Entertaining Riyadh: An Expat's Guide to enjoying life in the city

Living as an expatriate in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia provides a unique opportunity to experience a blend of traditional charm and modernity. Amidst the bustling city, the thirst for entertainment and cultural experiences is palpable. In this blog post, we'll explore the exciting world of entertainment available to ex-pats in Riyadh, ranging from thrilling cinemas and electrifying concerts to adrenaline-pumping sporting events.

Cinemas in Riyadh

Gone are the days when cinema experiences were scarce in Riyadh and restricted to a compound. The city has embraced the magic of the silver screen, and cinephiles can now immerse themselves in the latest blockbuster releases and independent gems alike. With state-of-the-art theatres scattered across the city, you can enjoy an unmatched cinematic experience.

Some popular cinema chains include Vox Cinemas, AMC Cinemas, and Muvi Cinemas. From luxurious theatres equipped with recliner seats and gourmet snacks to immersive IMAX screens that transport you to the heart of the action, Riyadh has it all. Additionally, nearly all cinemas offer screenings with English audio or subtitles, catering to the diverse expat community.

Notable cinemas

• https://ksa.voxcinemas.com/

• https://www.amccinemas.com/

• https://www.muvicinemas.com/en/cinemas

Concerts and Live Performances

Riyadh's entertainment scene has evolved considerably, making it a regional hub for top-tier concerts and live performances. Whether you're a fan of international superstars or prefer local talents, Riyadh's venues have something for everyone.

The Diriyah Music Festival, an annual event held in the historic Diriyah area, showcases an array of musical acts from various genres. Additionally, the Riyadh Season festival, held during cooler months, features concerts featuring renowned artists from around the world. This event is a true celebration of culture and entertainment that attracts visitors from across the globe.

Keep an eye on local event listings and social media to stay updated on upcoming shows and performances:

Local Listings

• https://www.songkick.com/metro-areas/32220-saudi-arabia-riyadh

• https://www.timeoutriyadh.com/culture/riyadh-season-2022-concerts

Sporting Events

Saudi Arabia is passionate about sports, and Riyadh is no exception. If you're a sports enthusiast, you'll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in thrilling sporting events.

Football (soccer) is incredibly popular in Saudi Arabia, and attending a match at the King Fahd International Stadium is an unforgettable experience. The passionate fans and electrifying atmosphere make for a memorable outing. Many of the sports top players are being attracted to the Saudi Pro League, such as

• Al Nassr - Cristiano Ronaldo, Seko Fofana and Marcelo Brozovic

• Al Ahli - Edouard Mendy, Roberto Firmino

• Al-Ittihad - Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante and Jota

• Al-Hilal SFC - Kalidou Koulibaly, Ruben Neves and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic

So pick your local team and go down to see a good level of football that won't disappoint you.

In addition to football, Riyadh hosts various world-class sporting events, such as Boxing, motorsports, tennis tournaments, and equestrian competitions. Be sure to check the city's sports calendar to catch your favourite games and matches.

Notable events

• https://spl.com.sa/en

• https://www.koobit.com/saudi-arabia-l309/riyadh-l556

• https://www.timeoutriyadh.com/news/tyson-fury-francis-ngannou-riyadh-fight

Conclusion

Living as an expatriate in Riyadh doesn't mean sacrificing entertainment options. On the contrary, the city offers a vibrant and diverse range of entertainment, from cinematic delights to live concerts and exhilarating sports events. Embrace the cultural experiences Riyadh has to offer and immerse yourself in the city's dynamic entertainment scene.

As an expat in Riyadh, you have the incredible opportunity to explore and embrace the rich cultural tapestry of Saudi Arabia while enjoying world-class entertainment. So, whether you're cheering for your favourite football team, dancing to the rhythm of a live concert, or engrossed in the latest blockbuster, Riyadh has everything you need to keep your entertainment cravings fulfilled.

See you next week

Ash