Here’s how to make the most of the month ahead.
It’s the start of a new month, which means it’s time to fill up your cultural calendar. As spring is in full swing, Riyadh comes alive. The month ahead is packed with excitement, featuring a variety of sporting events and culinary experiences. Plus, there are concerts, cultural and culinary events. Here are the best things to do in Riyadh in May.
Friday 1 May
Journey Into Nature at Nofa Riyadh
Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort, introduces three new offers, each designed to reflect a different way of experiencing time. The Family Experience includes one dinner per person at EC Café Restaurant, for a relaxed setting to unwind; a bowling voucher for a private cinema with popcorn and soft drinks; a complimentary closed-car safari; and a late check-out, subject to availability. The Relaxation Experience gives guests access to Amani Spa facilities, complemented by a one-hour Classic Swedish massage. A seasonal fruit basket, a box of Nofa dates, and a floral bed decoration are provided upon arrival, and a complimentary late check-out is available, subject to availability. The Full Board Staycation includes a set-menu lunch at EC Restaurant, followed by an afternoon tea or coffee with a slice of cake at the Tea Lounge, and a set-menu dinner at Butcher’s Den.
Where: Nofa Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Resort, Exit 857, Riyadh Makkah Highway, Riyadh, 66223
Contact: www.radissonhotels.com
Saturday 2 May
Enjoy a six hands dinner at Café Boulud
Café Boulud, located at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, is presenting a six hands dinner on 1 and 2 May. This two-night-only culinary experience brings together three world-class chefs for a collaborative event. The experience will be led by Chef de Cuisine Thierry Motsch, with guest chefs Ruba Khoury and Ahlam Alsharief, fusing classical French techniques with a contemporary lens. Starters will include a stuffed Heirloom Tomato or Red Beetroot Tartare; mains will feature locally sourced Sea Bass with zaatar baladi or Mushroom-encrusted Angus Beef with tamarind foam and glazed asparagus. The evening ends with a Yuzu Crème Brûlée with Jazan mango, Taif prickly pear, and passion fruit.
Where: Café Boulud, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, Olayah, Riyadh
When: 1 and 2 May 2026
Price: SAR 499 per person
Contact: www.fourseasons.com
Sunday 3 May
Start the month at Murabba Palace
Built in the 1930s by King Abdulaziz, Murabba Historical Palace is one of Riyadh’s most important heritage sites. Its name means “square”, reflecting the traditional Najdi layout, with mudbrick walls, wooden ceilings and spacious courtyards. The wider complex includes multiple buildings, gardens, and historical artefacts associated with the Kingdom’s early unification era.
Where: Murabba Palace, 2722 King Saud Road, Al Murabba, Riyadh, 12631
Contact: www.rcrc.gov.sa
Monday 4 May
Take a stroll around Salam Park
Salam Park is one of Riyadh’s easiest outdoor wins, especially in the cooler months. Set near the historic heart of the city, it pairs wide lawns with shaded walking paths and a central lake that draws families from late afternoon onwards. Come for a sunset stroll, rent a bike, or simply claim a picnic spot and watch the park shift from laidback daytime calm to a lively evening scene. With plenty of space for kids to run around and pockets of greenery for photos, it’s a simple, feel-good escape from the city’s fast pace.
Where: Salam Park, Al Salam, Riyadh, 12651
Contact: www.visitsaudi.com
Tuesday 5 May
Participate in a Taif Rose cooking class
In this intimate culinary experience, Chef Wisam Khashoggi invites guests into the story of the Taif rose. This guided session transcends traditional cooking, providing guests with a real understanding of how ingredients are shaped by history and culture. The experience includes guided sensory exercises, a tour of the Biosphere and the Butterfly Dome, and the chance to create your own rose salt to take home. The workshop will offer a unique way to experience one of the Kingdom’s most valued ingredients.
Where: FoodSphere, 6871 Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, Riyadh, 12242
When: Tuesday, 5 May 2026 at 2pm.
Price: SAR 316
Contact: https://webook.com
Wednesday 6 May
Indulge in Steak Night at The Lighthouse
The Lighthouse Restaurant and Lounge has launched Steak Night, a new weekly dining experience available every Wednesday from 6pm onwards at its Riyadh locations. Designed to bring a classy midweek ritual to the city’s culinary scene, Steak Night showcases The Lighthouse’s blend of refined comfort food, quality ingredients, and top hospitality. Guests can choose between two steak options: a 250g grass-fed striploin, served with parmesan fries and a choice of sauce, or a 260g char-grilled ribeye, finished with shallot and caper relish, mustard sauce, and wild rocket. Each dish is accompanied by a side of choice, including green salad, broccolini, chips, rice, or ratatouille.
Where: The Lighthouse, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh, 12512
When: Available every Wednesday from 6pm
Price: Available at SAR 140 per person.
Contact: https://thelighthouse.ae
Thursday 7 May
Experience a new era of dining at ROKA Riyadh
ROKA Riyadh invites guests to rediscover its reimagined space with a more intimate setting and a closer connection to the robata grill. The new space is complemented by a new à la carte menu, showcasing a selection of ROKA’s refined dishes paired with its classics. Signature dishes include Beef Katsu Sando with sweet soy, Eggplant with chilli miso, and Slow-cooked Beef Short Rib served with miso bun and pickles. Guests can also order favourites such as Chicken Wings glazed with yuzu kosho honey and ROKA’s ‘Baked’ Potato with yuzu cream and chives. The dessert menu also features an upgraded selection of Mochi in new flavours.
Where: ROKA Riyadh, 5140 Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh
When: Daily from 1pm to midnight
Contact: www.rokarestaurant.com
Friday 8 May
Watch Abeer Nehme at Vocally Nights
Get ready for an extraordinary night with the legendary singer Abeer Nehme as part of the Vocally Nights series in Riyadh. Abeer will perform her most loved hits, including ‘Besaraha’ and ‘Bala Ma Nhess,’ paired with a selection of Arabic heritage classics that she will skilfully reimagine, such as ‘Lamma Bada Yatathanna’ and ‘Layla Law Baqi Layla’. She will perform for one night only.
Where: Red Theatre, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh
When: Friday, 8 May 2026 at 7pm
Price: SAR 273.
Contact: https://webook.com
Saturday 9 May
Escape the Ordinary at Bab Samhan
Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah, is introducing a collection of seasonal stays for moments of reflection, connection, and indulgence. The Staycation Offer begins with breakfast at Medheef and a chance to explore nearby heritage sites or the hotel’s calm surroundings. The experience is complemented by a 20% discount on food and beverage, high-speed Wi-Fi, and complimentary valet parking.
Where: Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, 7628 King Faisal Ibn Abd Al Aziz Road, Diriyah
When: Available until 30 May 2026
Contact: www.marriott.com
Sunday 10 May
Visit the Black Gold Museum
Black Gold Museum offers a fully immersive experience, taking visitors on a journey through the history of oil – from its discovery to its role in shaping global economies and the development of the Kingdom. The experience is complemented by advanced technologies and interactive digital exhibitions, giving visitors the chance to explore energy production processes and understand their impact on everyday life and modern industries.
Where: Black Gold Museum, KAPSARC Complex, Riyadh
When: Monday to Thursday from 10am to 10pm, Friday to Saturday from 4pm to 10pm.
Price: Free entr
Contact: www.kapsarc.org
Monday 11 May
Explore the Thadiq Heritage Festival
Thadiq Heritage Festival is a cultural festival that brings past traditions and lifestyles into the present day through authentic crafts, traditional foods, live performances, and family-friendly activities. The festival provides a fun way to experience classic Saudi heritage, reviving local customs through an immersive, educational, and social experience. Visitors can explore handcrafted goods, try traditional Saudi dishes, and watch live cultural performances, all showcasing the richness of the Kingdom’s heritage.
Where: Thadiq, Riyadh
Contact: www.visitsaudi.com
Tuesday 12 May
Experience Six Flags Qiddiya City
Are you ready for an adventure like no other? Look no further than Six Flags Qiddiya, the ultimate destination for thrill seekers, adrenaline junkies and families seeking fun and entertainment. The theme park features five record-breaking rides, including Sirocco Tower, the world’s tallest free-standing shot tower ride; Gyropsin, the world’s tallest pendulum ride; Spitfire, the world’s tallest inverted top hat coaster; and Iron Rattler, the world’s tallest tilt coaster. However, it’s the gravity-defying Falcon’s Flight, the world’s longest, tallest and fastest coaster that will be Six Flags Qiddiya’s star attraction.
Where: Six Flags Qiddiya City, Qiddiya City, Riyadh Province
When: Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 3pm to 11pm, Fridays and Saturdays from 12pm to 12am
Price: Tickets from SAR 275
Contact: https://sixflagsqiddiyacity.com
Wednesday 13 May
Marvel at Al Masmak Palace Museum
A defining symbol of Saudi heritage, Al Masmak is a mudbrick fortress in the Ad-Dirah district that showcases traditional Najdi architecture. Inside, expect thick walls, watchtowers and a central courtyard, alongside galleries displaying photographs, weapons, documents and audio-visual exhibits that trace the Kingdom’s founding. Converted into a museum in 1995, the palace now houses photographs, weapons, documents, audio-visual exhibits, and artefacts that narrate the Kingdom’s founding.
Where: Al Masmak Palace Museum, 6937 Al Thumairi Street, Riyadh, 12634
When: Open daily from 8am to 9pm
Contact: https://heritage.moc.gov.sa
Thursday 14 May
Escape to Wadi Hanifah
Wadi Hanifah is Riyadh’s great green escape, stretching like a ribbon of calm through the city’s northwest. Come in the late afternoon when the light softens and the temperature drops, then follow the walking and cycling paths that weave past palms, picnic spots and still water. It’s the sort of place that makes Riyadh feel unexpectedly outdoorsy: families spreading blankets, runners clocking laps, friends lingering over takeaway coffee. Pack a few snacks, wear comfortable shoes and keep your camera handy, because golden hour here hits differently.
Where: Wadi Hanifah, Western Riyadh
Contact: www.visitsaudi.com
Friday 15 May
Step into the Mystical World of ‘Meet the Bees’
‘Meet the Bees’ is an extraordinary 1-hour-long adventure at FoodSphere. Perfect for families with kids, visitors set out on a fun-stacked journey where they’ll meet a beekeeper, try on real beekeeper gear, and learn educational facts whilst exploring the hive. They will also get a closer look at this fascinating world through an interactive experience that fuses learning with imagination, fostering a healthy curiosity of nature and pride in Saudi Arabia’s natural offerings.
Where: FoodSphere, 6871 Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz, Riyadh, 12242
When: Daily from 4pm to midnight until 30 May 2026
Price: SAR 55.
Contact: https://webook.com
Saturday 16 May
Fly into the skies of Saudi Arabia
If you thought you had seen everything Riyadh Season had to offer, think again. The capital is already packed with pop-ups, performances, and places to explore, and Boulevard City keeps adding fresh reasons to visit. The latest? A new attraction called Flying Over Saudi Arabia, which takes sightseeing to the next level by letting you experience the Kingdom from above, without ever boarding a plane. Launched at Boulevard City, Flying Over Saudi is billed as the country’s first immersive aerial experience. It is designed to make you feel like you can “fly” across Saudi Arabia while remaining firmly on the ground. The concept is simple but seriously impressive: a short, high-impact ride that blends cinematic visuals with physical effects, so you are not just watching the scenery, you are moving through it.
Where: Boulevard City, Hittin, Riyadh
When: Daily from 4pm to 4am
Price: SAR 70
Contact: www.webook.com
Sunday 17 May
Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Situated to the northwest of Riyadh, At Turaif is a 15th-century mud-brick citadel that served as the capital of the First Saudi State from 1727 to 1818. This stunning fortress showcases Najdi architecture, featuring fortified palaces, towers, and mosques, with breathtaking views overlooking Wadi Hanifah. At its heart stand the impressive four-storey Salwa Palace, the historic Saad Bin Saud Palace, which features a bathhouse, and the Imam Mohammad Bin Saud Mosque. Visitors can explore galleries showcasing social life, military history, and trade.
Where: At Turaif, Wadi Hanifah, Diriyah, 13711
When: Daily from 10am to midnight
Price: Free entry
Contact: www.diriyah.sa
Monday 18 May
Catch a new exhibition
Of the Earth: Earthly Technologies to Computational Biologies is the fourth major exhibition hosted by Diriyah Art Futures. Running from 14 January to 19 May 2026, it brings together works by more than 30 artists exploring how technology affects our relationship with nature. The exhibition examines how technology is seen as a tool for controlling the world, while acknowledging its environmental impact. The exhibition is free for children, students, and visitors with disabilities upon registration at the door.
Where: Diriyah Art Futures, 3029 Alemam Mohamed Bin Masoud, Diriyah, 13712
When: Open daily from 11am to 11pm until 19 May 2026
Contact: https://webook.com
Tuesday 19 May
Enjoy a Reimagined City Escape at Mansard Riyadh
In the centre of the city, Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel, offers a staycation inspired by elegance and ease. Parisian design meets the city’s contemporary vibe at this luxury hotel. The offering includes an overnight stay in a Collection Room, with breakfast at Sadelle’s, and an early check-in and late check-out, subject to availability. Wellbeing is effortlessly integrated into the staycation, with one-hour access to the L’Occitane Spa thermal zone and 15% savings on all spa treatments. Dining-wise, guests enjoy 20% savings at Sadelle’s and Carbone, with a complimentary mocktail.
Where: Mansard Riyadh, 4248 Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road, Ar Rabi, Riyadh
Contact: www.radissonhotels.com
Wednesday 20 May
Try out the brand-new Kantami
Kantami draws inspiration from Kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing ceramics with gold. The atmosphere is cinematic, with a modern izakaya feel that is casual and social, equally suited to a quick bite or a long, unhurried meal with friends. On the menu, classic Japanese techniques sit alongside playful, evolving twists. Highlights begin with appetisers like Roripoppu Prawn Lollipops, wrapped in a crisp shell and served with a punchy house sauce. For mains, Azabu Salmon Donburi pairs miso-butter-glazed grilled salmon with seasoned rice and dashi-simmered onions, served with a small bowl of miso soup.
Where: Kantami, 3634 Anas Ibn Malik Road, Al Malqa, Riyadh, 13524
Contact: @kantami.sa
Thursday 21 May
Escape to the Edge of the World
For one of the most spectacular day trips from the capital, head to Jabal Fihrayn and take in the cliff-top views that seem to stretch forever. Located around 120 kilometres from Riyadh, this dramatic landscape of rugged rock formations and dried riverbeds is best explored with a guide. Follow old caravan routes, walk historic trails once used by Bedouin traders and stay for golden hour when the scenery becomes even more cinematic.
Where: The Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn), Acacia Valley, Northwest Riyadh, 15426
Contact: www.edgeoftheworldtour.com
Friday 22 May
Enjoy Friday Brunch at Sofitel Riyadh
Zeline Restaurant at Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre has introduced a new refined Friday Brunch – a new sophisticated dining experience. Friday Brunch at Zeline brings the heart of French art de vivre to Saudi. Designed to bring groups together through food, the brunch includes a curated selection of dishes in a comforting setting.
Where: Sofitel Riyadh Hotel & Convention Centre, 6218 Al Urubah Road, Ar Rahmaniyyah, Riyadh
When: Fridays from rom 1pm to 4pm
Price: SAR 275 per person
Contact: https://sofitel.accor.com
Saturday 23 May
Check into the new W Riyadh – KAFD
W Riyadh – KAFD marks the brand’s first property in the Kingdom, bringing its high-energy take on luxury lifestyle hospitality to King Abdullah Financial District. The 210-room hotel has been designed as a day-to-night destination where dining, design and social experiences sit at the heart of the guest journey. Dining plays a major role in the hotel’s appeal. Sira introduces a Latin American-inspired menu centred around open-fire cooking, while Beni offers speciality coffee and artisanal ice cream in a more relaxed all-day setting. The WET Deck brings Mediterranean flavours to the outdoor poolside space, complete with cabanas and loungers. Later this year, Sahari will join the line-up as an outdoor lounge geared towards performances and late-night socialising.
Where: W Riyadh – KAFD, King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh, 13519
Contact: https://w-hotels.marriott.com
Sunday 24 May
Tour The King Fahad National Library
Delve into the heart of the city and explore the beautiful King Fahd library, a stunning architectural and cultural landmark that acts a testament to Saudi Arabia’s varied and esteemed architectural treasures. This immersive and interactive 2-hour tour will take guests through the King Fahad National Library’s impressive design and vast collections, providing a real appreciation for such a world-class institution.
Where: King Fahad National Library, 6757 King Fahd Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh, 12211
When: Until 30 May 2026
Price: SAR 136
Contact: https://webook.com
Monday 25 May
Shop until you drop at Solitaire
Make like Cardi B did during her recent visit to Riyadh and head to Solitaire. The new lifestyle destination offers a diverse range of experiences, including shopping, dining, entertainment, wellness, and sports. The retail section offers high-end fashion and a dedicated jewellery quarter. The food and beverage section features fine dining, fast food, and a rooftop food hall, including Jon & Vinny’s and the ever-popular Somewhere.
Where: Solitaire, Al Imam Saud Ibn Faysal Road, As Sahafah, Riyadh, 13315
Contact: https://solitaireksa.com
Tuesday 26 May
Make a splash at AquArabia
Now open in Qiddiya City, Aquarabia is billed as the Middle East’s largest water theme park with 22 rides and attractions spread across 250,000 square metres. It is also home to a serious line-up of record breakers, including Junoon Drop, the world’s tallest and longest water coaster, Slithereel, the world’s longest water slide wheel, Speedy Jamezales, the world’s tallest Aqualoop, and Jamal Joom, the world’s longest mat blaster. The park also adds a first for the Kingdom with Surftopia, Saudi Arabia’s first surf pool.
Where: AquArabia, Qiddiya City, Riyadh Province
When: Daily from 12pm to 8pm.
Price: Tickets from SAR 275.
Contact: https://aquarabiaqiddiyacity.com
Wednesday 27 May
Dine at FACT’s Restaurant of the Year
Zuma is a two-floor izakaya located in KAFD. The menu features signature dishes such as Barley Miso Baby Chicken, Miso-marinated Black Cod, and Salt Grilled Seabass. For dessert, an exclusive Ajwa Date & Miso Toffee Cake awaits. The striking design combines stone, wood, and copper, with a dramatic spiral staircase linking the restaurant, robata grill, sushi counter, bar, lounge, and DJ booth. Zuma Riyadh was recently named ‘Restaurant of the Year’ at the FACT Dining Awards Riyadh 2025.
Where: Zuma Riyadh, Metro Boulevard, KAFD, Riyadh, 13519
When: Open daily from 12pm to 1am
Contact: www.zumarestaurant.com
Thursday 28 May
Dine at the FACT favourite Jon & Vinny’s
Jon & Vinny’s is a celebrated Los Angeles-based eatery known for its fresh, flavourful Italian-American cuisine. Now available in Ithra and Jeddah and recognised as a multiple FACT Dining Award winner in Riyadh, it’s loved for its innovative approach to dining, including pizzas and pasta.
Where: Jon & Vinny’s, Turki Ibn Abdullah Al Saud, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh, 12234
When: Open daily 8am to 11:30pm
Contact: @jonandvinnys.ksa
Friday 29 May
Walk the Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge
The Kingdom Centre sky bridge stands at 300 meters, offering unrivalled views across Riyadh. The Kingdom Centre is one of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic landmarks. It has 99 floors and houses the King Abdullah Mosque on the 77th floor, making it the world’s second-highest mosque. It is also home to several local and international luxury brands, including the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, VOX cinemas and exquisite fine-dining restaurants.
Where: Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge, Kingdom Centre, Al Olaya, Riyadh, 12214
When: Open daily from 12pm to 11pm
Price: SAR 115 per person
Contact: https://kingdomcentre.com.sa
Saturday 30 May
Partner Listing: Enjoy a memorable meal at Charcoza
Located on Northern Ring Road in At Taawun, the modern steakhouse blends the warmth of shared mezze with the theatre of wood-fire grilling, clay ovens and Josper flames. The menu moves from premium steaks and wagyu cuts to flame-kissed street food, including wagyu beef shawarma, short-rib tacos and truffle sliders. Starters such as Clay Oven Chicken, Sizzling Lamb and Wagyu Lasagna set the tone for a meal built around bold flavours, generous portions and live kitchen energy. It is a confident spot for business lunches, group dinners and steak lovers.
Where: Charcoza, 8099 Northern Ring Road, At Taawun, Riyadh, 12477
When: Open daily from 12pm to 1am
Contact: https://charcoza.com
Sunday 31 May
Dine like a Londoner at Apple Butter
Apple Butter has brought a taste of London to Riyadh, opening in KAFD as an all-day café-restaurant built for brunches, working lunches and late-afternoon sweet fixes. The menu leans into crowd-pleasing comfort with Truffle Scrambled Eggs served all day, plus mains like Butter Chicken, Prawn Marinara Pasta and a Wagyu Beef Burger. Save room for dessert, where Pistachio Umm Ali and Saffron Milk Cake steal the spotlight. Coffee, tea and mocktails round out the offering. Inside, cosy interiors centre on an Instagrammable apple tree that anchors the room.
Where: Apple Butter, KAFD, Riyadh, 13519
When: Open daily from 8am to midnight
Contact: @applebutter.ksa