The best things to do in Riyadh move indoors during the month of May, as the capital pushes firmly into its hotter months, and the city’s calendar moves accordingly. Mornings and evenings open up for outdoor exploration, while the hotter hours of the day are where Riyadh’s indoor scene earns its place. Riyadh’s ever evolving landscape allows for a refreshing roster of new things to do every month. Whether it’s exclusive dining experiences and wellness retreats or cultural discoveries and curated staycation offers, Riyadh is a destination that meets no limit.
Whether the plan is to spend time at the table, step into a cultural space, or simply slow down somewhere comfortable, May presents a well-considered mix of options that reflects Riyadh’s growing confidence as a city that exceeds expectations.
May 1 – 7
Comedy Lab Show at Bakr Al Shaddi
Experience a vibrant blend of stand-up comedy, sharp improv, and laugh-out-loud audience interaction, performed by a talented group of comedians. Each show is shaped by the room’s energy, delivering spontaneous moments, quick wit, and jokes sparked directly by the crowd. No two performances are ever the same, whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming back for more, every night offers a fresh, unpredictable comedic experience. Don’t miss the chance to be part of the laughter.
SAR 100, 1 May, 8:30PM onwards, Bakr Al-Shadi Theater, QJ94+MF Hittin, Riyadh, riyadh.platinumlist.net
Desert Sound 5th Anniversary in Riyadh
Get ready for a night shaped by music, atmosphere, and standout production as Desert Sound arrives in Riyadh. With a curated lineup and a setting designed to elevate every moment, the experience brings together sound and visuals in a way that keeps the energy building from start to finish. On 1st May, Desert Sound will be closing their 5th chapter with the legendary Giorgia Anguili, 19:26, BKR and Mario Basha. Plan your night and grab the final chance to witness the greatness of Desert Sound in Riyadh.
SAR 300, 1 May, 8PM onwards, Riyadh Golf Club, King Abdulaziz Rd, Al Aarid, Riyadh 13352, riyadh.platinumlist.net
Musical Night with Ons BouKettaya
Get ready for a special evening with the professional singer Ons BouKettaya, as she takes the stage on the 1st of May, accompanied by a refined oriental band. Ons will perform a selection of their nation’s most beloved tunes, featuring timeless classics by Umm Kulthum, Warda, Abadi Al Johar, and other artists. With her expressive voice and elegant presence, she brings a unique touch to every performance. Save the date for a special night of reminiscence.
SAR 99, 1 May, 8:30PM onwards, King Saud University, Riyadh 12372, riyadh.platinumlist.net, +966 54 751 5179
Experience an exclusive 6 Hands Dinner at Café Boulud
Café Boulud Riyadh will host an exclusive ‘6 Hands Dinner’ on May 1 and 2, bringing together three chefs for an exclusive two-evening dining experience. The dinner will be led by Thierry Motsch, chef de cuisine at Café Boulud and Julien by Daniel Boulud, alongside guest chefs Ruba Khoury and Ahlam Alsharief. The menu has been developed around classical French technique, contemporary cooking and regional influence.
SAR 499 per person, 1 May & 2 May, 6PM – 11:30PM, Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh At Kingdom Center, Kingdom Centre, Olaya St, Al Olaya, Riyadh 11321, @cafebouludriy
Alaa Abu Diab’s Stand Up Comedy Show
For the first time in Saudi Arabia, Kalam Fadi Comedy Club presents Alaa Abu Diab at Sard Cultural Center. He’s taking the stage with his hit special, “Virtual Reality,” to overthink all those weird, random details of our lives so we don’t have to, basically making sense of the chaos one joke at a time. Join in for a night of Alaa quick quips, witty charms and eagle eye observations that fills the room with laughs.
SAR 200, 7 May, Sard Cultural Centre, King Saud University, Riyadh 12372, riyadh.platinumlist.net, +966 50 800 9173
Disco Misr Album Launch
Disco Misr are bringing the party to Riyadh. The Egyptian electronic trio will take over JAX District for the Riyadh stop of their 10/10 Album Tour. Known for turning Arabic classics into dance floor-ready edits, Disco Misr have carved out a distinctive space in the region’s electronic music scene. The group’s sound combines funk, disco and familiar melodies, giving nostalgic tracks a fresh club-ready finish.
SAR 200, 7 May, 9PM onwards, Plot K, JAX District, Al Diriyah Al Jadidah, Riyadh 13732, riyadh.platinumlist.net
May 8 – 16
Stand Up Comedy with Boosh Bashasha
Get ready for a night of nonstop laughs with Sudanese comedy sensation Boosh Bshasha. Witness as he makes his way to present his hit stand-up special “Talking Stages.” Presented by Kalam Fadi, this show brings Boosh’s signature mix of sharp wit, hilarious storytelling, and brutally relatable observations about life, culture, and everything in between. From awkward everyday moments to wild social situations, Boosh takes the stage and turns real-life chaos into comedy. Come early, grab a seat, and get ready to laugh harder than expected.
SAR 200, 8 May, 9:30PM onwards, Literary Club in Riyadh, 6710 Abdullah Al Hamathani St, Al Malaz, Riyadh 12836, riyadh.platinumlist.net, +966 11 478 7327
IN ACT presents Carl Cox & Dish Dash
IN ACT movement is back with immersive production and relentless sound in the heart of Riyadh. Get caught in the rhythm of a night that won’t let go. Act VIII of this electric event brings world famous names such as Carl Cox and Dish Dash to Riyadh to shower the crowd with their masterful talent. Grab tickets now and get the chance to experience a show of a lifetime in Riyadh.
SAR 350, 8 May, 5PM onwards, Plot K, JAX District, Al Diriyah Al Jadidah, Riyadh 13732, riyadh.platinumlist.net
Escape with luxury at W Riyadh KAFD
Anchored in the heart of Riyadh’s ultra-modern KAFD, W Riyadh – KAFD marks the brand’s bold debut in the Kingdom. Designed for a new generation of global tastemakers, W Riyadh – KAFD captures the city’s dynamic energy through a distinctly elevated lens. W Riyadh features state of the art facilities such as spa, gyms and pools. It is also home to four globally acclaimed restaurants and dining experiences. With 210 impeccably styled rooms and suites, immersive culinary destinations, and spaces designed to spark connection and conversation, W Riyadh – KAFD invites guests to experience the capital in an entirely new rhythm.
Street, Financial District, Area 1 Al Aqeeq, Riyadh 13519, marriott.com, +966 11 437 6000
Momos brings the Trauma Tour to Riyadh
Get ready for a night of raw, unfiltered comedy with Momos live in Riyadh. Presented by Kalam Fadi, “Trauma Tour” is not your typical stand-up show, it’s a brutally honest, wildly funny ride through life’s chaos, awkward moments, and the kind of trauma we all pretend we don’t have. With his sharp delivery and fearless storytelling, Momos turns real-life struggles into laugh-out-loud moments you won’t forget.
SAR 200, 15 May, 9:30PM, Literary Club in Riyadh, 6710 Abdullah Al Hamathani St, Al Malaz, Riyadh 12836, riyadh.platinumlist.net
Salaseh’s Stand up comedy show Vol III
Riyadh, get ready for triple the chaos, triple the energy and triple the laughs. Salaseh Comedy, the viral trio taking over the Arab stand-up scene, bring together Abdulla Sbieh, Saif Zaghmouri, and Yusef Bataineh for a show that’s bold, unpredictable, and way too real. Three comedians, three completely different personalities, one wild show. From everyday struggles to cultural moments we all secretly relate to, they deliver fast-paced storytelling, sharp humor, and nonstop interaction that keeps you hooked from start to finish.
SAR 120, 15 May, 9PM onwards, Bakr Al-Shadi Theater, QJ94+MF Hittin, Riyadh, riyadh.platinumlist.net
May 17 – 24
Enjoy an Urban Retreat at Edge Riyadh Al Rabie by Rotana
Set within the dynamic Al Rabie district, Edge Riyadh Al Rabie by Rotana is envisioned as a calm and contemporary address. A place where understated elegance complements the energy of the city, maintaining its urban retreat essence. Close to shops, business hubs and key attractions, it’s ideal for both work and leisure stays. The hotel offers 71 modern rooms and suites and vibrant dining venues. Guests can enjoy spots including Bistro & Co, Bistro Lounge and The Alley sports bar, plus 24/7 in-room dining. Guests can also enjoy Bodylines Fitness & Wellness Club, eight tech-ready meeting rooms, and a grand ballroom for weddings and major events.
691 Al Thoumamah Rd, 3914, Riyadh 13315, rotana.com, +966 11 250 9222
Enjoy a decadent Lunch at Gymkhana
With a nod to British Indian culture and society, Gymkhana brings its Michelin-starred London restaurant to Riyadh. A renowned meeting place for foodies and A-listers, Gymkhana’s contemporary twist on the classic Indian menu is crafted to delight. Guests can indulge in a flavorful lunch at Gymkhana running every weekend. This masterfully crafted set menu features all their favorite dishes. Guests can expect Chicken Butter Masala, Methi Malai Mutter Paneer, Goan Prawn Curry and much more for a hearty meal.
SAR 149 per person, Thursday – Saturday, 1PM – 4:30PM, VIA Riyadh, Al Hada, Riyadh 12912, sevenrooms.com, +966 9200 01819
Battlekart Ladies Night
BattleKart is the world’s first real life video game based karting. Enter a real war on the race track and shoot rockets to stop other opponents, drift with turbo bonus, and leave oil barrels behind. Many other game modes are offered like football karting, the famous snake game, and a lot more. Every Monday at Battlekart is reserved for the ladies, for an exclusive evening of fun, racing, and great vibes.
79 SAR, Mondays, 3112 Al Bahar Al Arabi, Ishbiliyah, Riyadh 13226, battlekart.com, +966 53 769 0165
Indulge in the Baikingu brunch at Zuma
available every Saturday, the Baikingu brunch features a selection of live stations created by Zuma’s Legendary head chef. Explore unlimited starters from a variety of hot and cold counters, including Zuma signatures such as shrimp tempura with lime and chilli dip, chilli lemon chicken karaage and prawn maki with tenkasu, avocado and wasabi mentaiko sauce, all set to the sound of a live DJ set. Move on to the sushi and robata stations, where chefs prepare a selection of signature dishes, alongside main courses including spicy beef tenderloin with sesame, red chilli and sweet soy, miso marinated black cod wrapped in hoba leaf and barley miso marinated baby chicken roasted on cedar wood. To conclude, step into the dessert room, offering an unlimited selection of desserts including Zuma favourites.
SAR 295 per person, Saturdays, 1PM – 4PM, Metro Blvd, Al Aqiq, Riyadh 13519, zumarestaurant.com, +966 9200 14597
May 25 – 31
Visit the brand new Maison Assouline
Maison Assouline is Assouline’s flagship boutique, restaurant and piano bar, in the prestigious Bujairi Terrace in Riyadh. This destination showcases Assouline’s commitment to luxury and culture in a setting inspired by Riyadh’s rich heritage. Maison Assouline Riyadh is a cultural destination, offering a meticulously curated environment that celebrates the art of living well. Maison Assouline houses a zero-proof bar and a restaurant featuring beverages and bites from a menu showcasing a delightful array of Mediterranean cuisine with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Assouline represents a new level of sophistication in book publishing and has evolved into a global lifestyle brand embraced throughout the world. Envelope yourself in a cultural bubble at Maison Assouline.
Sun – Tues 4PM – 12PM, Wed – Thurs 4PM – 1AM, Fri & Sat 2PM – 1AM, 227 King Faisal Rd, Al Bujairi, Unit #11, Riyadh 13711, assouline.com, +966 9200 14627
Witness House of Dolci at Madeo
House of Dolci has arrived at Madeo, bringing a vibrant experience to every evening. The terrace comes alive with signature dolci, refined atmosphere, and a new way to enjoy Madeo after dark. Led by Chef Alessandro, guests can indulge in a brand new menu crafted for Riyadh. Every Thursday from 8pm, a live DJ sets the tone with the best of the 80s, 90s, and 00s, creating the ultimate nightlife energy. Reserve your table and experience Madeo in a whole new way.
Thursdays, 8PM onwards, Al Hada, Riyadh 12912, sevenrooms.com, +966 9200 01819
Unwind with Mandarin Oriental’s state-of-the-art wellness center
Step into a serene oasis at the heart of the bustling city, Mandarin Oriental’s Wellness Center. This is where every element is designed to restore balance and bring peace. Our wellness sanctuary offers separate spas for ladies and gentlemen, ensuring a truly private and personalized experience. Indulge in therapies inspired by ancient healing practices and enhanced with modern wellness innovations. Let the art of holistic well-being elevate your senses as you relax, renew, and rediscover yourself in unparalleled luxury.
King Fahad Rd, Al Olaya, Riyadh 12212, mandarinoriental.com, +966 11 273 2000
