< Previousslug 10 MONTH 2025 TIMEOUTDUBAI.COM Things to do Go ringside at Riyadh Season at Alvarez vs. Scull Get ready for one of boxing’s biggest nights as Mexican superstar Saul “Canelo” Alvarez faces off against Cuban William Scull in “Fatal Fury” during Riyadh Season. Canelo, the undisputed super middleweight champion, will defend his WBC, WBA, IBF and WBO titles for the first time outside the U.S. and Mexico, showcasing Riyadh’s rise as a global hub for world-class boxing. And this is a big one. Alvarez aims to reclaim the IBF belt he lost, while Scull rides high on confidence from his undefeated streak and title win over Vladimir Shishkin last October. The “Fatal Fury” undercard also features thrilling matchups, including Jaime Munguia vs. Bruno Surace, Martin Bakole vs. Efe Ajagba, and Badou Jack vs. Ryan Rozicki. O Prices TBC. Sat May 3, 10pm, Kingdom Arena. June Celebrate Eid al Adha with family and friends Otherwise known as the festival of sacrifice, Eid al Adha is expected to start on the evening of Saturday June 7. Both public and private sectors can expect time off, so turn to page 28 for all the celebratory inspo and timeoutriyadh.com for the latest. Get your game on at the Global Games Show Uniting innovators and gamers to explore the future of the industry, fans can get ahead of the game (sorry, not sorry) at the Global Games Show. “Powering the next generation of gaming” is the name of the game here, so you can expect the latest and greatest in the world of Esports revealed here. Enjoy top speakers and competitions all under one roof, too. O Free (early bird visitor pass). Mon Jun 23-Tue Jun 24. 8am-6pm, globalgamesshow.com. Live la vida loca at SUSHISAMBA’s Friday brunch On the last Friday of the month, SUSHISAMBA pulls out all the stops for its high-energy Vida brunch. If you’re a fan of SUSHISAMBA’s lively atmosphere, KAFD views and signature Japanese-Peruvian- Brazilian flavours, you get all of that plus fantastic live entertainment and a set menu. SUSHISAMBA’s chefs have whipped up new dishes, like pao de queijo with togarashi butter, to complement some of the restaurant’s beloved signature dishes, such as the fresh salmon ceviche and coco mushroom toban as one of the three enticing options for your main course. Be sure to keep an eye out for the mocktail cart being wheeled around the chic venue. O SAR195 (adults), SAR140 (kids). Fri June 27. 2.30pm-4.30pm. KAFD, Al Aqiq, sushisamba.com. Brush up on your history at the National Museum Situated in close proximity to the historic Masmak Fort, the National Museum of Saudi Arabia is filled with incredible arts and culture across four exhibition halls. Be sure to check out the Ancient Arab Kingdoms Gallery, where you will feel immersed in the fascinating civilisations that thrived in the region from the 4th millennium BC to the 2nd century AD. O Free. Open Mon-Wed 9am-7pm, Thu 9am-10pm, Fri 2pm-10pm, Sat 9am-7pm. King Saud Rd., Historical Centre, @saudimuseum. Eid Al Adha SUSHISAMBATIMEOUTDUBAI.COM MONTH 2025 11 Summer is knocking and you know what that means, holiday season. This summer, why not swap that international trip for an escape on your doorstep? Saudi Arabia is brimming with plenty of incredible staycation deals that are too good to resist. You could explore AlUla, aka the world’s largest living museum, where Banyan Tree AlUla has an irresistible holiday deal waiting for you. Tucked away in the breathtaking Ashar Valley, this all-villa resort blends ultra- luxe comforts and the beauty of the Saudi desert in one stunning destination. Wake up to sunshine streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows of your private villa with nothing but views of copper-hued cliffs stretching as far as the eye can see. The canopied villas, most of which have private pools and external fire pits, blend seamlessly into the sweeping desert sands. Take advantage of the ‘stay more, pay less’ offer and treat yourself to a dreamy getaway with 20 percent off the best available rate. Your stay comes with daily breakfast, too. While doing nothing might be at the top of your holiday itinerary, AlUla is full of hidden gems that you’ll want to explore. First up? The hotel’s serene rock pool. Wedged between two natural rock formations, this one-of-a-kind spot feels like your own mini fjord, perfect for a secluded dip and some serious lounging. Then, dine overlooking the golden desertscape at Middle Eastern restaurant Harrat or under the stars at Thai spot, Saffron. And whatever you do, don’t skip Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building, an architectural marvel, which you have to truly see to believe. A self-care day while you’re holidaying is a must. Banyan Tree Spa is the perfect spot to unwind and recharge with a range of relaxing treatments on offer. While you’re there, why not indulge in a deep tissue massage for the ultimate reset? Your mind, body and soul will thank you. So, get away to Banyan Tree AlUla, where you can relax with loved ones in luxury, surrounded by a setting that is steeped in history. Ready to holiday in style? Book now by emailing reservations-alula@banyantree.com. O Ashar Valley, AlUla, banyantree.com/saudi-arabia/ alula (+966 14 512 0000). A surreal desert retreat awaits Explore Banyan Tree AlUla, a sanctuary suspended in time and space Partner content12 SPRING 2025 TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM Garden city Garden city The vision for King Salman Park Garden cityTIMEOUTRIYADH.COM SPRING 2025 13 From the world’s largest urban park to stunning botanical gardens, Riyadh’s green mega-projects are working towards a more sustainable future. Say hello to the soon-to-be green city. By Naomi Chadderton14 SPRING 2025 TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM T he clock’s ticking, folks. World- renowned scientists say we need to keep global warming under a 1.5°C rise in the coming years, or otherwise brace ourselves for scorching heat waves, rising seas and the heartbreaking loss of many of the world’s coral reefs. Not exactly the kind of world we’re after. The good news? Plenty of countries are starting to step up, making real moves toward a greener, lower-carbon future, with Saudi Arabia playing its part in the global effort. Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock for the last few years, you will have heard about its many giga-projects-in-the-making, with the country undergoing massive green development programmes through the likes of NEOM and the Red Sea Project. In fact, at the end of last year, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) expanded its green project investment plan to over $19.4 billion (SAR72.25 billion), covering 91 eligible projects in areas such as renewable energy, green buildings and clean transportation, as well as sustainable water management, pollution prevention and sustainable management of living natural resources and land use. The fact that sustainability has emerged The vision for King Salman ParkTIMEOUTRIYADH.COM SPRING 2025 15 as a key focal point for businesses and governments across the country is not just a testament to its grandeur, but also a beacon of hope for a more green-conscious future. As the location of the 2030 World Expo, and the main city hosting the 2034 World Cup, the government is making the capital city of Riyadh a priority, with big plans to move towards a more sustainable and eco- friendly approach, from improving waste management to boosting green technology initiatives. A key part of this drive will be the introduction of new public-private partnerships, bringing together international and local experts to develop smart solutions for managing water and energy consumption. This collaborative effort is expected to yield breakthroughs in sustainable urban planning, bringing in new technologies to create energy-efficient cities. It’s a big leap forward for Saudi Arabia, which is positioning itself as a global leader in eco-urban design. This is, of course, all part of a bigger plan otherwise known as Vision 2030. Developed as part of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman’s plan to transform the country, these exciting new projects aim to “increase the ratio of individuals exercising at least once a week from 13 percent of the population to 40 percent” and “increase the average life expectancy from 74 years to 80 years”, involving everything from planting seven-and-a-half million trees across the city to building numerous new parks and green spaces, including one four times the size of London’s Hyde Park. There’s also a new irrigation system using treated wastewater being developed, while retail magnets are looking to traditional local architecture to make new homes throughout the city more energy efficient. Not only will these innovations work to improve the city’s liveability, but they will also help protect the environment and enhance the beauty of Riyadh – something we can all most certainly get behind. So, without further ado, these are the most remarkable mega-projects set to redefine Riyadh from a desert oasis to a green city. King Salman Park The Gulf has a proven track record of investing in impressive infrastructure to draw in tourists, aiming to establish itself as the go-to destination for the world’s biggest and best. Whether it’s breathtaking skyscrapers, lavish resorts or cutting-edge entertainment venues, the region is on a mission to redefine the travel landscape. King Salman Park under construction Garden city16 SPRING 2025 TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM Garden city Yet while Dubai might have the Burj Khalifa and Abu Dhabi recently smashed the record for the largest-ever aerial display of fireworks and drones, Riyadh has got its heart set on building the largest urban park in the world with the development of King Salman Park. Currently under construction with an estimated value of $9.4 billion (SAR35.25 billion), this 16.7 square kilometre park of the future is shaping up to be Riyadh’s ultimate urban oasis, master planned by Saudi studio Omrania and Danish studio Henning Larsen. Complete with 11 square kilometres of lush greenery and valleys filled with a million trees, this park is a true green sanctuary, nourished entirely by 100 percent recycled city water. It features a unique microclimate, created by flowing rivers and refreshing water jets, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Surrounding it all is The Loop, a stunning 7km circular walkway ideal for leisurely strolls, cycling or simply soaking in the beauty of nature. To put things in perspective, the park will be five times bigger than New York’s Central Park, and larger than Berlin’s Tiergarten and Dublin’s Phoenix Park too. It’s so much more than just a pretty green space, though, with the project aiming to boost air quality, lower temperatures and make Riyadh a healthier, happier and more sustainable city through the likes of healthcare cost savings, increased real estate value and improved public wellbeing. With the park’s design prioritising water conservation and energy efficiency, it will also use smart lighting systems and water- saving irrigation methods to keep energy consumption low. Oh, and that’s not all. At its heart there will be a showstopping collection of landmark buildings including the Royal Arts The vision for King Salman ParkTIMEOUTRIYADH.COM SPRING 2025 17 newest and largest (yes, that word again) temperature-controlled botanical haven, sprawling across a massive 10 hectares in the Tuwaiq desert just outside Riyadh, designed to study climate change, sustainable projects and recreate the evolution of plants, trees and flowers. No ordinary botanical escape, King Abdullah International Gardens is more of a time machine disguised as a garden, taking visitors on a journey through 400 million years of Earth’s history, from the prehistoric ferns of the Jurassic era to the flowering plants of today. The experience will be split into themed zones – we’re most excited about hanging out with our favourite winged creature in The Butterfly Garden – while, located in a crescent building, the final garden, The Garden of Choices, will be an educational space exploring how the lifestyle choices we make today could change the world for future generations. Sustainability is at the heart of it all, with solar power, water recycling and even locally sourced materials like rocks, gravel and soil ensuring that this oasis treads lightly on the earth. After all, with an expected three million visitors annually, that’s the least it Complex featuring a striking 110m high pyramid by Ricardo Bofill and a sleek visitor pavilion by Adjaye Associates. While no official completion date has been locked in, though 2027 has been floated, none of the green spaces have been rolled out just yet. But when it’s done? Expect a world-class park that His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City himself, calls a “global icon” and a game-changer for Riyadh’s urban landscape. “It is a unique location that raises standards for parks while catering to the needs of Riyadh citizens,” he added. We can’t wait. King Abdullah International Gardens From London’s Kew Gardens to Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay, there are heaps of beautiful botanical gardens around the world designed to help us reconnect with nature while getting a dose of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Given its desert landscape, however, it’s an area where Saudi Arabia has room to grow. Until now, that is. Set to open soon, King Abdullah International Gardens will be the world’s King Salman Park under contruction King Abdullah International Garden Garden city18 SPRING 2025 TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM can do. The Gardens’ unique approach to showcasing biodiversity while promoting sustainable agricultural practices is also expected to inspire other countries in the region to implement similar green initiatives, as it raises awareness but also demonstrates how urban spaces can harmonise with nature. Sports Boulevard When it comes to green spaces, there are parks, and then there are linear parks. Longer than they are wide (think The High Line in New York, which saw a former elevated train line transformed into a park in 2009), these multi-purpose places take people on a journey through the city, transforming unused infrastructure into places that encourage both movement and relaxation with playgrounds, art installations, places to picnic and plenty of sporting facilities. Set to be the world’s largest linear park, Riyadh’s Sports Boulevard is, unsurprisingly given its name, focused mainly around the latter, stretching an epic 135km across Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Road, and connecting Wadi Hanifah in the west to Wadi Al Sulai in the east with 4.4 million square metres of greenery, 220km of cycling tracks, 149km of horse-riding trails and endless pedestrian walkways. While phase one of the project just opened in February 2025, there’s so much more to come. Divided into eight distinct zones, this active corridor will cater to everyone from casual strollers to hardcore athletes. You’ve got The Hanifah Valley Zone which, stretching 30km from Al-Olab Dam in Historical Diyriah to Al Madina Al-Monawara Road, will be a paradise for cyclists complete with bike repair stops, coffee shops and retail outlets, while the 3km-long Art Zone will blend culture and recreation through the likes of museums, studios, libraries and theatres alongside scenic walking, cycling and horse riding paths. Escape from the heat at The Recreational Zone with its shaded parks, cooling system for the summer season, outdoor cinema and 40km viaduct for professional cyclists, while The Sports Zone will be home to TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM SPRING 2025 19 The Sport Tower, a high-rise packed with training courts and a Velodrome. Then there’s the 14km Environmental Zone with serene jogging trails and an elevated route for professional cyclists, the 53km Al Sulai Valley Zone, which will provide prime routes for cycling, horse riding, picnics and camping. The Sand Dunes Park Zone which, arguably the star of the show covering 20,000 square kilometres, will be home to a 50m high flower-shaped cycling track that promises gorgeous views, plus a sprawling equestrian centre, a five square kilometre zoo and a rural resort. It goes on and on. While outdoor fans can enjoy phase one of Sports Boulevard now, the final completion date for the whole project is 2029, with developers expecting it to redefine urban fitness and leisure, and the place where Riyadh comes to move. Wadi Hanifah Now a dreamy escape, Wadi Hanifah has undergone a jaw-dropping transformation over the years, turning into one of Riyadh’s most treasured green spaces. Measuring an impressive 120km from the Tuwaiq Escarpment to the desert southeast of the city, this revitalised valley is a go-to for locals looking to unwind complete with hiking trails, cycling paths and even horse- riding routes. Now, thanks to the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, this lush retreat is set to get even more, well, lush, thanks to a programme that will preserve and rehabilitate the wadi, building on its strategic location, investment capabilities and potential to serve as urban lungs for the city and its residents. We’ve already seen the completion of the environmental rehabilitation of Ghudhwana, a significant tributary of Wadi Hanifa, in 2024, after 34 months of dedicated work, which involved the planting of over 15,000 trees and shrubs, creating a beautiful space that connects the neighbourhoods of Dhahrat Al Badi’ah, Al-Suwaidi and Al-Zahra in southwest Riyadh. With lakes that cool the air, winding pathways and plenty of shaded spots, Wadi Hanifah is also a hub for adventure, attracting both residents and tourists alike on the hunt for a scenic stroll (the valley’s walkways weave through palm groves and serene wetlands, making it one of the city’s most Insta-worthy spots). It isn’t just pretty, either – it’s alive with native plants and wildlife, birds, fish and small mammals. There’s also a strong focus on sustainability, of course, with natural watercourses helping to manage floods and irrigate green spaces. Green Riyadh Project Anyone who has spent a summer in Riyadh knows just how hot it can get. With temperatures regularly soaring above 40°C for months on end, the city’s heat can feel almost unbearable. That’s where Green Riyadh Project comes in. Initially launched Sports Boulevard Wadi Hanifah Garden cityNext >