The highly anticipated Riyadh Season 2024 will return for the fifth time from 12 October 2024. It will feature major events, all-new zones and exciting entertainment areas.
The season launches with a major main event between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev. It is expected to be an incredible experience.
What is Riyadh Season?
Let’s start by answering your biggest question:
Riyadh Season is one of the largest annual festivals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and has been a significant cultural and entertainment event since its inception in 2019 as part of the Saudi Seasons initiative.
This vibrant festival promotes tourism, culture, and entertainment while transforming Riyadh into a global cultural hub.
The season showcases Saudi culture and heritage while highlighting the city's modernisation and cultural diversity. It attracts millions of visitors from across the Kingdom and beyond, with projections for 10-12 million attendees, including around 1 million international visitors for the upcoming season.
This initiative aligns with Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman's Vision 2030, reflecting Saudi Arabia's commitment to a forward-thinking future and promoting tourism.
The excitement surrounding Riyadh Season has only grown, especially with high-profile events and celebrity appearances, including notable figures like Cristiano Ronaldo, who was previously announced as an ambassador.
When is Riyadh Season?
The fifth season is set to begin on 12 October 2024 and will run until May 2025.
Riyadh Season Opening Ceremony 2024
The First Start will be with IV Crown Showdown: Beterbiev vs Bivol:
This light heavyweight title fight will headline the opening ceremony on 12 October 2024, marking the start of the season. This event will not only be a major highlight for sports fans but will also set the tone for the diverse entertainment line-up that Riyadh 2024 has in store.
Date: Opening Ceremony will take place on 12 October 2024
Tickets: From 100 SAR Per person
The main fight: The main event is a highly anticipated boxing bout between Artur Beterbiev (IBF, WBC and WBO light heavyweight champion) and Dmitry Bivol (WBA champion).
The stakes: Both boxers are undefeated champions, making this fight a major event in the world of boxing, with the light heavyweight titles on the line.
Venue and audience: The event will take place at the expanded Kingdom Arena, which has a capacity of more than 27,000 spectators, ensuring a large crowd on opening night
Boulevard City - Riyadh Season 2024-2025
One of the main attractions of Riyadh Season 2024-2025, Boulevard City is one of the festival's largest and most energetic entertainment zones. Known for its mix of cultural experiences, diverse cuisine and lively shows, Boulevard City has expanded 70 per cent this season, offering a dizzying array of new activities. Located in the Hittin neighbourhood, it offers visitors a dynamic mix of themed gardens, dancing fountains and shopping options featuring some of the world's most renowned brands.
1. Expansion & More Attractions
70% larger this season, offering 40 new activities, making it the most diverse entertainment zone in Riyadh Season.
Includes gardens, a dancing fountain, and theatres for concerts and performances.
2. Entertainment Options
12 plays and several comedy shows, with prominent performers like Karim Abdel Aziz, Ahmed Helmy, and Martin Lawrence.
More than 10 concerts are set to take place, appealing to a wide range of audiences.
Hans Zimmer is scheduled for a major live performance.
3. Dining & Shopping
There is a wide variety of dining options, with 25 local and international restaurants. These cater to various tastes, from high-end restaurants to cafes.
Shops feature famous global brands, offering a premium shopping experience.
4. Special Experiences
The Warner Bros. "Harry Potter" experience and the largest pop-up retail space add a magical experience to the zone.
A massive dinosaur exhibition with towering models up to 20 metres tall.
Gaming areas dedicated to e-sports and interactive gaming, such as PUBG Mobile and Five Nights at Freddy’s.
5. Family-Friendly Experiences
"Land of the Dreams", featuring beloved characters like Bluey and Friends, is designed to entertain children.
Detective Conan Experience and other anime-inspired events attract fans of all ages.
6. Cultural & Artistic Performances
Theatres and open-air performances offer a wide range of shows, from artistic productions to roaming performers.
Interactive exhibits like the CR7 Signature Museum celebrate the legacy of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Celebrate the world at Al Suwaidi Park - Riyadh Season 2024
Al Suwaidi Park is set to be a cultural attraction during Riyadh Season 2024-2025, offering visitors a unique journey through the traditions of eight different countries. Over 45 days, the park will host week-long cultural festivals, showcasing traditional food, music, dance and crafts from countries such as India, Egypt and the Philippines. With free entry, family-friendly rides and immersive experiences, it is the perfect destination for cultural exploration and entertainment.
Cultural festivals:
The park will host cultural festivals from nine countries: Pakistan, India, the Philippines, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Yemen, Jordan, Levant, Egypt and Sudan.
Each country will be showcased for one week, showcasing traditional foods, music, folk dances and handicrafts.
Duration: The park will be open for 49 days, starting from 13 October 2024, and will operate daily from 4:00 pm to 12:00 am.
Admission is free: Al Suwaidi Park is a free zone, but tickets may be required for specific activities or events, which can be booked through the Riyadh Season platform.
Family-friendly entertainment: Carnival rides and carnival games are available for all ages, as well as special areas such as the Colour Oasis which features climbing and interactive fun for children.
Immerse yourself in culture: Visitors can explore the arts, crafts and traditional customs of each country, creating an immersive learning experience.
Al Suwaidi Park offers a unique blend of entertainment, culture and adventure, making it a key destination in the Riyadh season.
Also Read: Best places to visit in Riyadh 2024
Dunes of Arabica: A Desert Adventure Awaits in Riyadh Season 2024-2025
Immerse yourself in the enchanting Arabian desert with thrilling dune bashing, stargazing and traditional camping, starting in January 2025.
Opening Date: The Dunes of Arabica will open on January 1, 2025
Desert-Themed Experience: This immersive zone focuses on the beauty of the Saudi Arabian desert, offering visitors an authentic experience of desert culture.
Adventure Activities:
Dune buggy rides and drifting for thrill-seekers.
Traditional desert camping and stargazing experience.
Cultural Immersion: Visitors will be able to explore the rich traditions of Saudi Arabia in a desert setting.
Perfect for Outdoor Enthusiasts: Dunes of Arabica caters to those who love the outdoors and want to enjoy a mix of adventure and culture.
Riyadh Zoo: Wildlife Wonders in Riyadh Season 2025
Riyadh Zoo will be a highlight of the 2024-2025 Riyadh Season, offering an expanded and exciting experience for visitors. The family-friendly attraction will feature more than 1,300 animals from 190 species, including a rare red panda that made its debut in the Middle East during last year's season.
The Vampire Hotel 2024 - 2025
The Vampire Hotel is one of the exciting new attractions launching on October 13, 2024, as part of Riyadh Season 2024.
The location: World Boulevard, the largest and most ambitious area in Riyadh Season, will host the Vampire Hotel. This area offers a multitude of entertainment options, and the Vampire Hotel is one of its most anticipated new attractions.
Theme and experience: Visitors will be immersed in a creepy and spooky gothic atmosphere as they interact with Dracula and his family. The experience is designed to be exciting and entertaining, blending horror and fun.
This game is perfect for horror fans looking for an action-packed experience. It is family-friendly but designed to provide chills and thrills
Line Up Comedy Show
Now in its fifth edition, Riyadh Season 2024 presents an exciting line-up of comedy shows catering to fans of stand-up comedy and humour.
1. Martin Lawrence Comedy Show
Martin Lawrence, best known for his roles in Bad Boys and stand-up comedy, will headline with his signature humour and social satire
Dates: October 18 and 19, 2024.
Location: Boulevard City.
WWE Experience: Wrestling Legends
WWE Experience: Legends of Wrestling is one of the highlights of the Riyadh 2024 season, starting on 16 February and running until the end of the year. Taking place at Riyadh City Boulevard, the experience is tailor-made for fans of wrestling entertainment to provide an interactive experience that simulates the atmosphere of a real wrestling show.
Features of the game:
Legendary wrestler characters: The game includes a large list of wrestlers who are considered icons in the world of wrestling. Hulk Hogan, The Undertaker, Steve Austin, The Rock, Shawn Michaels and other memorable names. This gives players a sense of excitement as they wrestle their favourite heroes.
Multiple stages and game modes: The game has several modes of play, whether you prefer solo, team, or even long tournaments. There are also special modes that simulate historical matches with added excitement and effects that make each match more realistic.
Design and art style: The game relies on a fun design that combines realistic and cartoony graphics, which adds a light and entertaining touch and enhances the interactive gameplay experience with exaggerated effects for combat moves and matches.
Famous moves: The game features iconic moves made famous by wrestlers throughout their WWE history, such as Steve Austin's Stone Cold Stunner and The Rock's Rock Bottom. Players can master these moves and execute them with perfect timing to win matches.
Multiplayer Mode: The game offers both local and online multiplayer options, allowing players to compete with their friends or with players from around the world.
Suggested Read: New Year's Eve in Saudi Arabia: A Complete Guide
Battle of the Titans: Saudi Arabia's biggest MMA event
Set to take place on 19 October 2024, Battle of the Giants is set to be one of Saudi Arabia's premier mixed martial arts (MMA) events featuring top fighters from around the world. The main event will see Cameroonian heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou take on Brazilian Renan Ferreira for the UFC heavyweight title at the Meydan Arena in Riyadh.
The event comes as part of Saudi Arabia's endeavours to host global sporting events and strengthen its position as a major player in the international sporting arena, in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 initiative. Fans can purchase tickets through platforms such as WeBook, with prices starting from SAR 300, with multiple seating options available to cater for all preferences.
The fifth edition of Riyadh Season 2024: exciting music and theatre events!
Top tips to make your Riyadh 2024 experience unforgettable:
Plan: Check the events calendar and book tickets early for popular concerts and shows
Explore the cultural districts: Don't miss Al Suwaidi Park, which showcases the cultures of nine countries through food, music and crafts
Arrive early: Go to major attractions like Boulevard City early to enjoy shows and interactive experiences before the crowds arrive
Experience one-of-a-kind experiences: Take part in special attractions such as the Harry Potter Fair and adventure rides in different zones
Savour international cuisine: Enjoy a variety of dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants and themed cafes
Stay hydrated and comfortable: Riyadh can be warm, so dress comfortably and take a break in shaded areas
Capture the moments: Bring a camera to capture the beauty of events such as dancing fountains and cultural festivals
Check out the free zones: Explore free admission areas such as Al Suwaidi Park and Al Awaleen Souk
Following these tips will help you enjoy the best of Riyadh Season!
Recommended Read: Best Things to Do in Riyadh 2025
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