< Previous30 SPRING 2025 TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM Where to eat The Globe At The Globe, the whole of central Riyadh can see you – and you can see them (for miles around on a clear night). Encased in the famous giant glass orb which hangs suspended from the iconic Al Faisaliah Tower, it doesn’t get more luxe than this. With dramatic cityscape views, artfully prepared main courses and (if you visit between 3pm and 6pm on weekends) traditional afternoon tea served on a tiered cake stand, it’s proper glam. O Open Sun-Thu 7pm-11.30pm, Fri and Sat 3pm-6pm and 8pm-11.30pm. King Fahd Branch Rd, Al Faisaliah Tower, mandarinoriental.com (011 273 2222). Aseeb If there’s one name that everyone is recommends when it comes to Saudi restaurants, it is Aseeb. The winner of Best Saudi category at the Time Out Riyadh Restaurant Awards, this Alyasmin spot is a perfect destination for large groups and families coming together to celebrate. Expect Saudi classics that are sure to impress even the most seasoned Saudi cuisine-lovers. Plus, you can also experience Najdi-style historic décor complete with woven baskets and much more. O Open Sat-Wed 6.30am-12.15am, Thu-Fri 6.30am- 1am. Alyasmin, @aseeb.najd (092 002 8226). Lusin One of Riyadh’s most stylish Middle Eastern restaurants, Lusin is part of a small yet mighty group of Armenian restaurants with an international branch in London’s Mayfair. Authentic dishes make up the menu with the likes of toushka bread stuffed with spicy mince and aubergine rolls filled with cream. Chefs roll out regular house specials like soborak, featuring layers of pastry, cheese and peppers baked in an oven. Enjoy it all among earthy, eye-catching interiors. O Open daily, noon-1am, Centria Mall, lusinrestaurant.com (92 000 2690). Manzoul Here you’ll find casual Lebanese cuisine in a stylish setting, complete with a spacious semi-covered terrace with views of lawns, decorative pools and palm trees. Whether you join morning or night, you’re in for a treat. Try the house speciality, majounet lahem bi jebneh, a spiced grilled kebab-style meat block stuffed with peppers, onions and melted cheese. Delish. O Open Sat-Wed 8am-midnight, Thu-Fri 8am- 12.30am. At Taawun, @manzoul.ksa. Ruya Translating to ‘dream’ in Turkish, this spot is inspired by the culture, traditions and history across the Byzantine, Anatolian and Ottoman empires, as well as contemporary Turkey. Expect modern A perfect place for some variety, this market doesn’t house your usual buys. Championing both local and regional brands, buy a stylish kaftan for your mum or statement jewellery for your sister. If you need gifting inspo, this is the place to be. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri 4pm-10pm, Al Olaya, @eastwaymarket. Al Hussain Toys Make a beeline for Al Hussain Toys if you’re searching for the perfect Eid gifts for kids. This iconic toy shop has everything you need. With multiple locations across Riyadh, you’ll find a fantastic selection of games, unique collectibles and special Eid-themed items that are sure to put a smile on any kid’s face. O Open daily. 10am-noon, 4pm-11.30pm, Various locations, @alhussain_toys. For the sweets Aani & Dani Chocolates are always a sweet gift idea. A proudly Saudi made and owned business, Aani & Dani is one of the most popular chocolate shops in Riyadh. Head here for a tempting variety of flavour combinations that are tough to beat (hello, crunchy salted caramel). Opt for one of many signature boxes to try them all. O Open daily 9am-midnight. Various locations, @aanidani. Saadeddin When it comes to celebrations, Saadeddin’s cakes are a must-have. With a legacy dating back to 1919, they’ve mastered the art of special cakes. Have a vision for something unique? Opt for a custom cake to truly make it your own. Plus, with more than 10 locations sprinkled throughout the city, you’re never too far. For those times when you can’t make it in person, they deliver. O Open Sat-Thu 7am-midnight, Fri 1pm-midnight. Various locations, @saadeddinpastry. Said dal 1923 SAID dal 1923 always has the best Eid collections to choose from, and yes, it’s all about chocolates (yes, please). Choose from a variety of luxury assorted chocolates from this chocolatier, which started in Rome in (you guessed it) 1923. A box of their handmade chocolates makes an excellent gift for all of your loved ones. And while you’re there, don’t miss out on their out-of- this-world signature hot chocolates. O Open daily 11am-midnight. Lumiere Centre and Solitaire Mall, @saiddal1923ksa. The GlobeEid Al Adha TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM SPRING 2025 31 dishes inspired by historic Anatolian gastronomy and Turkish classics. It won Best Middle Eastern restaurant at the Time Out Riyadh Restaurant Awards so you know it’s good. O Open daily, 12.30pm-1am. As Sulimaniyah, ruyarestaurants.com (92 001 0692). Yauatcha Located in the ultra-luxe Al Faisaliah Mall, Yauatcha serves up gourmet dim sum (think venison puffs and smoked duck siu mai) amid airy interiors lined with cherry blossom trees. There are dozens of dumplings to choose from with unique flavours and textures that you won’t find anywhere else. O Open daily noon-11.30pm. Al Faisaliah Mall, Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Rd, Olaya, yauatcha.sa (9200 06555). Yawmiyat by Dalal Looking for a cosy Lebanese dining experience? Yawmiyat by Dalal is a charming family-run restaurant perfect for both lunch and dinner this Eid. The vibe here feels like an extension of your own home. All the homely comforts in one spot. O Open daily noon-11.30pm. Al Wurud, yawmiyatfood.com (050 711 1055). Where to celebrate Boulevard City This is a must-visit. Fireworks and a drone show at Boulevard Square await every night of Eid, starting at 9 pm. From gaming zones to bustling shopping centres and restaurants and cafés, Riyadh’s vibrant energy is here every night of the week. O Open daily 4pm-2am. Boulevard City, Hittin. Via Riyadh Another place to catch impressive fireworks displays, Via Riyadh is an exciting foodie destination, spoiling diners for choice. Take your pick from more than 14 international and local cafés and restaurants, from Scott’s and Spago to Gymkhana. After you eat, check out the area’s concept stores, five-star hotel and cinema halls. It’s all fabuous. O Open daily 11am-2am. Al Hada @viariyadh. Book an Isteraha stay If you’re planning to book an Isteraha, a recreational retreat or getaway, you better act quick — the good ones sell out fast. Whether you have your eyes on a desert camp or a barbecue under the night sky, it’s perfect for a family gathering. Don’t know where to start? Gathern has great options. O gathern.co. Bujairi Terrace Make your way to Bujairi Terrace for the ultimate celebration. Last year’s festivities featured a vibrant lineup, including live performances of traditional shows like Al-Ardha and Al-Samari, Arabian horse displays, henna artistry and classic cars. Expect much of the same this year, plus art installations, pottery painting and more. O Open Sat-Tue 9am-1am, Wed-Fri 9am-2am. Bujairi Terrace, Diriyah @visitdiriyah. Treat yourself 30 Degrees | Men’s salon This isn’t just any barbershop; it’s your ticket to feeling like a million bucks this Eid. Need a fresh haircut or facial treatments? They’ve got you covered and you’ll leave glowing. Their VIP services offer a secluded space for some uninterrupted pampering, too. O Open Sat-Thur noon-midnight, Fri 1pm-midnight. Salim Ibn Maqil, An Nakheel, @30degreesbarbershop (092 003 5655). AlManahil Beauty | Ladies’ salon This OG Riyadh beauty salon in the Diplomatic Quarter has been around since the 90s. Hair, nails and spa treatments are all on offer, including the viral head spa. If your hair could use some TLC, this tried-and- true place will sort you out. O Open Sat-Thu 10am-9pm, Fri 2pm-9pm. Diplomatic Square, Diplomatic Quarter, Al Safarat, almanahilcenter.odoo.com (92 000 6245). Vogue Salon | Ladies’ salon A go-to spot for everything from chic hair trims to trendy lowlights, this stylish salon is always a destination. Elevate your self-care routine with a lush mani-pedi. Nailed it. O Open daily 10am-10pm. Al Manar, @vogue.salon (92 002 2156). Bujairi Terrace32 SPRING 2025 TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM Food Zuma The globally renowned hot spot brings its famed Japanese menu to the capital Zuma has officially landed. From London to Dubai, Istanbul to Miami, Zuma is that one place that foodies around the world just cannot stop buzzing about – and now, it’s finally Riyadh’s turn. The global hot spot has officially opened its doors in the Saudi capital and if you listened closely, you might have been able to hear that collective sigh of relief. The anticipation leading up to its debut was undeniably present across the city. Located in KAFD, the internationally recognised concept offers up incredible Japanese food, very cool décor and a buzzing atmosphere reserved only for the hottest restaurants in the capital. Diners who have been to other Zumas around the world will immediately feel at home with the wooden interiors, bright windows and chefs’ chorus of greetings from the open sushi bar and grill as you enter. From the second you step inside, you know you’re in for a vibey meal. It’s clear the crowd consists of trendy foodies who want to be at one of the coolest culinary destinations in town. You’ll also find newcomers eager to get a taste of the modern Japanese restaurant. Either way, they’ve come to the right place. And here, you have choices. Take your pick from a place on the terrace on the main floor, a spot at the bar on the top floor or a seat in the sprawling open dining room. You really can’t go wrong. The menu is jam-packed with Zuma classics along with new dishes and seasonal specials. Plus, a business lunch deal and tasting menus that offer excellent value and a chance to feast on signatures. If you’re going à la carte, skip the maki and opt for the signature starters instead, like the vibrant Zuma salad with ginger-miso dressing or the sliced seared tuna with chilli daikon and ponzu sauce, along with the Time Out reviews anonymously and pays for its mealsTIMEOUTRIYADH.COM SPRING 2025 33 robata options and signatures. Caviar decorates many dishes on the menu (of course, which is a welcome addition. There are two caviar platters if you prefer a more concentrated amount and want to upgrade your dinner with something a little more bougie. We say treat yourself... because why not? While the wagyu section is naturally popular with Riyadh diners, they’re bound to be impressed here. The freshly seared Australian wagyu tataki with truffle ponzu is a favourite truffle hit. It’s also very good value at under SAR300. Pair that with one of the more inventive sides, like the roasted whole potato with shiso chilli ponzu butter – crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, it’s an unmissable side dish that will leave you wanting more. It wouldn’t be a complete meal without Three to try Japanese restaurants Kuuru If you’re after stylish food served in a glamorous space by staff who certainly know their way around the menu, this is your spot. Kuuru blends Japanese and Peruvian cuisines resulting in a modern Nikkei menu with colourful plates and serious flavour. Kuuru might be one of the newer kids on the block compared to more established Japanese restaurants in Riyadh, but it is certainly delivering. O Open Sun-Wed noon-midnight, Thu-Sat noon-1am, KAFD, kuuruksa (92 003 5739). Myazu Since opening in 2020, this Japanese eatery has become one of those that just gets better with age. Myazu’s setting is cool and elegant – from the dark colour palette to the comfortable, sophisticated main dining room featuring a statement sushi bar in the middle. The atmosphere is vibrant, the crowd is oh-so-stylish and the service is nothing short of impeccable. Whether it’s suggesting drinks, recommending food or engaging in friendly conversation, the team here operates seamlessly. O Open Sat-Wed 1pm-midnight, Thu-Fri 1pm-1am, As Sulimaniyah, @myazusaudi (92 000 9686). ROKA ROKA is one of those restaurants that you just want to hang out in. It’s the full package with stellar sushi, rocking robata, magnificent mixology and desserts that you must save room for. Period. Combine this with super staff and an amazing ambience and you start to see what makes it special. With live kitchens and a sprawling terrace, ROKA ticks all the boxes. O Open Sat-Wed 1pm-midnight, Thu-Fri 1pm-12.30am, As Sulimaniyah, @rokarestaurant.ksa (92 001 2327). a sweet finale. Push the boat out for the signature dessert platter. At over SAR100, it’s on the spenny side, but it’s showstopping to say the least. It will leave you full and satisfied. If you have a sweet tooth, it’s a must. With a full house on most nights, service still manages to be brilliant – as it should be, especially when you’ll easily be paying SAR1,000 for two. Zuma has a storied global reputation and its Riyadh outpost definitely lives up to all that hype. With iconic well-executed dishes, friendly service and a cooler than cool energy, Zuma Riyadh has successfully joined the city’s stellar Japanese restaurants. With Zuma on Riyadh’s dining scene, you know you’re in for a treat. O Open daily 5.30pm-2am. KAFD, Al Aqiq, zumaretaurant.com (92 001 4597).34 SPRING 2025 TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM Akira Back A stylish Japanese spot by a world-famous chef in the city’s up-and-coming complex It’s no secret that Riyadh’s diners are obsessed with Japanese cuisine (we’re talking full-on heart-eyes emoji here). From the authentic to the fusion, there are no two ways about it. And now, there’s one more contender to spice things up – say hello to Akira Back. With glam branches in Las Vegas, Dubai, Paris, Bangkok and Singapore, Riyadh is now the next city to house the fine-dining concept from pro snowboarder-turned-chef Akira Back. The latest outpost in the Saudi capital has an great location in the up-and-coming 1364 complex in Riyadh’s Diplomatic Quarter. Expect all the usual stylish ultra- luxe dining elements – think house music, moody lighting, an open kitchen and an impressive mocktail bar. Akira Back fits right rice too, which features cajun tuna, nori paste and spicy ponzo zioli. The signature rolls are both style and substance, made with flush ingredients – basic sushi this is not. Take the high roller with Japanese wagyu, Oscietra caviar, foie gras, Japanese pickle and yuzu kosho ponzo. The sweet brother from another mother with unagi kabayaki, anago tempura, shaved foie gras tourchon and mayo is a popular sweet roll. Rock shrimp on the other hand lacks slightly in flavour. Similarly, the ‘secret’ off- menu sliders are popular, yet the patties are a tad dry for our liking. Overall, the raw and cold dishes are impressive. Our advice is to order several smaller cold plates to share among your crew. Mains feature a selection of dependable options including ribeye, shortrib, jidori chicken and fish (hello, miso black cod). You’ll be tempted to end with the dramatic and very theatrical dessert platter, which is reasonably priced at SAR158 featuring locally inspired chocolate creations. There’s no denying the tough competition when it comes to Japanese dining in Riyadh, thus attention to detail is key. While Akira Back doesn’t nail every single element, it’s one to add to your must-visit list. O Open-Wed 5.30pm-1am, Thu-Fri 12.30pm- 1am. 1364, Diplomatic Quarter, Al Safarat, akirabackriyadh.com (011 269 1498). into the trendy Riyadh food scene. The menu also features a hit-list of popular Japanese dishes that Riyadh diners will love. Think tuna pizza, with fish delicately sliced and laid on a crispy base, topped with white truffle oil, micro shisho and umami aioli. Try the crispy Food TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM SPRING 2025 35 Tayba Gourmet A family-friendly Egyptian restaurant on Tahlia Street that’s excellent value If you’re craving Egyptian food, there’s no need to cross the Red Sea. Head to Tahlia Street instead, where you’ll be able to take your pick. One of the newer kids on the block is Tayba Gourmet. With locations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the concept focuses on a welcoming family- friendly atmosphere that draws crowds looking for a good-value meal featuring traditional dishes. It’s clearly a favourite for Egyptian expats and anyone really who wants a taste of Egypt while in the Saudi capital. But no matter who you are, you’re made to feel welcome. There’s a lot that keeps diners coming back besides the helpful staff, the lovely vibe and hearty portions. Tayba Gourmet has a weekend buffet breakfast and buffet night with live music. It’s safe to say all occasions are covered with special dishes. Eat inside and watch one of the Egyptian matches on the screen or enjoy the live music. Alternatively, sit outside on the terrace and soak up the Tahlia Street vibes. When it comes to the food, there’s no way you’re leaving hungry. The menu is packed with plenty of options with soups, cold and hot appetisers, grills, tagines, fresh juices and desserts. There’s even a feast section for those who really want to feed their crew. Mixed plates including the mixed kofta and kebab or mixed Tayba signature plate with kebab, kofta, shish tarb, lamb chops and hawashi are great ways to sample the whole lot. At under SAR80 it’s excellent value, so why wouldn’t you? Pigeons are a signature and a dish you don’t see too much on Riyadh menus. These crispy-skinned birds come positively packed with rice or freekeh, served with more grains. No order is complete without molokhia, an iconic Egyptian garlicky soup-like mix of greens that complements the meat and carbs. We promise you can’t go wrong with this one. The same goes for the selection of goods at the bakery section, like the Tayba special hawawshi with cheese, pastrami mince meat and vegetables. For dessert you can opt for a sweet one, including the four seasons pie, which – yes, you guessed it – has four distinct sweet fillings your crew can fight over. If you’re feeling inspired, you can head over to the market next door to pick up Egyptian products so you can recreate some of your favourite dishes at home. There’s everything from a butchery and frozen products to sauces and grains. But whether you’re a keen cook or not, you’ll be back to Tayba to eat (and eat and eat), especially if you’re after the real deal, no trip over the Red Sea neccessary. O Open Sun-Thu 5am-midnight, Fri-Sat 9am-2am. Tahlia Street, Al Olaya, @taybagourmetksa. (050 358 4666).36 SPRING 2025 TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM Sports & Outdoors 12 cutting-edge gyms and studios to elevate your fitness game Riyadh is buzzing with new fitness hot spots that redefine what it means to work out. These gyms and studios are not just places to break a sweat; they are triple (actually, quadruple) threats, combining luxury, tech, community and intense workouts in the best way. From ultra-luxe amenities to specialised training programmes, each facility offers something unique and its own vibe. Safe to say, we’re spoiled for choice in the capital. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or a total newbie, these gyms will change the game. So, grab your workout gear, your water bottle and a whole lot of determination. Here’s where to go. Core At Core, the goal is simple: become the best version of yourself. This homegrown gem offers personal training in a truly luxurious setting, complete with a gym, swimming pool and spa. Located in the Diplomatic Quarter, Core is a members-only facility that also focuses on rehabilitation for chronic injuries. Say goodbye to those pesky pains. If you fancy working out alone, you can rent a private space for an exclusive workout, too. A true VIP workout experience. O Open daily 6am–midnight. Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh. @core.riyadh. 9Round Get fit (the fancy way) Fit Pod Has working out in a shipping container ever cross your mind? Fit Pod’s innovative space in An Nada turns repurposed containers into fully equipped mini gyms. Book guided workout sessions without any long-term contracts, complete with all the essentials, from treadmills to weights. There are separate pods for men and women, too. Fit Pod is proof that good things come in small packages. O Open daily 6am–9am and 1pm–11pm. An Nada, Riyadh. @fitpodsaudi. Kayanee Kayanee is all about empowering women in fitness, and it’s backed by Her Royal Highness Princess Reema bint Bandar Al Saud. Located in the Diplomatic Quarter, this unique spot is the best of many worlds, combining a store, café and fitness studio all in one space. Here you’ll find a variety of yoga and dance classes in a calming atmosphere that make you feel part of a community. Oh, and your first class is free. O Open Sat-Thur 10am–10pm, Fri 3am–10pm. Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh. @kayaneeofficial. TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM SPRING 2025 37 Interval Plus Optimo If you’re looking for a holistic approach to fitness, look no further. With three fully equipped clubs across the Saudi capital, Optimo takes your holistic wellness journey to the next level. It all comes down to personalisation. Whether you’re into HIIT, core training or even water sports, Optimo has a team of professional trainers that will work with you to create a curated health plan that fits your lifestyle. With flexible hours, you can easily squeeze in a workout whenever suits. Dreamy. O Open Sat-Wed 6am–midnight, Fri 1pm-10pm. Various locations. @optimo_club. Tag Pod Another innovative gym concept, Tag Pod is designed to maximise your workout experience with its beautiful surroundings. Located in the Diplomatic Quarter’s Rock Park and KAFD, this pod gym features running and lifting equipment with stunning views to keep you motivated. With sessions starting from SAR149 for a group of three, Tag Pod is perfect for those who want to sweat it out with their mates. O Open daily 5am–midnight. Al Safarat and KAFD. @tagpod.sa. Formé Looking for a zen spot to dive into Pilates? Formé is where it’s at. You may or may not have seen it on social media (the aesthetic will truly stop you in your scroll), but either way, you need to make a visit. This fabulous female-founded studio in Ar Rabi offers a mix of yoga and Pilates classes that cater to any and all skill levels. Whether you want a private session or to tackle one of the more intense workouts like ‘Tower Power’ or ‘Hardcore 75’, they’ve got you covered. Plus, members can access a treasure trove of on- demand workout videos, perfect for those busy days when you just can’t make it in. O Open Sun-Thur 9am–9pm, Fri 9am–8pm, Sat 12pm-4:30pm. Ar Rabi. @formewellness.sa. The PAC Head over to Al Malqa for a workout at The PAC. This place is all about finding that sweet balance, offering everything from high-octane spinning to Pilates sessions. With a calming vibe (and a refreshing selection of PAC shakes), it’s the perfect spot to unwind after pushing your limits. Whether you want to break a sweat or relax, bookmark this one for a day out with your mates. O Open Sun-Thu 1pm–1am, Sat 7pm–11pm, Al Malqa. @thepac.sa. 9Round If you’re craving a high-energy workout that packs a punch, 9Round is the place to be. This kickboxing gym lets you crush a full- body workout in just 30 minutes, divided into nine three-minute rounds. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, it’s an awesome way to relieve some stress while getting fit. Plus, who doesn’t love a good kickboxing session? O Open Sat-Thu 6am–11pm, Fri 3pm–11pm. Various locations. @9roundksa. Stance Stance is a delightful blend of a Pilates studio and a wellness spa. They offer everything from mat and reformer classes to barre sessions, all in intimate settings that ensure you get personalised attention. And when you’re ready to pamper yourself (a must-do after a workout), their spa has luxurious treatments, including massages and facials to help you unwind. It’s the perfect retreat. O Open Sat-Thu 9am–9pm, Hittin. @stance.sa. Evox Ladies, Evox needs to be on your radar. This women-only club in U Walk has a fantastic range of classes, from yoga to strength training, all in a welcoming environment. With modern equipment and knowledgeable instructors, it’s designed to help you smash your fitness goals. Plus, memberships come with access to a sauna and relaxation lounge, making it a ‘treat yourself’ experience. O Open Sat-Thu 9am–9pm, Fri 1pm–10pm, U Walk. @EvoxClubs. Interval Plus Interval Plus is Riyadh’s first official CrossFit affiliate, and they really know how to bring the intensity. The 60-minute workouts are all about pushing your limits and getting the most out of your training. With locations in Takhassusi, Ar Rabi and Khurais, you’ll find a spot that suits you. Plus, trained professionals are there to help you create a personalised programme that fits your unique fitness goals. Get ready to challenge yourself. O Open Sun-Thu 3.30pm–1am, Fri 1pm–8pm, Sat 4pm–11pm. Various locations. @intervalplus. Kinetico Since opening its doors in 2009, Kinetico really knows how to blend classical exercise with modern movement. Whether you’re into yoga or Pilates, there’s a class with your name on it. The space is super luxurious, too — think Dyson hairdryers and Aesop products that up the elegance. Plus, if you’re an early bird, you’ll love the abundance of morning classes. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your day. O Open Sat-Thu 2pm–2am, Al Malqa, @kinetico_riyadh. 38 SPRING 2025 TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM Shopping Souq Al Zal It’s time to treat yourself Spend a day trawling through the city’s top souqs and bag yourself a bargain If you’re in need of retail therapy or after a traditional shopping experience that captures the essence of Riyadh, look no further than the city’s vibrant souqs. These bustling markets are some of the oldest in the capital, offering an array of goods that promise not only great deals, but also a glimpse into the rich culture and history of Saudi Arabia. Looking for fragrant perfumes? We got it. Exquisite textiles? They’re all here. There’s something for everyone in these charming marketplaces. It’s time to grab your shopping bags. Now, where to first? Almaigliah Souq If you’re on the hunt for a great scent without breaking the bank, Almaigliah Souq is your best bet. This lively souq is renowned for its impressive selection of perfumes, including traditional bukhoor, which consists of scented wood chips soaked in fragrant oils. Not only can you find enticing aromas here, but Almaigliah Souq also offers a variety of traditional clothing, including abayas and thobes, along with cosmetics, fabrics and more. A win all around. The atmosphere is buzzing in the evenings, making it a delightful place to wander and discover unique finds. Whether you’re looking for a new signature scent or a beautiful piece of traditional attire, you can spend hours browsing the stalls, chatting with friendly vendors and sampling various fragrances until you find the perfect item. O Al Maigliah District, Ad Dirah, Riyadh. Souq Al Owais Souq Al Owais is a fantastic starting point for anyone new to the souqs in Riyadh. This beautiful open market caters to a wide range of shopping needs. While it may initially seem focused on elegant gold and silver jewellery, a closer look reveals an abundance of abaya stores, textiles and stunning bishts (traditional cloaks worn by Saudi men). The tiny stalls here sell everything from delicious local foods to fashionable clothing. Be sure to bring a few riyals and brush up on your haggling skills; negotiating prices is all part of the fun. The friendly vendors are often happy to engage in a little back-and- forth. This is the spot to discover hidden treasures, such as unique handicrafts or one-of-a-kind accessories as you meander through the fascinating stalls. O Olaya St, King Fahd. Souq Al Thumairi If you’re eager to immerse yourself in local craftsmanship, Souq Al Thumairi is a must-visit. The narrow lanes of this souq are packed with boutique stores offering handmade jewellery, rugs, clothing, pots and even silverware. It’s one of the few places in the heart of old Riyadh where you can find authentic Saudi souvenirs. In addition to crafts, the souq is home to stalls selling fresh herbs, spices, coffee beans and saffron. If you’re looking to add some zest to your cooking, you’ll find everything you need here. Don’t forget to take a break at one of the many little food stalls, where you can refuel with some traditional Saudi coffee and delicious dates. The vibrant atmosphere and the scent of spices in the air bring all the vibes to your shopping adventure. O Souq Al Thumairi, Al Thumairi Street, Ad Dirah, Riyadh.TIMEOUTRIYADH.COM SPRING 2025 39 Top tips for shopping in souqs Bargain wisely Haggling is a common practice in souqs. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices, but do so respectfully. Start lower than the asking price and work your way up. Stay hydrated Riyadh can get quite hot, especially during the day. Make sure to drink plenty of water while you shop and take breaks in shaded areas. Dress comfortably Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you’ll likely be walking around for a while. Traditional attire is also welcome and adds to the experience. Explore beyond the stalls Take time to wander the narrow alleys and discover hidden gems. You never know what unique items you might find tucked away in a small corner. Enjoy local flavours Don’t miss out on trying local snacks and drinks available at various stalls. Sampling traditional foods enhances your shopping day out. Our advice? Try the Saudi coffee and dates. Souq Al Zal Souq Al Zal is a treasure trove for anyone interested in antiques, textiles and traditional artifacts. It’s the oldest and largest antique marketplace in Riyadh, boasting a rich cultural history that dates back to 1901. This souq, while particularly popular during Ramadan, draws visitors eager to explore its unique offerings any time of the year. Here, you can shop for musky oud perfumes, handmade camel leather slippers and traditional Arabic coffee pots (dallahs). The name “Souq Al Zal” translates to “carpet market,” and you’ll find a stunning selection of handwoven carpets in vibrant colors from around the world. The daily auction here is a highlight, featuring everything from antiques to accessories. Whether you’re looking for a special souvenir or a unique piece for your home, this souq promises interesting finds at every turn. The rich history and the variety of items available make it a fascinating stop on your shopping trip in the capital. O Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Ibrahim Street, Ad Dirah, Riyadh. The Date Souq For something truly special, and extraordinarily delicious, don’t miss the Date Souq. This market is the go-to spot for all things dates, offering a wide variety of colours, sizes, ripeness and sweetness levels. If you’re unsure where to start, we recommend trying the ajwa variety. Though they may be pricier than other options, these dates are exclusively grown in Madinah and are the most celebrated variety across Saudi Arabia. We guarantee that after trying just one, you’ll want another (oh, and another). The Date Souq is located just off Exit 14 in Riyadh and also features an array of fresh fruits and vegetables. The atmosphere is lively, making it a perfect place to wander and sample all things delicious. You can chat with vendors, learn about the different varieties and even taste a few samples before making your tasty purchase (don’t be shy). Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual fan, this souq is a sweet experience not to be missed. O Eastern Ring Branch Rd, Ar Rawabi, Riyadh. Souq Al OwaisNext >