Updated November 2024
The winter holidays are approaching, and everyone is getting ready to jet off for vacation. This year, why not skip the long-haul flights – head to Saudi, the heart of Arabia, just a short flight away.
This winter, Saudi lights up with city-wide celebrations through Riyadh, Diriyah, and AlUla Seasons; with a mix of cultural exhibits and family-friendly adventures, inviting you to sample local and international flavors in new ways.
Riyadh Season
Kicking off in October in the capital, Riyadh Season runs until 15 March 2025, with celebrations across the capital.
The festival is grand in every sense – with classics from previous years and thrilling new additions, there is something for everyone.
This year’s Riyadh Season features 14 zones across the city. Riyadh Zoo, Suwaidi Park, and Souq Al Awaleen are free to explore — for the rest, you’ll need tickets, but booking is easy via the official Riyadh Season website.
Below, you’ll find all the zones and some of the coolest events.
Boulevard World
Go around the globe while never leaving Riyadh! Boulevard World has entertainment aplenty – from arts to sports and so much more. This year new destinations have been added to the mix. Tour Africa and have your own wildlife encounters, hit the slopes at Courchevel and enjoy the ski resort experience, complete with skiing lessons and après-ski dining, or explore Türkiye.
At Boulevard World, you can also enjoy activities like Laser Tag, or head to the “Tomb of the Pharaoh” escape room where you’ll have to find your way out of a spooky ancient Egyptian pyramid.
Ever wanted to be part of the boardgame? A life-sized Monopoly game is just the ticket. No longer just moving pieces on the board, you will now be part of the game – the stakes are higher, and if luck isn’t on your side, you could find yourself in a real jail. And if things go your way, you might snatch up Boardwalk and Park Place and rake in millions from your fellow players.
Boulevard City
Filled with one-of-a-kind experiences from around the globe, Boulevard City is hands down one of the highlights of the season.
If you’re into PUBG, get ready because every day, starting at 5PM for just 55SAR, the game literally comes to life, with lasers and battlefield scenery that will make you feel like you’re in Pochinki or Vikendi. For karting lovers, the much-anticipated Doos Karting – the first multi-level indoor electric go-karting track in Saudi, is a must! After racing here, other tracks just won’t compare.
That’s just the beginning: some of the season’s biggest showstoppers can be found here: including a live performance by the legendary Hans Zimmer, who will take fans on an emotional audio-visual journey from his most famous scores, from Interstellar to Dune.
A walk through Boulevard City makes you feel like it’s so much more than just an entertainment zone; with its lush gardens, a dazzling dancing fountain, and some of the finest cafes, everything here is truly a sight to behold.
BLVD Runway
This is a dream come true for aviation enthusiasts, with three full-sized Boeing 777 aircraft facing each other on an actual runway!
The planes have been transformed into restaurants where you can enjoy a meal onboard or from the ATC tower, captaining your own culinary journey.
Christian Dior: Designer of dreams
The “Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams” exhibition is perfect for fashion devotees. Coming to the Saudi National Museum, Al-Murabaa in Riyadh from November 21, 2024, to April 2, 2025, this impressive showcase will feature over 500 pieces of Dior’s haute couture, celebrating the brand’s legacy from its founding in 1947 to the present day. The exhibition will include iconic pieces from Dior’s archives, while exploring themes inspired by art, nature, and history.
Visitors can also enjoy a dedicated Dior souvenir shop and a unique Dior Café, providing an opportunity to relax and purchase memorabilia within the exhibition space.
Riyadh Zoo
Bigger and better, this year the zoo is packed with more excitement, a larger space, and a chance to get closer to nature with six immersive subzones where you’ll see all kinds of wildlife, including the rare red panda, making its first appearance in the Middle East. Entry is currently free, part of Riyadh Season’s initiatives to make wildlife more accessible.
Wonder Garden
The Wonder Garden is back, a whimsical garden-themed amusement park combining illuminated art, themed zones, and exotic wildlife to create a magical, family-friendly atmosphere.
You’ll step into three magical realms an enjoy encounters with flamingos by the lake, explore the Bloom Zone and its installations, and check out the Butterfly House, where over 1,000 butterflies colorful flowers and sculptures, and enter the Butterfly House, where over 1,000 butterflies from various species create a mesmerizing spectacle.
Souq Al Awaleen
For authentic Arabian shopping, head to Souq Al Awaleen. Traders across the Middle East furnish the market with everything from handmade crafts and traditional clothing to rare spices. It is the ideal spot to soak up local culture as you browse for some unique souvenirs.
Studio Tour
Ever dreamed of stepping onto the set of a blockbuster movie and seeing how those epic films are brought to life? Now’s your chance to do so at Al Hosn Studios during the Riyadh Season.
You’ll be taken behind the scenes of the entire filmmaking process, from script to screen; forever changing the way you view movies. The Studio Tour zone offers 24 different filmmaking crafts, and you will get to explore each one guided by professionals.
Al Suwaidi Park
Step into the shoes of people from different countries and get a taste of the vibrant lives they lead. Here, you can explore different cultures in one place – savoring authentic dishes to immersing yourself in musical and dance performances. The park also has bazaars with handicrafts, an Adventure Games area, and a Colours Oasis playground for the kids. While entry is free, visitors are encouraged to book tickets in advance via the Riyadh Season website for specific activities
The Groves
Now a permanent feature at Riyadh Season, this fan favourite is back with a high-end lifestyle experience in the Al Rafia district, with exciting dining options and unique spaces for relaxation.
Dunes of Arabica
One of the newest additions to this year’s Riyadh Season, Dunes of Arabica transports you straight to the heart of the Arabian desert.
With its curated, immersive desert adventures, this offers plenty of experiences including camel riding, dune buggies, sandboarding, archery, and traditional camping. It also integrates cultural elements, like Arabian music and local cuisine, providing a glimpse into desert traditions and landscapes.
Kingdom Arena
Saving the best for last, the Kingdom Arena stands as the crown jewel of Riyadh Season, hosting all the flagship events. Most of your significant moments and memories at Riyadh Season will likely be forged here during the many concerts and world championships hosted in the Kingdom Arena.
AlUla Festival and Events
AlUla is the perfect place for a spot of soul-searching – this place will infuse a sense of discovery and wellness to your trip.
This winter, it’s not just a recommendation – it’s an absolute must. With the desert landscape as your backdrop, AlUla invites you to participate in a lineup of curated events that run from 1 September 2024 to 23 February 2025.
After the high-energy buzz of Riyadh Season, AlUla is the perfect place to unwind and indulge in experiences you won’t find anywhere else. We’ve handpicked two standout events:
Ancient Kingdoms Festival
If you’re a history buff eager to dive into 7,000 years of Saudi’s past, this festival is an absolute must. Running from November 7th to 30th, this event exhibits ancient artifacts and pays tribute to the famed Incense Route.
Notable installments include the Incense Road Experience, a tour through the old town of AlUla, and the Ancient Kingdoms Parade. Start the day with a hot air balloon ride over Hegra at sunrise and cap it off with a mesmerizing drone show, creating memorable experiences rooted in the history and culture of the region.
Diriyah Season
Running from December 12th to March 2024 in the historic town of Diriyah, with At Turaif Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this season celebrates Saudi’s cultural heritage. You can check out handicraft exhibitions, traditional music performances, workshops, and go shopping in the souq – or explore the iconic mud-brick buildings and immerse yourself in Saudi culture.
The timeless wonders of Saudi
Now that you’ve experienced the winter specialties of Saudi no matter where you wrap up your adventure with the three festivals, there are two adjacent gems equally close to all of them that you won’t want to miss.
Jeddah
The coast city of Jeddah is where history and modernity blend together in an unforgettable manner. Begin your journey by exploring Al-Balad, Historic Jeddah, a neighbourhood that’s older than Saudi itself. Once the center of Jeddah’s trade and commerce, the ancient homes stand frozen in time with their unique wooden windows jutting out, reflecting exquisite craftsmanship. As you stroll through its narrow alleys, you are transported to a bygone era.
Just around the corner lies Bab Makkah, the gateway to the divine. This is more than just an entryway – it’s the symbolic threshold to a spiritual journey that billions dream of. Crossing through these gates transports you far beyond the history of Al-Balad, Historic Jeddah, to Makkah, the birthplace of Islam. Here, you stand on sacred ground, where performing Umrah becomes an open invitation for any Muslim.
Next up is Al-Rahmah Mosque. The mosque, built on stilts over the Saudi Red Sea, creating the illusion of floating, offers a nook of tranquility. Admire its astonishing architecture and intricate artwork, and let the divine energy wash over you.
Just a short walk away is the Jeddah Corniche, a lively waterfront perfect for breathtaking sea views and leisurely strolls. For a taste of contemporary luxury, check out the Mall of Arabia—one of the largest malls in Saudi, stretching as far as the eye can see. Its impressive architecture houses a world of global cuisine, offering a unique gastronomic journey right in the heart of Jeddah.
For something a little more immersive, the Fakieh Aquarium is a must-see for kids and adults alike. Dive deep into the wonders of marine life, walking through tunnels where sea creatures glide overhead or enjoy interactive shows that bring the ocean’s beauty to life.
As your journey wraps up, treat yourself to the ultimate luxury at the Saudi Red Sea. It’s the ideal way to relax and bid adieu to this magical place.
The Saudi Red Sea
Experience the slow-paced quietude of life, accompanied by the soothing melody of waves lapping at the shore. With many resorts offering private beaches and flawless service catering to your every need, you’re stepping into a world of personalised luxury.
Explore the Farasan Islands, where you’ll uncover remnants of ancient civilizations and miles upon miles of white-sand beaches. Diving enthusiasts should head to Umluj, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and marine wonders.
The Saudi Red Sea is where time seems to pause, creating an ambiance that encourages a deeper connection with nature and your inner self, all while embracing the breezy island lifestyle. Far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life, savour every moment with your family; it’s a place where turquoise water and sandy shores collide.
The enchantment of the Saudi Red Sea lingers in these memories, closing your Saudi adventure with a promise that you’ll return to uncover even more of this wondrous land.
