your back. This annually held fair offers you every book on your reading list and so much more. Not only does it feed your passion for reading, but it will give you the latest information on literature and you can join conferences, workshops, seminars and lectures.
Free (booking required). Oct 1-10. Riyadh Front for Businesses, riyadhbookfair.org.sa.
Sing your heart out at Syrup Lounge’s karaoke night
Feel like a superstar for one night and join Syrup Lounge’s karaoke night. Don’t worry if you’re an amateur, as there’s a supportive environment at this entertainment venue. Expect pop hits and Arabic classics being sung by locals and expats.
From SAR50. Open Fri 9pm-midnight. 9038 Prince Faisal Bin Bandar Bin Abdul Aziz Road, syrup.sa (011 228 8006).
Take aim at Archery Range’s ladies’ night
Calling all women: get your Legolas on and head to the Archery Range. This week it has a ladies night, meaning you can shoot and score without any testosterone watching. Don’t worry if you’ve never lifted a bow and arrow before, helpers are on hand.
Open Fri 5.30pm. Mohammed, Al Faisaliyah, Riyadh 13712, instagram.com/archery_range (055 880 8617).
Saturday October 2
Watch the new James Bond film No Time to Die
The long-awaited sequel to James Bond is finally out. Watch Daniel Craig’s final portrayal as the secret again before he hangs up his tux. Our verdict? It’s the best Bond film since Casino Royale. A movie event like this demands attention, so go to the newly opened VOX Cinemas at The Esplanade and book a gold screening where you can recline in comfy seats and enjoy the gourmet menu. Absolutely one of the best things to do this weekend in Riyadh.
From SAR 110 (per person). Various locations including near King Saud University, ksa.voxcinemas.com.
Weekend lunch at Billionaire
Dine like a celebrity at Riyadh’s luxury dining destination from Flavio Briatore. The menu serves Italian and Asian food with a twist, and has a nod to Saudi culture. A remarkable weekend lunch curated by Billionaire celebrity chef, Batuhan Piatti Zeynioglu, awaits you. Due to popular demands, Billionaire now allows children of all ages to enter this premium destination – but only during its weekend lunch. One of the fanciest and best things to do this weekend in Riyadh.
From SAR140 (per person). Fri-Sat 1pm-5pm. Dabab Street, As Sulaimaniya, billionairesociety.com (920011916).
Go on an animal adventure at Nofa Wildlife Safari
Take a walk on the wild side at Nofa Wildlife Safari, a one-of-its-kind safari experience in Riyadh. The safari program gives you the chance to spot lions, tigers, giraffes, elephants, cats and so many more wild animals. Trust us, your children (or inner child) will thank you for having this safari adventure on your list of things to do in Riyadh.
SAR150 (per person). Sat-Thu 8am-3.30pm. New Mecca Rd, Radisson Collection Resort, nofaresorts.com (059 325 5918).
Spend the day at U Walk
Walk this way – U Walk, the popular shopping destination, is popular with families on the weekend. The long stretch of restaurants, ice cream parlours, cafes, from The Art Café to Joes Café, and a Muvi Cinema, make it a great spot to hang out. Plus, the weather is well and truly on its way to perfect, so grab a bite and enjoy the great outdoors. One of the best things to do this weekend in Riyadh.
Open Sat-Thu 9am-11.30pm, Fri 1pm-11.30pm. instagram.com/uwalkruh (920 000 262).
