Make the most of the month ahead with food, films and festivals.
Who said Saudi Arabia shuts down in the summer? Sure, the temperature is scorching, but the cultural scene is heating up. Look out for amazing artists, marvellous menus and fantastic films. Here are the best things to do in Saudi Arabia in August.
Thursday 1 August
Catch musicians at AFT_r in Riyadh
Game on, Saudi. The Esports World Cup, previously known as Gamers8, is coming to Riyadh from 4 July to 15 August. It will take place at Mohammed Abdo Arena in Boulevard Riyadh City and bring together the world’s greatest gamers and amazing artists. On 1 August, the line-up includes Don Toliver, Alesso, and Shancoty.
GO: Visit https://riyadh.platinumlist.net for more information.
Friday 2 August
Watch Axwell and Don Toliver in Jeddah
MDLBeast Presents: This is Onyx is taking place in Jeddah. The headliners include Axwell and Don Toliver. The support acts include Lil Eazy and Saolin. Axwell, whose real name is Axel Christofer Hedfors, is a prominent figure in the world of electronic dance music. Axwell has produced a string of solo hits, from Center of the Universe to I Found You. Don Toliver is an American rapper and singer. He is from Texas, United States. His hit songs include After Party and No Idea.
GO: Visit https://jeddah.platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 3 August
Watch BLACKPINK’s BORN PINK World Tour in the cinema
If you couldn’t get tickets to BLACKPINK’s BORN PINK World Tour, fear not. The film version is coming to cinemas, and showcases Jenoo, Jisoo, Lisa and Rose’s biggest hits. The audience attracted 1.8 million people, and broke global records for a female group.
GO: Visit https://ksa.voxcinemas.com for more information.
Sunday 4 August
Watch M. Night Symalan’s new film
Director M. Night Symalan is behind some of the biggest thrillers – and plot twists – in cinema. His films include Glass, The Sixth Sense and Unbreakable. Now, he is releasing his new film, Trap. Starring Josh Hartnett and Ariel Donoghue, it follows a father and daughter as they attend a concert, and then find themselves around an awkward chain of events.
GO: Visit https://ksa.voxcinemas.com for more information.
Monday 5 August
Visit Al Abo Sarrah Palaces
Aseer’s Al Abo Sarrah Palaces are open to the public until 30 August. The three palaces in the middle of Al-Aziza village were built by Sheikh Laheg bin Ahmed Abu Sarrah. Created in 1834, they were recently renovated by his grandchildren.
GO: Visit https://www.visitsaudi.com for more information.
Tuesday 6 August
Make a visit to Nafas Event
Make a trip to Aseer and join Nafas Event. Enjoy family-friendly fun in one location. Dig into diverse food trucks with picturesque outdoor seating. Visitors can enjoy live performances, thrilling adventures for adults and a dedicated area for children. Kids can enjoy games and activities.
GO: Visit https://abha.platinumlist.net for more information.
Wednesday 7 August
Visit Deirtna Market in Abha
If you’re looking for a shopping experience with a difference, head to Deirtna Market in Abha. Running until 30 August, it includes stalls with handicrafts. Check out the pottery making and wicker making, and cafés and restaurants. Plus, there is live entertainment with musicians and singers.
GO: Visit https://abha.platinumlist.net for more information.
Thursday 8 August
Catch Jack Harlow live in Riyadh
Game on, Saudi. The Esports World Cup is coming to Riyadh from 4 July to 15 August. It will take place at Mohammed Abdo Arena in Boulevard Riyadh City and bring together the world’s greatest gamers and musicians. On 8 August, the line-up includes Jack Harlow, Salvatore Ganacci, and Sharkk.
GO: Visit https://riyadh.platinumlist.net for more information.
Friday 9 August
Watch Salvatore Ganacci in Jeddah
MDLBeast Presents: This is Onyx takes place in Jeddah. The headliners include Jack Harlow and Salvatore Ganacci. The support acts include Jeed and Saud. Jack Harlow hails from Kentucky, United States. In 2020, he released his first single, What’s Poppin. His songs include First Class, Gang Gang Gang and Lovin On Me. Salvatore Ganacci is a Bosnian Swedish DJ and record producer, and he is best known for his electronic dance music.
GO: Visit https://riyadh.platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 10 August
Take a tour of the castles of Abu Nuqar Al Mathami in Abha
As Aseer Season gets underway, look out for special events. The region is famed for its lush landscapes and cooler temperatures. Join a historical tour of the castles in the region, which include Tabb. Visitors can also visit forts and palaces, which are built on the mountainside. Tickets start from SAR 10.
GO: Visit https://saudievents.sa for more information.
Sunday 11 August
Join a hiking trail in Abha’s Mount Mana’a and Mount Moma
Tie up your laces. If you want to go on a hike but need a helping hand, then join this guided trail. The guides will take you through Mount Mana’a and Mount Moma in Tanuma, and you can choose between three trails that suit different difficulty levels. Tickets start from SAR 115.
GO: Visit https://abha.platinumlist.net for more information.
Monday 12 August
Grab a smashed burger at the new OKLA
It’s not often that a rapper becomes a restaurateur. Mutah Beale was one of the founding members of the Tupac-led rap group, Outlawz. He is behind the smashed burger concept, OKLA. The menu features the Oklahoma onion-smashed burger with American cheese and special sauce.
GO: Follow @oklaburger1 on Instagram for more information.
Tuesday 13 August
Dine out at the new bistro Aykr
The new bistro Aykr has opened in the capital. Located in An Narjis, the menu showcases salads, sandwiches and sharing dishes. The menu spans appetisers, sharing dishes, beef bar and desserts. The sharing dishes include Chicken Tacos, Fish Tostadas, Grilled Shrimp Tostadas, and Short Rib Tacos.
GO: Follow @aykr.sa on Instagram for more information.
Wednesday 14 August
Savour a sweet treat from A.O.K Kitchen
A.O.K Kitchen in Riyadh is hosting a Scones Party for the summer. The first-of-its-kind menu brings the classic British tradition to the capital. The new menu features eight flavours—four sweet and four savoury—using local and homegrown ingredients. The flavours include Blue Cheese and Orange Blossom Honey, Jalapeno and Aged Cheddar Cheese, and Roasted Peppers and Feta Cheese. All scones are served with clotted cream and homemade preserves like strawberry jam.
GO: Visit www.aokkitchen.co.uk for more information.
Thursday 15 August
See DJs Afrojack and Cosmicat
Ready player one? The Esports World Cup is coming to Riyadh from 4 July to 15 August. Taking place at Mohammed Abdo Arena in Boulevard Riyadh City. On 15 August, the line-up includes international DJ Afrojack as well as local DJ Cosmicat.
GO: Visit https://riyadh.platinumlist.net for more information.
Friday 16 August
Watch musicians Afrojack and Bebe Rexha in Jeddah
On 16 August, the headliners at MDLBeast Presents: The Onyx include Afrojack and Bebe Rexha. The support act includes Loush. Afrojack hails from Holland. He went from learning graphic design to playing in local pubs. Today, he is one of the highest-earning DJs in the world, and has won a Grammy Award and MTV Europe Music Award. Bebe Rexha is an American singer and songwriter. Her hits include Meant to Be and I’m a Mess.
GO: Visit https://jeddah.platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 17 August
Dine with Le Petit Chef in Riyadh
Chefs don’t get much cuter than Le Petit Chef. The world’s smallest chef has been entertaining guests across the world, and is now returning to KAZO Restaurant in Le Méridien Riyadh. Serving plates on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 31 August, Le Petit Chef’s return is sure to bring a smile on your face.
GO: Visit https://lepetitchef.com for reservations and more information.
Sunday 18 August
Dine at the new Il Vero Alfredo
Il Vero Alfredo has made its way from Rome to Jeddah. Located in Al Shati, this legendary restaurant from Rome promises an authentic Italian dining experience. The Italian classics include Gran fritto Alfredo, Spigola, Fusilloni Carbonara and many more.
GO: Follow @ilveroalfredojeddah on Instagram for more information.
Monday 19 August
Check out Cacho The Cheese’s new restaurant in Riyadh
Cacho The Cheese has opened in Al Wadi, Riyadh. The destination boasts an eye-catching design with lime green seats, indoor trees and its logo in lights. Spanning indoor and outdoor seats, it is great for groups, as there are large, long tables. The menu spans starters, calzone, pizza, pasta, risotto and dessert. Pizzas include Burrata Pizza, Pesto Pizza and Tuscany Chicken Pizza.
GO: Follow @cachoeats on Instagram for more information.
Tuesday 20 August
Eat out at MANKO in Jeddah
The original MANKO can be found in Paris, France. The restaurant is located at Avenue Montaigne and is a sultry spot. The Jeddah venue is a sophisticated spot. The food menu showcases Peruvian cuisine with Asian influences. The menu covers antichuchos, ceviche, ensalada, manko rolls, nigiri, para picar, sashimi, tiraditors and more.
GO: Follow @manko.ksa on Instagram for more information.
Wednesday 21 August
Make the most of staycation offers at Fairmont Riyadh
Fairmont Riyadh has unveiled its summer packages. Royal Urban Retreat includes breakfast, a 90-minute massage and a meal at House of Grill. Luxurious Romantic Escape is designed for anniversaries and honeymoons. Plus, Escape to Luxury Weekend Getaway offers 15 per cent off stays every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
GO: Visit www.fairmont.com for more information.
Thursday 22 August
Watch the horror film Blink Twice
Scare yourself silly with the new horror film, Blink Twice. A tech billionaire Slater King invites a waitress to go on vacation on his private island. Strange things start to happen, and the guests start to question their reality. The film marks Zoe Kravitz’s directorial debut, and she has written the script with E.T. Fiegenbaum.
GO: Visit https://ksa.voxcinemas.com for more information.
Friday 23 August
Treat yourself to The St. Regis Red Sea Resort’s spa offer
The St. Regis Red Sea Resort has unveiled its Summer Splendor offer. Running until the end of August, the offer includes 20 per cent off stays, food and drink, and spa treatments. Located on The Red Sea, the spa includes eight rooms with gazebos and outdoor baths, and treatment cabins.
GO: Visit www.marriott.com for more information.
Saturday 24 August
Challenge yourself with the AlUla Desert Blaze
AlUla Desert Blaze sees participants run through iconic landmarks, including the ancient tombs of Hegra, mirrored Maraya building and more. The four categories include a five-kilometre race, a 10-kilometre race and a 21-kilometre race. This full marathon is the ultimate challenge, stretching from Hegra to Maraya and back.
GO: Visit www.experiencealula.com for more information.
Sunday 25 August
Dine out at the newly opened Public
While Public is known for its terrific takeaway pizzas, it is well worth checking out the restaurants. The vibrant venues can be found in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. The menu at Public in Riyadh spans starters, salads, pizzas, pastas, risottos and desserts. The pizzas include BBQ Ring with BBQ ranch, wagyu beef and short ribs; Buffalo with buffalo sauce, chicken and Padano cheese; Sweet Peppe with pepperoni, honey and basil; and Truffle Shuffle with truffle cream and mozzarella.
GO: Follow @public on Instagram for more information.
Monday 26 August
Eat at the new San Marzano
San Marzano has opened in Laysen Valley, Riyadh, and offers Italian food, drink, and vibes. So, grab a seat by the open kitchen and watch the chefs at work. Take your pick from the long banquette, chic chairs, or countertop seats, and watch the chefs in action at the open kitchen. The menu is great for groups and includes a range of pizzas. Plus, there is a wood-fired oven, which creates traditional-styled pizzas.
GO: Follow @sanmarzanosa on Instagram for more information.
Tuesday 27 August
Head over to the new Balcona 99 in Jeddah
There’s a new restaurant on the block in Jeddah. Egypt’s popular restaurant brand, Balcona 99, has opened in Lapaz Plaza. The team serve the same signature dishes as the restaurant in Riyadh, including roqaq meat (Egyptian meat pie) and grills such as pigeon stuffed with rice. Plus, it prides itself on offering an emphasis on fresh ingredients and family-friendly service.
GO: Follow @balcona.sa on Instagram for more information.
Wednesday 28 August
Check out Hay Jameel’s summer season
If you’re after your next culture fix, head down to Hayy Jameel in Jeddah. The arts centre has announced its summer program, Fenaa Hayy. Each month focuses on a specific theme. August will focus on music so expect acoustic nights, talent recognition and a whole lot more.
GO: Visit https://hayyjameel.org for more information.
Thursday 29 August
Enjoy a Persian feast
Ziba Restaurant in Khobar now offers a home catering service, delivering their skilled chefs and exceptional restaurant staff to your doorstep for a premium dining experience. Savour classic dishes like Kashk-O-Badamjan, a warm and comforting delight that showcases the rich depth of Persian cuisine. Feeling adventurous? Enjoy a memorable meal with Ziba’s signature Rice with Zereshk, a dish bursting with sweet and savoury notes—all from the comfort of your home.
GO: Visit https://qrco.de/be5mkJ for more information.
Friday 30 August
It’s your last chance to visit Terhaab
Aseer is spectacular in the summer. From 28 June to 30 August, it open Terhaab with family-friendly fun. The venue includes 15 residential cottages, 10 shopping booths and international restaurants. The kids will enjoy the nursery with educational games. Plus, there is live entertainment including musical bands and singers.
GO: Visit https://abha.platinumlist.net for more information.
Saturday 31 August
Watch Il Baretto Riyadh’s live music set
Il Baretto Riyadh has launched live music events. Running on weekday nights and Saturday lunchtime, it will take place throughout the summer. Drawing inspiration from Italian hospitality, unique regions, it showcases the culture and traditions of the country. The line-up includes bands, pianists and jazz musicians.
GO: Visit https://ilbaretto.sa for more information.
