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. In October, the capital’s is packed with live music, comedy, sporting spectacles and new dining experiences, alongside the return of Riyadh Fashion Week and the Six Kings Slam. Elsewhere, visitors can race through an augmented-reality world, experience the thrills of Six Flags Qiddiya City or settle in for dinner at some of the city’s most exciting restaurants. Whether you are after culture, cuisine or a little adventure, these are the best things to do in Riyadh this October.
Thursday 1 October
Laugh Along With Tony Abou Jaoude
Start the month with a laugh as Lebanese actor, comedian and television personality Tony Abou Jaoude takes to the stage in Riyadh. Appearing at Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention, the popular entertainer is known for combining physical comedy, sharp observational humour and impressive vocal impressions. Having built a long-standing career across television and live entertainment in the Middle East, Abou Jaoude knows how to command a crowd, moving between characters and everyday observations with ease. Tickets start from SAR 120 per person.
Where: Crowne Plaza – Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention, Wadi Al Muaydin, Riyadh
When: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 9pm
Contact: https://riyadh.platinumlist.net
Friday 2 October
Hear Indira Paganotto at Desert Sounds
Turn up the volume as Desert Sound returns to Riyadh Golf Club for another open-air electronic music experience. Spanish DJ and producer Indira Paganotto headlines the evening, armed with the high-energy sound that has earned her an international following. Her sets move between acid techno, psytrance and influences from 1990s dance music, creating an intense soundtrack designed for the dance floor. Paganotto will be joined by a selection of regional electronic artists, while immersive stage production and the outdoor setting should add to the atmosphere. If your ideal Friday involves big beats and late-night dancing, this should be on the radar. Tickets start from SAR 300.
Where: Riyadh Golf Club, Riyadh
When: Friday, 2 October 2026 at 8pm
Contact: https://riyadh.platinumlist.net
Saturday 3 October
Discover a new culinary chapter at House of Grill
House of Grill at Fairmont Riyadh is entering a new culinary era with a reimagined menu from acclaimed Chef Nicolas Isnard and Executive Chef Valéry Bame. Inspired by the glamour of the Gatsby era, the steakhouse combines live-fire cooking with classical French techniques and premium ingredients. Before the full à la carte offering launches on Sunday 4 October 2026, diners can enjoy a six-course tasting menu showcasing the restaurant’s new direction. With carefully sourced cuts, seasonal produce and a theatrical approach to the grill, the experience makes a compelling choice for a celebratory weekend dinner. The six-course tasting menu is priced at SAR 355 per person.
Where: House of Grill, Fairmont Riyadh, Business Gate, Qurtubah, Riyadh
When: Tasting menu available until 3 October 2026
Contact: www.fairmont.com
Sunday 4 October
Catch Fontana Circus at Al Nakheel Mall
Running away to the circus has never been easier. Cirque du Liban’s Fontana Circus continues its Riyadh residency near Al Nakheel Mall, combining spectacular water features with traditional circus thrills. Billed as the Middle East’s first travelling water circus, the production centres around a choreographed musical fountain, accompanied by aerial acrobatics, trapeze routines, motorcycle stunts, illusions, drumming and operatic performances. Dramatic lighting and synchronised water displays add another visual dimension to the production, while an international cast keeps the action moving at a rapid pace. Suitable for families and audiences of all ages, Fontana Circus continues in Riyadh until 17 October 2026. Tickets start from SAR 110.
Where: Fontana, Al Nakheel Mall, Al Mughrizat, Riyadh
When: Daily until 17 October 2026
Contact: https://riyadh.platinumlist.net
Monday 5 October
Celebrate five years of LPM Riyadh
La Petite Maison Riyadh is celebrating five years in the Saudi capital with Riviera Reverie, an evening inspired by the carefree glamour of the Côte d’Azur. The anniversary celebration combines the restaurant’s signature French-Mediterranean cuisine with music from a live DJ, troubadours and colourful floral installations. The familiar tablescape of tomatoes, lemons and olive oil will naturally remain part of the experience. Guests can also explore creations from the Déjà Vu mocktail menu or finish with the exclusive Tomatini Sorbet. It is a fitting celebration for the FACT award-winning restaurant.
Where: La Petite Maison Riyadh, Al Motassem Street, Al Olaya, Riyadh
When: Monday, 5 October 2026
Contact: https://lpmrestaurants.com
Tuesday 6 October
Savour Alba white truffles at Cipriani Dolci
One of the culinary world’s most prized ingredients has arrived in Riyadh. Cipriani Dolci in the Diplomatic Quarter is celebrating white truffle season with a menu dedicated to the aromatic delicacy. Imported fresh from Alba in northern Italy, the truffles are shaved generously across familiar Cipriani favourites and Italian classics. Dishes include Homemade Tagliolini, Creamy Burrata, Carpaccio, Pizza with Burrata and Veal Piccatine, allowing the earthy aroma of the truffle to take centre stage. Even dessert gets involved, with Vanilla Ice Cream topped with fresh white truffle. The seasonal menu runs from October until January 2027, although dishes remain subject to truffle availability.
Where: Cipriani Dolci, Diplomatic Quarter Al Safarat, Riyadh
When: Daily from 8am to midnight
Contact: www.cipriani.com
Wednesday 7 October
Partner Listing: Taste local ingredients at Table;to
Riyadh’s local pantry meets Asian culinary techniques at Table;to, where Chef Ali Abdulmajeed has created a menu designed for sharing. Saudi ingredients such as Hasawi loomi, Shaqra chilli, Madinah mint, tahina and date molasses are paired with miso, soy and yuzu, while fire, fermentation and slow cooking create layers of flavour. Start with the Oh Oh Tuna Crispy Rice and Shaqra shrimp before sharing the 48-hour marinated chicken or a mushroom rice clay pot. For dessert, the sticky date pudding offers a suitably indulgent finish.
Where: Table;to, Al Takhassousi, An Nakheel, Riyadh
When: Daily from 12pm to midnight
Contact: @tabl.to
Thursday 8 October
Laugh out loud with Ahmed Amin
Egyptian actor and comedian Ahmed Amin takes centre stage at InterContinental Riyadh for a one-night-only stand-up show. Known across the Arab world for his television work and popular digital series, Amin has built a loyal following through observational comedy that finds humour in everyday situations. His live performances combine relatable anecdotes, clever social commentary and an understated delivery that has made him one of the region’s recognisable comedy personalities. Tickets start from SAR 300.
Where: InterContinental Riyadh, King Saud Road, Al Mutamarat, Riyadh
When: Thursday, 8 October 2026 at 9pm
Contact: https://riyadh.platinumlist.net
Friday 9 October
Dance the night away at IN ACT
An underground electronic music night from IN ACT takes over Plot K in the creative JAX District for an all-night journey through cutting-edge sound. The event features a high-octane line-up headlined by international techno artist Innellea, melodic house producer Rafael Cerato and local Saudi favourites Dish Dash, alongside Elfuego and Dr.T. Built around the sound and designed around the experience, the night brings high-energy moments to life with an immersive audio-visual production, custom sound design and a crowd that knows exactly why it is there. Tickets from SAR 250 per person.
Where: Plot K, JAX District, Diriyah, Riyadh
When: Friday 9 October 2026 from 6pm
Contact: https://riyadh.platinumlist.net
Saturday 10 October
Partner Listing: Enjoy a catch-up at Buttermilk
Weekends are made for long breakfasts and leisurely catch-ups, and Buttermilk provides an easygoing setting for both. Located in Al Mohammadiyyah, the restaurant is designed around relaxed gatherings, whether that means breakfast with friends, a family meal, or simply taking time over coffee. The welcoming interiors and approachable menu make it suitable for groups with different tastes, while the all-day opening hours mean there is no need to rush out of bed. For a slower Saturday in Riyadh, grab a table, order generously and settle in.
Where: Buttermilk, Juwairiyah Bint Al Harith, Al Mohammadiyyah, Riyadh
When: Daily from 7am to 11.30pm
Contact: @buttermilk.sa
Sunday 11 October
Browse fine jewellery at Jewels of the World
Diamonds are calling as Jewels of the World returns to Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah for its autumn edition. The prestigious showcase gathers around 100 international jewellery houses under one roof, with De Beers, David Morris, Chatila and Pasquale Bruni among the featured names. Visitors can browse rare high jewellery, bespoke bridal pieces, statement designs and exceptional watches while discovering trends from established maisons and emerging designers. Whether you are shopping for a special occasion, adding to a collection or simply admiring some serious sparkle, the exhibition offers a concentrated look at global jewellery craftsmanship in the heart of Riyadh.
Where: Jewels of the World, Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah, Al Olaya, Riyadh
When: 11 to 15 October 2026 from 4pm to 11pm
Contact: https://jowsaudi.com
Monday 12 October
Groove and dine at The Vinyl Ember
Dinner comes with a soundtrack at The Vinyl Ember, the atmospheric restaurant inside Kimpton KAFD Riyadh. Combining open-fire cooking with a passion for vinyl, the concept pairs elevated American grill classics with carefully curated music for an experience that appeals to more than just the taste buds. Take a seat at the chef’s counter for a closer look at the action, where steaks hit the grill and skillet-seared dishes are prepared over flame. Creative mocktails and a soundtrack selected to match the restaurant’s mood complement the food. For a Monday night that feels anything but routine, The Vinyl Ember hits the right note.
Where: The Vinyl Ember, Kimpton KAFD Riyadh, Riyadh
When: Daily from 5.30pm to 1am
Contact: www.thevinylember.com
Tuesday 13 October
Partner Listing: Discover Chotto Matte’s New Menu
Chotto Matte Riyadh is giving diners another reason to return this October with the launch of a new Nikkei menu. The FACT award-winning restaurant draws inspiration from Japan, Peru and the Amazon, combining distinctive flavours with premium ingredients and theatrical presentation. Known for its energetic atmosphere and contemporary take on Nikkei cuisine, Chotto Matte offers a memorable meal through bold plates designed for sharing. Whether returning for a favourite or discovering the venue for the first time, October offers the perfect opportunity to visit.
Where: Chotto Matte, Innovation Boulevard, KAFD, Riyadh
When: Daily from 12pm to 1am
Contact: https://chotto-matte.com
Wednesday 14 October
Race through a virtual world at BattleKart
Part go-kart track and part video game, BattleKart turns racing into an immersive digital competition. The Riyadh attraction combines real electric go-karts with augmented-reality technology, projecting interactive courses directly onto the arena floor. Drivers race physical karts while collecting virtual bonuses, avoiding digital obstacles and firing rockets at their opponents. Different game modes include BattleRace and BattleSnake, adding new challenges each time you climb behind the wheel. With no headset required, the technology transforms the entire track into a giant multiplayer game that feels somewhere between Mario Kart and real-world racing. Sessions start from SAR 120 per person.
Where: BattleKart Riyadh, Ishbiliyah, Riyadh
When: Daily from 12pm to midnight
Contact: www.battlekart.com
Thursday 15 October
Catch Alaa El Sheikh live
Stand-up comedian Alaa El Sheikh heads to Riyadh for an evening of sharp observations and relatable laughs. The comedian has attracted a sizeable following across the Middle East through viral digital content and social satire, often finding the funny side of modern relationships, regional culture and the challenges of adult life. His live shows add another dimension through crowd interaction, quick responses and stories that frequently hit close to home. Tickets start from SAR 175.
Where: Literary Club Riyadh, Abdullah Al Hamathani Street, Al Malaz, Riyadh
When: Thursday, 15 October 2026 at 9pm
Contact: https://riyadh.platinumlist.net
Friday 16 October
Experience the thrill of Riyadh Racing Season
The thunder of hooves returns to King Abdulaziz Racecourse as the Riyadh Racing Season begins its 2026-2027 season. The new season features 50 race days, with meetings taking place every Friday and Saturday and significant prize money attracting leading horses, jockeys and trainers. The racecourse offers landscaped viewing areas, lounges and trackside dining, turning an evening at the races into a stylish social occasion. Whether you follow the form closely or simply want to experience the atmosphere of live horse racing, opening weekend provides an ideal introduction to one of Riyadh’s most established sporting traditions.
Where: Riyadh Racing Season, King Abdulaziz Racecourse, Riyadh
When: From Friday, 16 October 2026
Contact: https://webook.com
Saturday 17 October
Feel the thrills at Six Flags Qiddiya City
Rollercoaster fans should make a beeline for Six Flags Qiddiya City. Located against the dramatic backdrop of the Tuwaiq Mountains, approximately 40 minutes from central Riyadh, the theme park features 28 rides and attractions spread across six themed lands. Its headline attraction is Falcon’s Flight, billed as the world’s tallest, fastest and longest rollercoaster, reaching speeds of up to 250km/h. Those looking to cool down can also visit the neighbouring Aquarabia water park, although a separate ticket is required. With everything from high-speed thrills to family-friendly attractions, Six Flags Qiddiya City offers an action-packed escape from the capital. Tickets start from SAR 325.
Where: Six Flags Qiddiya City, Qiddiya City, Riyadh Province
When: Wednesday to Sunday from 4pm to midnight
Contact: https://sixflagsqiddiyacity.com
Sunday 18 October
Watch the runways at Riyadh Fashion Week
Riyadh Fashion Week returns for its fourth edition, placing Saudi style firmly in the spotlight. Organised by the Saudi Fashion Commission under the Ministry of Culture, the multi-day event showcases designers from the Kingdom and wider region through runway shows, presentations and showroom activations. Collections span couture, ready-to-wear and contemporary fashion, while architectural spaces across Riyadh provide striking backdrops for the programme. Beyond the front row, the event highlights the rapid evolution of Saudi Arabia’s fashion industry and the designers shaping its identity, often combining traditional craftsmanship with contemporary silhouettes. Fashion fans should keep an eye on the schedule as the city becomes one big runway.
Where: Various locations across Riyadh
When: 15 to 20 October 2026
Contact: @riyadhfashionweek
Monday 19 October
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
Tuesday 20 October
Catch a movie at Renaissance Cinema
For the most luxurious cinema experience in Riyadh, book The Renaissance at VIA Riyadh. Operated by VOX Cinemas, the boutique venue offers a private, high-end alternative to the traditional multiplex, with seven distinctive screening rooms, including Wall Street, Tuwaiq, Oasis, Avant Garde, Orient Express, Secret Garden and Interstellar. Designed around privacy, comfort and spectacle, each cinema pairs plush interiors with advanced audiovisual technology and a curated dining experience. Guests can book private screenings for family, friends or special occasions, turning a night at the movies into a fully tailored social event. With its theatrical design, premium service and VIA Riyadh setting, The Renaissance is Riyadh cinema at its most glamorous.
Where: Renaissance Cinema, VIA Riyadh, Al Hada, Riyadh
When: Open daily from 12pm to 6am
Contact: https://ksa.voxcinemas.com
Wednesday 21 October
Watch the world’s best at Six Kings Slam
Some of the biggest names in men’s tennis descend on Riyadh as the Six Kings Slam returns to ANB Arena for its third edition. Two-time defending champion Jannik Sinner headlines the six-player field alongside Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, Alexander Zverev, Taylor Fritz and Alex de Minaur. The stars will compete in a high-stakes single-elimination format, placing blockbuster matches at the centre of the action. Away from the court, the arena grounds will feature interactive fan zones, food pop-ups and live entertainment, creating a broader festival atmosphere.
Where: ANB Arena, Hittin, Riyadh
When: 21 to 24 October 2026
Contact: https://sixkingstickets.com
Thursday 22 October
Relate to the laughs with John Achkar
Lebanese comedian John Achkar returns to the stage with Feena Nehke? (Can We Talk?), an Arabic stand-up show that turns everyday anxieties into comedy. As one of his most personal productions, the show explores identity, family relationships, faith and the social conventions that shape daily life. Achkar’s candid storytelling and observational humour allow him to tackle bigger themes without losing sight of the laughs, resulting in material that is both personal and widely relatable. Following performances across the region and beyond, the comedian now heads to Riyadh for a night of sharp humour and cultural observations. Tickets start from SAR 200 per person.
Where: Riyadh Schools Theater, An Namudhajiyah, Riyadh
When: Thursday, 22 October 2026 at 7:30pm
Contact: https://riyadh.platinumlist.net
Friday 23 October
Master the art of butterfly preservation
Try something completely different with The Art of Butterfly Preservation at FoodSphere. Led by nature-inspired artist Khalid AlSowayan, the hands-on workshop begins with a visit to the Butterfly Dome, where participants learn about the lifecycle and characteristics of butterflies. The session then moves into the delicate preservation process, covering specimen preparation, pinning techniques, wing positioning and framing. Participants will work with real specimens and receive the materials needed to create a framed butterfly display to take home. Tickets cost SAR 185 per person.
Where: FoodSphere, Prince Muhammad Ibn Abd Al Aziz Road, Riyadh
When: 21 to 28 October 2026 from 6pm to 8pm
Contact: www.riyadhoases.com
Saturday 24 October
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.
Contact: https://aquarabiaqiddiyacity.com
Sunday 25 October
Taste Hejazi flavours at Taleed by Michael Mina
Saudi flavours receive a contemporary interpretation at Taleed by Michael Mina inside Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Diriyah. The restaurant draws inspiration from Hejazi cuisine while applying modern techniques and unexpected ingredients to familiar regional flavours. Start with whipped hummus with foie gras, Jeddah Red Sea lobster salad or kataifi-wrapped tiger prawns before moving on to Atlantic lobster kabsa or charcoal-grilled baby chicken served with truffled saleeg rice. The setting in historic Diriyah adds another layer to the experience, making Taleed an appealing choice for visitors looking to explore Saudi culinary traditions through a modern lens. Come hungry, because the menu is designed to tempt.
Where: Taleed by Michael Mina, Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah, Riyadh
When: Sunday to Friday from 6.30pm to 11.30pm
Contact: www.taleeddiriyah.com
Monday 26 October
Dine at Carbone Riyadh
Carbone Riyadh has revealed its new sharing-style menu. The early-evening dining experience introduces a more accessible way to enjoy the FACT award-winning restaurant, extending its offerings beyond traditional fine dining into a more informal, social setting. Enjoy a selection of antipasti and salads, including Shrimp Cocktail with poached red prawns and cocktail sauce, Carpaccio Piemontese with tenderloin, walnuts, and cremini mushrooms, and black truffle dressing. The menu features Carbone’s celebrated pasta selection, spanning angel hair with fresh chillies, garlic and peppercorn, to their world-famous Spicy Tigatoni, followed by desserts such as Carrot Cake or Lemon Cheesecake.
Where: Carbone Riyadh, Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel.
When: Available daily from 5pm to 8pm
Price: SAR 249 per person.
Contact: www.sevenrooms.com
Tuesday 27 October
Feast on Italian-American Favourites at Jon & Vinny’s
For laid-back Italian-American comfort food, the FACT award winning Jon & Vinny’s Al-Dabab remains a reliable Riyadh favourite. Born in Los Angeles, the restaurant from chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a relaxed setting, with pizzas, pastas and indulgent classics dominating the menu. Start with Mozzarella Sticks before moving onto the Spicy Fusilli with basil and Parmigiano Reggiano, six-hour Beef Bolognese or the L.A. Woman pizza topped with local burrata, tomato and basil. Those visiting earlier can tuck into pancakes, avocado toast or Breakfast Pizza 2.0, while soft serve and New York Cheesecake provide a suitably sweet finish.
Where: Jon & Vinny’s, Turki Ibn Abdullah Al Saud, As Sulimaniyah, Riyadh, 12234
When: Open daily 8am to 11:30pm
Contact: @jonandvinnys.ksa
Wednesday 28 October
Book one of just 10 seats at Julien
With just 10 seats, Julien offers one of Riyadh’s most intimate dining experiences. Hidden behind Café Boulud at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, Daniel Boulud’s fine-dining room centres around a marble chef’s counter overlooking the open kitchen. Chef Thierry Motsch leads the experience, serving a multi-course seasonal tasting menu conceptualised by Boulud. Guests reach the restaurant through a private passageway lined with an artisanal bakery and cellar before taking their seats directly in front of the culinary action. The tiny capacity makes every service feel personal, while the counter format offers diners a close-up look at the techniques behind each course. Reservations are essential.
Where: Julien, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre, Al Olaya, Riyadh
When: Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7pm to 10pm
Contact: fourseasons.com
Thursday 29 October
Be mesmerised by Marilyne Naaman live
Lebanese singer and actress Marilyne Naaman heads to Teatro Riyadh for a one-night-only concert. Known for her emotive vocals and theatrical performance style, Naaman has cultivated a growing following with music that combines contemporary influences with the traditions of Arabic songwriting. The Riyadh concert will feature a selection of her own tracks alongside classic regional covers, supported by live musical arrangements that place her voice at the centre of the evening. Taking place inside Teatro Riyadh, the performance offers a more intimate alternative to the capital’s arena-sized concerts and an opportunity to experience one of Lebanon’s rising musical talents live. Tickets start from SAR 395 per person.
Where: Teatro Riyadh, Ghirnatah, Riyadh
When: Thursday 29 October 2026 at 7:30pm
Contact: https://riyadh.platinumlist.net
Friday 30 October
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
Saturday 31 October
Dine at Berenjak Riyadh
Berenjak brings London-born Persian dining to VIA Riyadh, marking the brand’s first permanent restaurant in Saudi Arabia. Inspired by the bustling kabab houses of Tehran, the restaurant is known for charcoal-grilled kebabs, fragrant rice, generous mazeh and a lively, shared-table atmosphere. Expect signature dishes rooted in founder Kian Samyani’s family recipes, with bold spices, open-fire cooking and the comforting flavours that helped Berenjak earn a Michelin Bib Gourmand in London and a FACT Dining Award in Dubai. As one of the hottest new Riyadh restaurants right now, this outpost feels right at home among VIA Riyadh’s destination dining scene, offering a warm, stylish spot for casual dinners, group gatherings and flame-led feasts.
Where: Berenjak, VIA Riyadh, Makkah Al Mukarramah Road, Al Hada, Riyadh
When: Open daily from 6pm to midnight
Contact: @berenjak.ksa