Experience the Magic of December in Saudi Arabia

Get ready to immerse yourself in the enchanting festivities of December in Saudi Arabia, just a short trip from Dubai. This month is brimming with exhilarating events and activities that cater to every interest. From spectacular music festivals and elite sporting events to captivating art exhibitions and thrilling theme parks, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.

Here’s our curated list of the most exciting happenings in December:

Soundstorm 2024: Turn Up the Volume

The eagerly awaited annual music festival, Soundstorm, is back and ready to feature some of the biggest names in the industry. Headlining this year are iconic artists like Eminem, Maroon 5, and Muse. The lineup also boasts star-studded talents such as Akon, Afrojack, Tyler, the Creator, Black Coffee, David Guetta, Jason Derulo, G-Eazy, Linkin Park, and DJ Snake. Adding to the excitement are regional acts like Anmarz, Baloo, Butch, Dorar, Hats & Klaps, Russ, and Vinyl Mode. With multiple stages, hundreds of artists, electrifying performances, delectable food options, and unforgettable experiences, this promises to be the loudest weekend in Riyadh.

From SAR 209. December 12-14. Banban, Riyadh. nofomo.com.

Wonder Garden: A Dreamland Awaits

Returning for its second consecutive year, Wonder Garden is a whimsical escape for visitors of all ages. Boasting over 70 adrenaline-pumping rides and two expansive arcade halls filled with exciting skill games, there’s no shortage of thrills. This year, Wonder Garden elevates the experience with more than 35 dining options. Don’t miss the enchanting themed areas, including The Dark Garden, Flora, Flamingo Lake, and The Butterfly Garden, where magic and wonder await at every turn.

From SAR 25. 4 PM till midnight. Until January 5, 2025. Wonder Garden, Al Malqa. webook.com.

Next Gen ATP Finals: Witness Tomorrow’s Tennis Stars

The Next Gen ATP Finals return to Jeddah, showcasing the world’s top young tennis talents for the second year in a row. This prestigious event features the best eight players aged 21 and under from the ATP Tour, providing a glimpse into the future of tennis. In addition to thrilling matches, this year’s event includes fan zones and various entertainment activities, making it an unmissable experience for families and tennis enthusiasts alike.

From SAR 20. December 18-22. King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah. webook.com

Reignited 2: A Night of Boxing Action

Get ready for an unforgettable night of boxing at Kingdom Arena for Reignited 2. The Heavyweight Champion Oleksandr Usyk will face off against Tyson Fury in a highly anticipated rematch. After claiming victory in their last encounter, Usyk is prepared to defend his titles in this monumental showdown. With both fighters eager for triumph, this is a thrilling chapter of the Riyadh Season that you won’t want to miss!

From SAR 50. December 21. Kingdom Arena, Hittin, Riyadh. webook.com.

Red Sea Film Festival: Dive into Cinema

The Red Sea Film Festival 2024 returns to Jeddah with an impressive selection of innovative Arab and international films. The fourth edition of the festival embraces the theme ‘Cinema has a new home,’ inspired by the historic charm of Al Balad, the festival’s vibrant venue.

December 5-14. Al Balad. redseafilmfest.com.

Noor Riyadh: Illuminate Your World

Noor Riyadh will be lighting up the city until Saturday, December 14, as the fourth edition of the world’s largest art light festival continues to dazzle. This year’s theme, Light Years Apart, promises over 60 stunning artworks illuminating various areas of Riyadh over a two-and-a-half-week period. Alongside this citywide exhibition, there will be a public program featuring educational workshops, talks, and performances.

Various locations across Riyadh. riyadhart.com.

Chinese Contemporary Art Exhibition: A Cultural Encounter

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore contemporary Chinese art for the first time in Saudi Arabia at the Writings of Today are a Promise for Tomorrow exhibition at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art (SAMoCA). This new Riyadh exhibition features 31 artists from diverse cultural backgrounds, showcasing over 50 artworks that reflect the evolving landscape of Chinese society. It’s yet another reason to spend a day at SAMoCA.

SAR 25. Open Mon-Thu 10 AM-10 PM, Fri-Sat 4 PM-10 PM. Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art, JAX District. webook.com.

The Groves: A Luxurious Retreat

The Groves offers a delightful blend of nature, food, arts, and culture, featuring a theatre overlooking a serene lake. From cozy cafés and fine-dining restaurants to entertaining events and engaging art workshops, there’s something to entice everyone. General admission provides access to The Groves Lake and The Groves Village, with additional charges for specific areas like Hawanin Groves City, Khawaja Yanni, Little Krazy, Vida Vera, and Zama Zulu. Since its debut in 2021, The Groves has become a favored destination during Riyadh Season, and this year is set to be no different.

SAR 65 Sun-Wed, SAR 95 Thu-Sat. 4:30 PM till 1 AM. Starting from December 3. Al Rafiah, Riyadh. webook.com.

Riyadh Zoo: A Wild Adventure

If you’re an animal lover, you’re in luck! Riyadh Zoo is now open, with free entry during Riyadh Season. Experience the wonders of wildlife as you explore over 1,300 animals from 190 species and interact with monkeys, lions, tigers, bears, and more throughout the 55-acre zoo. The zoo features six main zones: Pink Lake, The Swamp, Wild Adventure, Al Malaz Bay, Ape Escape, and the Enchanted Forest. Keep an eye out for Bengal tigers in The Swamp, meet chimpanzees in Ape Escape, and interact with friendly kangaroos in Al Malaz Bay. New this year is an aviary and a stage for thrilling bird shows filled with surprising tricks. Additionally, specially designed platforms allow you to feed crocodiles, giraffes, monkeys, and elephants.

Free Entry. Prince Saad Bin Abdullah Road, Al Malaz. webook.com.

Harry Potter Experience: Step into the Magical Realm

Expecto Patronum! A spectacular new Harry Potter experience has launched during Riyadh Season. Step into a magical realm like no other at the region’s first indoor pop-up inspired by the beloved Harry Potter films. Witches, wizards, and Muggles of all ages can immerse themselves in a world of enchantment, from the thrilling Great Hall Sorting Experience to honing your Quaffle skills on the Quidditch Pitch. Don’t miss the chance to grab exclusive merchandise at The Wizarding World Shops and enjoy a refreshing Butterbeer at The Three Broomsticks Food Hall. This interactive adventure promises fun and excitement for everyone—so grab your wand and prepare for a spellbinding experience!

From SAR 60. November 28 – January 27, 2025. 4 PM – midnight. Boulevard City, Hittin. webook.com.