Welcome to 2022. Not only is it the start of a new month, but a whole new year. If you’re looking for ways to make the month count, here’s our list of the best things to do in Riyadh. Whether you’re after your perfect cup of coffee or sustainable ways to start the new year, we have got you covered.
% Arabica
All the way from Kyoto and after already opening in nearly the entire GCC, % Arabica has a new branch in Riyadh’s The Zone. The interior is all sleek and minimalist with white walls and mirrored ceilings. There were crowds forming on the opening day, so head to the café to find out what all the fuss is about and try the Japanese brand’s much-loved coffee.
O Open daily 4pm-2am. The Zone, Al Mohammadiyyah, instagram.com/arabica.saudiarabia
Billionaire Riyadh
Luxury restaurant brand Billionaire, founded by Formula 1 legend Flavio Briatore, is famous for its signature entertainment, which it is now bringing to the capital. It recently hosted the world-famous DJ David Guetta, and it’s now welcoming other unmissable singers and dancers.
Open daily 6pm-1am. Dabab Street, Sulaimaniya billionairesociety.com.
BLVD Skate Park
The very first skate park has opened in Riyadh and is already a hub for cool activities. Whether you want to try skateboarding, BMX bikes or scooters, experts are on hand to help. The creators hope to build a skating community and attract local artists and designers, and, of course, wannabe as well as experienced skaters.
Hittin, instagram.com/saudiskateparks
Desert Thrifting
Want to do your bit for the environment? Well, at newly opened Desert Thrifting you can buy pre-loved items at an affordable price. Currently operating online, it is securing a location for its physical store that opens on January 2.
instagram.com/desertthrifting.sa
Formula E
If you enjoyed the thrill of Formula 1, you’ll be pleased to hear that ABB FIA Formula E World Championship will soon screech into town. Using electric cars, it is has net-zero carbon emissions and brings the old with the new, as it takes place in the historical Diriyah.
British racer Sam Bird has won the tournament twice, and is competing once again in 2022.
January 28-29. diriyah-eprix.com
Four Seasons, Riyadh
The hotel, found in the iconic Kingdom Tower, has just introduced a new range of royal suites. Book in for a truly regal affair and make your next staycation one to remember.
Center Point, 2239 King Fahd Rd, Al Olaya, fourseasons.com/riyadh (011 211 5888).
Nusr-Et Steakhouse
Nusret Gökçe, better known as Salt Bae, has rocked up in Riyadh. He is sprinkling his signature salt and magic over the dining scene with the opening of Nusr-Et Steakhouse. With restaurants around the world and more than 39 million Instagram followers, the fancy restaurant is famous for its mouth-watering eats and eye-watering prices.
Prince Turki Ibn Abdulaziz Al Awwal Rd, U Walk, nusr-et.com.tr (011 494 5120).
Riyadh Oasis
Riyadh Season is the festival that keeps on giving. Give your winter nights an upgrade
and check out the new zone, Riyadh Oasis. Catch ace concerts from local artists and fine
dining from Novikov. Make the most of the cooler weather, as the zone is slap bang in
the middle of the desert and offers golf and horse riding experiences. You ready for some serious entertainment?
Until February 28. Open daily 3pm-3am. instagram.com/oasiszonesa
Saudi Design Week
Celebrate local artists at Saudi Design Festival, which is created by the same group behind Saudi Design Week. The festival brings together shopping experiences with cool concept stores and local fashion designers, as well as exhibitions and food trucks.
January 9-29. instagram.com/saudidesignfestival
Wadi Cinema
Grab the popcorn, there’s a new cinema in town. The pop-up Wadi Cinema will be swapping hero flicks for arthouse films while showcasing indie filmmakers from the region.
Until March 11. Jax District. instagram.com/wadicinema
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