Enter Riyadh Season 2023, a vibrant world of diverse experiences, festivities, and cultural wonders. With a dynamic blend of entertainment and innovation, this season brings thrilling events, one-of-a-kind activities, captivating performances, culinary delights, and cultural showcases that promises to elevate the meaning of “Big Time”!
Thousands had flocked to the Kingdom Arena on October 28, 2023 to witness the commencement of one of the biggest and longest celebrations in Saudi Arabia — the Riyadh Season 2023! Attendees were treated to a grand display of lights, music, and performances, setting the tone for the upcoming festivities. The main event of the night was the “Battle of the Baddest” where Tyson Fury emerged victorious against Francis Ngannou.
If the opening day already brought so much excitement, what more the following weeks which will unravel the different zones? Have a glimpse of what this edition will offer; here’s a guide to this year’s Riyadh Season.
BLVD CITY
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/WD5x8fNebbHG7nan7
Boasting of numerous events and holding the distinction of being the largest environmentally sustainable entertainment hub of the season, the returning Boulevard Riyadh City situated in the northern part of Riyadh, is a destination you shouldn’t miss with its lush gardens, dancing fountain, shops, and the largest cinema in the Kingdom.
BLVD City features a variety of dining establishments where you can enjoy a meal after exploring the entire area. Frankie and Public specialize in Italian cuisine, while Karamna, Beirut Khanum, Grand Café, and Alnakheel offer Lebanese food. Additional dining options include Layali Adan for Yemeni cuisine, Petit Café for Arabic fare, and Kabana for Afghani dishes.
This zone provides different experiences suitable for all age groups. Here are a few options you can explore:
World of Barbie
Immerse yourself in the world of Barbie in this dedicated zone, where everything is centered on the iconic doll. Experience a magical journey filled with adventures, games, and interactive activities that capture the essence of Barbie.
Starting from October 29
Daily from 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
From 45 SAR
Blippi
If you’re a parent, chances are you’re familiar with Blippi. Treat your kids to a distinctive and enjoyable journey with Blippi as they travel back to the time of dinosaurs, delve into the ocean’s depths, and take an adventure into outer space.
Daily from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
From 45 SAR
The Hive
Music and game lovers unite! Engage in a variety of new challenges such as the illuminated golf course, musical performances, and karaoke rooms.
Daily from 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM
From 15 SAR
Zeela House
Join your friends and test your survival skills in a haunted maze filled with ghosts, zombies, and strange events.
Daily from 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
From 45 SAR
Also watch out for Disney: The Castle coming this November 22. Fall in love with the enchanting melodies of your beloved Disney movies such as The Little Mermaid, Encanto, Aladdin, Frozen, and the Lion King.
BLVD WORLD
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/UyBxuP71UZS9879k6?g_st=ic
Dive into a rich tapestry of cultures and explore a wide range of experiences, including art, sports, and more. This year, BLVD World showcases 14 countries: China, Morocco, Levant (encompassing countries like Lebanon and Jordan), Greece, Italy, Egypt, India, Mexico, Spain, Thailand, Japan, USA, United Kingdom, and France.
In addition to immersing yourself in the various cultures, you can also enjoy numerous experiences such as The Wheel, Super Fly, CocoMelon, Play O City, BLVD Lagoon Rides, skill games, and more.
4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Weekend Entrance Only: 58 SAR
Weekday Entrance Only: 29 SAR
THE GROVES
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/CSpfCi8jjJ938Ju66
The Groves is making a comeback, and this time, they’re here to stay in a brand-new location, promising a fresh and innovative experience. Zama Zulu returns, bringing the taste of Africa through its cuisine and entertainment. Joining the scene are new restaurants: Little Krazy, Hawanim Groves City, Yamagata, and Vida Vera.
VIA RIYADH
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/2sCVDNzLvZ1mYJpo9
This complex features the first St. Regis hotel in Saudi Arabia, the luxurious Renaissance Theatres, seventeen restaurants offering a variety of cuisines from Japanese and American to Italian and French, as well as upscale and exclusive boutiques such as Dolce & Gabbana, Ashi, Westerly, Maria Tash, and Sergio Rossi.
WONDER GARDEN
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/tbqFYC5fexKotdsK6
Prepare to be enchanted by this mesmerizing theme park. Launching on November 13th, the zone boasts over 70 rides and attractions, including the captivating Flamingo Lake, the Bloom zone adorned with flower-inspired art installations and a giant ferris wheel, and the Butterfly Garden. Additionally, there are two arcade halls, 15 shops, 26 restaurants, and over 60 roaming acts and stage shows.
KINGDOM ARENA
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/27QYHL529uTRQZLGA
The Kingdom Arena was built in just two months, covering an expansive area of over 200,000 square meters and having a capacity to accommodate 40,000 people. It served as the location for the opening ceremony, witnessing Tyson Fury’s victory over Francis Nagannuto in the “Battle of the Baddest.”
This year, the Kingdom Arena will host international concerts, including the performance by Post Malone last November 17th. Additionally, it will be the site for exciting sports events like the RS Cup, RS Men’s and Women’s Tennis Cup, and Padel Championship.
SUWAIDI PARK
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/udv4SHQJhbbyDVpV7
Suwaidi Park has opened its doors for its second edition, welcoming visitors to explore its attractions. In the upcoming weeks, the park will be the showcase for seven countries, each presenting its unique culture. Participating nations include India, Philippines, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Sudan, and Bangladesh. Attendees can anticipate different attractions, including music and dance performances, stalls featuring local cuisine and products, children’s play areas, dining venues, and more.
4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Free entrance
RAMLA TERRAZA
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/keukx5v6qf2MYtzUA
Ramla Terraza is a destination for luxurious dining as it features four upscale restaurants: the Japanese restaurant Clap, the Argentinian steakhouse Brute, the gourmet resto and food market Jones the Grocer, and the café and lounge Iris.
FOOD TRUCK PARK
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/tretCoSMzxG1Qno37
The Riyadh Food Truck Festival will be offering a diverse array of flavors as it brings together local and international cultures by gathering the finest food trucks from across the globe in one place. Ready to taste a smorgasbord of food starting December 21st.
RIYADH ZOO
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/7ytGSqdcSazBEeiUA
The Riyadh Zoo has returned with an increased capacity to offer more wildlife wonders! Enjoy remarkable experiences in six subzones: the Garden for a relaxing park experience, the Enchanted Forest featuring the Red Panda, the latest addition to the zoo, Wild Adventures where you can interact with elephants and encounter lions, Almalaz Bay where kangaroos and tigers await, The Swamp for crocodiles and white tigers, and the Ape Escape for monkeys and chimpanzees. Explore your favorite wildlife starting November 12 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
ROSHN FRONT
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/vVPGsDNE99hjxgyZA
Roshn Front is more than just a location — it’s a dynamic hub fostering connection, curiosity, and innovation. This zone will bring the best exhibitions catering to multiple interests and age groups, featuring unforgettable experiences such as the Riyadh Toy Festival and Ana Arabia.
SOUQ ALAWALEEN
📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/ekWCusaB5XMiBDAR7
Embark on a journey through the historic Najdi market at Souq AlAwaleen, where you’ll witness performances, events, and stores featuring traditional goods. Beyond being a mere shopping spot, the souq serves as a vibrant testament to the region’s abundant history. The Souq opens on December 1st.
Plan your visit now and make lasting memories together with your loved ones. Check the updates about Riyadh Season at www.riyadhseason.com. Events and attractions can be booked through www.webook.com.
Photo credits: x.com/riyadhseason and instagram.com/riyadhseason
