Riyadh Season is bringing hundreds of thrilling things to do to the Saudi capital, from top-flight tennis matches to global game launches and more.
While tickets are required for most of these events, there's also plenty to see without spending a single riyal.
Free entry for over-60s has also been launched at zones including Boulevard World, Boulevard Runway and Wonder Garden, with seniors able to obtain access cards through the Tawakkalna app.
For everyone else, here's our round-up of the best free things to do at Riyadh Season.
Try traditional cuisine from across the globe
This free-to-visit hotspot celebrates Riyadh’s diverse expat communities, with weekly rotating themes that spotlight countries like Pakistan, Egypt and Bangladesh. Each week, the park transforms, letting you tuck into the vibrant flavours and traditions of a different culture. Expect affordable bites galore, with stalls dishing up everything from fragrant curries to sizzling grills — it's a taste of home for some, and an invitation to explore for everyone.
Enjoy global celebrations from India, the Philippines and more
Al Suwaidi Park isn't just about the food. Each week, the venue brings each culture to life with lively performances and celebrations. So far, visitors have been wowed by shows from India and the Philippines, featuring everything from DJs spinning crowd-favourite tunes to traditional dance performances that light up the night. The park is also brimming with bustling bazaars, offering everything from clothing and delicious treats to handcrafted souvenirs. Check out the full schedule here.
Experience Saudi's culture through heritage performances
Over at Souq Al Awaleen, which is also free to enter, Riyadh Season highlights Saudi's traditional culture, with each corner of the Kingdom bringing something of its own to the experience. Expect traditional pop-up performances featuring the hypnotic beats of the Najdi drum to Asir’s mesmerizing Al Ardah dance. Keep an eye on Riyadh Season’s official Instagram for all the latest announcements.
Meet 1,300 animals at Riyadh Zoo
With more than 1,300 animals from 190 species across a sprawling 55-acre park, visitors to the Riyadh Zoo zone can get up close with playful chimps at the Ape Escape, catch a glimpse of the rare red panda in the Enchanted Forest, or watch as crocodiles lurk in the Swamp. Head to the Kangaroo Arena, where you can snap a selfie with these iconic Australian animals, or venture through the Wild Adventures safari zone to see the mighty lion in action — the perfect budget-friendly day out for animal lovers of all ages.
Shop for trinkets and crafts at Souq Al Awaleen
Adding to the buzzy live performances, Souq Al Awaleen’s colourful souq serves up an unbeatable shopping experience inspired by Saudi tradition. Roam through aisles of stalls full of handcrafted treasures, from intricate jewellery and handwoven textiles to aromatic spices and pottery — each piece a demonstration of Saudi’s unique regional artistry and craftsmanship.
