Here’s how to make the most of the month ahead.
Saudi Arabia, it’s time to get your diary out. The Kingdom is ending the year with a bang, thanks to its festivals. Whether it’s Noor Riyadh, MDLBeast Soundstorm, or the Red Sea International Film Festival, there is something for everyone. We’re here to help you impress your friends and family and make sure you don’t get FOMO. So, get ready for food, film, or a whole lot of fun, here are the best things to do in Saudi Arabia in December.
Sunday 1 December
Have lunch at SUSHISAMBA Riyadh
SUSHISAMBA Riyadh is now open for lunch. Step into its vibrant ambience and escape the midday hustle while indulging in a unique blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavours. Experience the new Hayai Lunch Menu, thoughtfully crafted for a quick yet memorable meal.
GO: Call +966 11 269 5347 for reservations and more information.
Monday 2 December
Have breakfast at HUQQA Riyadh
Start your day with breakfast at HUQQA, where the renewed Turkish breakfast promises a memorable meal. The menu caters to every taste, whether you crave traditional Turkish flavours or contemporary creations. Customise your meal to suit your preferences, with highlights including a variety of toasts and freshly baked goods, such as the Avocado Mushroom Benedict and artisanal Simit Toast. Indulge in a personalised breakfast journey every day from 9am to 3pm with the deluxe Turkish breakfast for two available for SAR 252.
GO: Visit www.huqqa.com or call +966 54 890 1292 for reservations and more information.
Tuesday 3 December
Light up your day with Noor Riyadh
The largest light art festival in the world, Noor Riyadh, is back for its fourth edition. Running from 28 November to 14 December, the Saudi capital is transformed into a dazzling canvas of light and creativity. This year’s theme is Light Year’s Apart and it promises an enchanting experience across the city. With over 60 artworks on display, expect to be captivated by the creativity, from large-scale public installations to mesmerising projections.
GO: Visit https://riyadhart.sa for more information.
Wednesday 4 December
Watch the PIF Saudi International
PIF Saudi International, powered by SoftBank Investment Advisers, will take place from 4 to 7 December. The event will take place at Riyadh Golf Club and bring together the world’s best golf players. Tickets start from SAR 50.
GO: Visit https://webook.com for more information.
Thursday 5 December
See the stars at The Red Sea International Film Festival
The Red Sea International Film Festival returns for its fourth edition and runs from 5 to 14 December. The festival has made its mark on the Kingdom’s cultural scene and welcomed the biggest stars from around the world. The event includes film screenings, panel discussions and premieres. Plus, the American film director Spike Lee will preside over the Red Sea: Features Competition jury.
GO: Visit https://redseafilmfest.com for more information.
Friday 6 December
Eat your way around the Saudi Feast Food Festival
Come hungry, as Saudi Arabia is set to welcome the Saudi Feast Food Festival. Running from 27 November to 6 December, the event showcases food from across the Kingdom. Launched in Jeddah in 2021, the festival takes place in Abadi Aljohar Arena. The event showcases the country’s diversity of food and bring together established and emerging chefs.
GO: Follow @mocculinary on Instagram for more information.
Saturday 7 December
Join the New Jokes Comedy Show in Riyadh
The Comedy Pod in Riyadh is getting ready to make you laugh. Every Saturday, comedians come together to test out their new material. The show takes place in Arabic, and tickets start from SAR 45.
GO: Visit https://webook.com for more information.
Sunday 8 December
Grab a snack at Saudi Arabia’s first sourdough café
The Rustic Bakery prides itself on bringing international pastries to the local market. At the heart of the menu is sourdough, which has been created by Executive Chef, Francesco Luigi Carusi. The Rustic Bakery’s menu includes bread, cakes, cookies, croissants, desserts, pastries, sourdoughs, and tarts. Sourdough options include Rustic Sourdough, Seeds Sourdough, and Walnut Sourdough. Croissants range from Croissant Parigino to Croissant Pistashio.
GO: Visit https://rustic-bakery.com for more information.
Monday 9 December
Try the business lunch at La Petite Maison Riyadh
Make your weekday lunchtimes more lovely with La Petite Maison Riyadh’s Business Lunch. Running from Sunday to Thursday from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, the experience showcases French cuisine with seasonal dishes like Chestnut Velouté, Crab Risotto with Caviar and Pan-fried Scallops, and the Jean à Jean mocktail.
GO: Visit https://lpmrestaurants.com/riyadh for more information.
Tuesday 10 December
Party in the Wonder District in Jeddah
The Wonder District brings together arts, culture, and entertainment and is home to 10 interactive zones. Running until 10 December, it includes games and immersive experiences for all ages. Look out for the different zones, including a smiley beach, rides and carnival games, a scary circus, a fun-filled forest and a wonder job. Plus, there are food and drink stalls, and shops. The district is open daily from 4pm to midnight on weekdays, and 4pm to 1.30am on weekends. Tickets are available now and start from SAR 35.
GO: Follow @jed.calendar on Instagram for more information.
Wednesday 11 December
Check out MDLBeast’s cool cultural space
Ahead of MDLBeast Soundstorm, the team behind the festival has transformed a former equestrian club into a music venue. Located in the Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, Attaché prioritises local ingredients, eco-friendly cleaning practices, and reducing food waste through initiatives like its kitchen garden. The aim is to create community-based event spaces, connect artists together, and create a social space.
GO: Visit https://mdlbeast.com for more information.
Thursday 12 December
Watch Eminem make his MDLBeast Soundstorm debut
Eminem is about to make history with his first-ever concert in Saudi Arabia, as he headlines MDLBeast Soundstowm on 12 December. The legendary rapper, born Marshall Bruce Mathers, is famous for his raw and intense lyrics and rapid-fire flow. His hits include The Real Slim Shady, Without Me, and Mockingbird.
GO: Visit https://mdlbeast.com for more information.
Friday 13 December
Party with Tyler, The Creator at MDLBeast Soundstorm
With hits like See You Again and Boredom, Tyler The Creator has garnered critical acclaim. The rapper, producer, and visionary artist is known for his eclectic style and boundary-pushing music. Tyler’s music has since evolved, blending genres like jazz, soul, and funk. His 2017 album Flower Boy showed a softer, more introspective side. While his critically acclaimed 2019 album IGOR solidified his status, with the hit single EARFQUAKE becoming a commercial success.. Now, he is making his debut in Saudi Arabia and performing at MDLBeast Soundstorm on 13 December.
GO: Visit https://mdlbeast.com for more information.
Saturday 14 December
Catch Thirty Seconds to Mars at MDLBeast Soundstorm
Led by Jared Leto, Thirty Seconds to Mars combines rock with cinematic sounds in hits like The Kill and Kings and Queens. The band has won multiple MTV Europe Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and many more. Now, they are making their debut in Saudi Arabia and performing at MDLBeast Soundstorm on 14 December.
GO: Visit https://mdlbeast.com for more information.
Sunday 15 December
Try the new Italian restaurant Che Figata
Che Figata brings a touch of la dolce vita to Saudi Arabia. Located in Fairmont Hotel Riyadh, the Italian restaurant celebrates authentic flavours from the country. So, if you’re after classic sauces, hand-tossed pizzas and a traditional tiramisu, this is the place for you. In Italian, che figata means how cool. The concept draws inspiration from the hills of Piedmont and Tuscany to the shores of Calabria and Sicily. Chef Rino Serra is behind the menu, which showcases flavours from his home.
GO: Visit www.fairmont.com for more information.
Monday 16 December
Catch Diriyah Art Futures’ first exhibition
Diriyah Art Futures has unveiled its first art exhibition, Art Must Be Artificial: Perspectives of AI in the Visual Arts. Running from 26 November to 14 February, it showcases the power of digital art, new forms of technological development and the history of computer art, from the 1960s to the present day.
GO: Visit https://daf.moc.gov.sa for more information.
Tuesday 17 December
Dine at Café Boulud
Saudi Arabia is fast becoming a dining destination. Now, it’s about to get more exciting, thanks to the launch of restaurateur Daniel Boulud’s Café Boulud at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre. At Café Boulud Riyadh, you can indulge in a thoughtfully curated menu that celebrates the distinct flavours of French cuisine. Highlights include the Lavender-Glazed Duck Breast and Potato-Wrapped Sea Bass, alongside Thai-infused dishes from the Voyage menu.
GO: Visit www.fourseasons.com for more information.
Wednesday 18 December
Be wowed by Warner Bros pop-up in Riyadh
Blvd City is hosting the largest-ever Warner Bros pop-up, which brings the screen to life with family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a superhero fan or just love Warner Bros classic characters, from Bugs Bunny to Daffy Duck, then this is the place for you.
GO: Visit https://riyadhseason.com for more information.
Thursday 19 December
Dig into Il Baretto Riyadh’s new menu
Il Baretto Riyadh has launched a new aperitivo menu, and it has got out stomachs rumbling. The experience is available daily from 5pm to 7pm, and brings to life Italy’s aperitivo tradition. The menu starts from SAR 135 per person, and includes five tapas-style dishes and one drink.
GO: Visit https://ilbaretto.sa for more information.
Friday 20 December
Dine at the celebrity favourite Mr Chow
A-listers from Adele to Justin Bieber have been spotted at Mr Chow. With venues across America, from Beverly Hills to New York City, the restaurant recently opened in Riyadh. Executive Chef Jia Hef is behind the fine dining menu, which includes Chicken Satay, Green Prawns, Peking Duck and handmade noodles.
GO: Visit www.mrchow.com for more information.
Friday 20 December
Eat at the newly opened Akira Back
Akira Back has restaurants in Dubai, London, Paris, Seoul, Singapore, and Toronto. Now, the celebrity chef has opened his self-titled concept to Riyadh. Located at 1364 in the Diplomatic Quarter, it showcases Japanese and Korean cuisine.
GO: Visit https://unifiedhospitality.com for reservations and more information.
Saturday 21 December
Get ready to rumble at Reignited 2
Saudi Arabia has hosted some of the world’s biggest boxing events. On 21 December, Reignited 2 takes place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh. The event sees Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury.
GO: Visit https://riyadhseason.com for more information.
Sunday 22 December
Book a business lunch at The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh
The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh’s Azzuro restaurant hosts a buzzing business lunch. The menu includes pastas, seafood, and meats. From Sunday to Thursday, two-course meals start at SAR 110, and three-course meals start at SAR 140.
GO: Visit www.ritzcarlton.com for more information.
Monday 23 December
Check out Salt Al Bahar
Al Khobar has welcomed Salt’s largest beachside destination with the arrival of Salt Al Bahar. Located in Al Bahar, Salt is turning up the heat for its 10th anniversary. Winter season passes start from SAR 100.
GO: Follow @findsalt.sa on Instagram for more information.
Tuesday 24 December
Tuck into coffees and cakes at Bakers Field
Mutah Beale has been making his mark in Saudi Arabia. The American rapper turned restaurateur is behind the concepts OKLA, Q On Da Go and the FACT award winning Smokey Beards Q. Now, he has opened the new café, Bakers Field, which can be found in Hittin. Head to the counter for the pretty pastries, freshly baked bread and speciality coffee. Plus, it includes an industrial chic look with exposed bricks, soft beige and browns and white tables.
GO: Follow @bakersfieldsa on Instagram for more information.
Wednesday 25 December
Get your fashion fix with Christian Dior
Fashion, food and fun come together this Riyadh Season. Christian Dior, The Designer of Dreams Exhibition takes place at Al Murabaa National Museum. The exhibition will also be home to a pop-up Dior café and souvenir shop.
GO: Visit https://riyadhseason.com for more information.
Thursday 26 December
Visit The Groves
Located in Ar Rafiah, The Groves has been one of Riyadh Season’s most popular zones. The venue is traditionally home to upmarket restaurants and live entertainment. In previous years, the zone included football festivities and North Pole-inspired experiences. Plus, it opened a Lavender Garden, which drew inspiration from Islamic gardens. Expect your favourite dining concepts here.
GO: Visit https://riyadhseason.com for more information.
Friday 27 December
Check into Shebara Resort in the Red Sea
Located in the Red Sea’s Al Wajh Lagoon, Shebara Resort is now welcoming guests. This beachfront property features beautiful pod-shaped and dazzling dining options. The restaurants include Ariamare, Iki, Roe, Lunara, Saria and Solera.
GO: Visit https://shebara.sa for more information.
Saturday 28 December
Explore Suwaidi Park
Suwaidi Park will take you around nine countries through traditional music, dances, and food. Here, you can immerse yourself in the history and heritage of these cultures, featuring Indonesia, India, Pakistan, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Sudan and Sri Lanka.
GO: Visit https://riyadhseason.com for more information.
Sunday 29 December
Uncover the secret restaurant Kimyona
FACT loves a secret restaurant. So, we were excited to uncover a new Pan Asian restaurant in Al Olaya Complex. Kimyona in Riyadh is accessible via a hidden door. The name Kimyona is derived from the Japanese word for curious. The menu is filled with Pan Asian dishes that are superb for sharing. Highlights include Bang Nang Prawns, Caramel Chilean and Mango Jungle Curry.
GO: Follow @kimyona.sa on Instagram for more information.
Monday 30 December
Enjoy the buffet at Address Jabal Omar Makkah
Address Jabal Omar Makkah’s The Restaurant’s all-day buffet is the place to go for a feast. Start your day on a high with a big breakfast or refuel with a midday meal. Dishes include classic Saudi Arabian dishes, and captures the essence of Makkah. Until 30 December, the restaurant offers a 20 per cent discount on lunch and dinner, and 10 per cent off breakfast for in-house guests.
GO: Visit www.addresshotels.com for more information.
Tuesday 31 December
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at ROKA
Rock in the new year at ROKA Jeddah or ROKA Riyadh. The two restaurants will be celebrating New Year’s Eve with special offers. The night includes a DJ spinning top tunes and a percussionist performing throughout the evening. Plus, there will be a Polaroid camera so you can capture the memories, festive tiaras, hats and glasses, and celebratory branded confetti.
GO: Visit www.rokarestaurant.com for more information.
