December doesn’t fail to bring a smile to your face. It’s winter, a month of celebrations, festivity, and has some of the hottest events and happenings among things to do in Riyadh.
So make the most of the last month of the year and bring 2025 to a memorable close. And to help you make each day a little merrier, here is our exhaustive list of the best things to do in Riyadh this December.
Best things to do in Riyadh this December
A Gatsby-style afternoon tea and NYE Midnight Gala at The Ritz-Carlton
This December is going to keep you busy at The Ritz-Carlton with their scintillating events.
Indulge in Sereni-Tea: The Great Gatsby – a refined afternoon tea at Chorisia Lounge. Inspired by The Great Gatsby theme, expect a refined spread of savouries and sweet treats inspired by the story. The setting adds to the drama, with props from the 1920s to ensure you have an unforgettable experience with your friends and family.
SAR150. Mon Dec 1-Wed Dec 31. 12pm-6pm. Chorisia Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, @theritzcarltonruh (+966 011 802 8333).
And direct all your New Year’s Eve plans to Azzurro Restaurant where you can take part in the Midnight Gala. Taking place by the pool, it’s where the countdown to 2026 begins with surprises and endless celebrations. Relish a five-course menu and be entertained by live entertainment, magic shows, a live band and a DJ.
SAR425 (adults), SAR215 (kids aged six to 12 years). Wed Dec 31. 8pm till late. Azzurro Restaurant, The Ritz-Carlton, @theritzcarltonruh (+966 011 802 8888).
Take kids to this cookie-making workshop
If you’re looking for fun activities for children among things to do in Riyadh, check out this cookie-making workshop at Minime Bakery & Playsafé. Conducted by Chef Ola Azhari, little ones will learn to measure and mix ingredients step-by-step, shape cookies and bake them under the chef’s supervision. The workshop is for ages five to 12 years. Every child will be given a complimentary drink.
SAR198. Thu Dec 4. 8pm-9pm. Al-Qirawan, @minime.sa.
Dine at the Saudi Feast Food Festival
It’s a feast like no other as the best flavours and delicacies from around the world come together for a culinary festival right here in Riyadh. The Saudi Feast Food Festival is running until Saturday December 6 at Abadi Aljohar Arena. Explore a diverse array of flavours, offering an experience that brings together more than 300 international dishes, presented by more than 100 restaurants spread across seven zones. Easily the best among foodie things to do in Riyadh this month.
From SAR15. Running until Sat Dec 6. 4pm-midnight. King Saud University, webook.com.
Follow raquet action at Padel League Finals
Padel fans have something exciting to look forward to among thing to do in Riyadh this December. The BSF Saudi French Bank Padel League Finals brings thrilling competitions in the game of padel. With a whopping prize money exceeding SAR1 million, you can expect to see the friendly neighbourhood game elevated to some stiff competition.
SAR20. Mon Dec 1-Sat Dec 6. Padel Rush, riyadh.platinumlist.net.
Explore international cultures at Suwaidi Park
Looking for a fun family activity among things to do in Riyadh this December? Head to Suwaidi Park where you can get a taste of the different cultures of the world with a variety of activities and experiences, featuring musical performances, traditional handicrafts and delicious native cuisines. The countries being featured are:
Indonesia: Tue Dec 2-Thu Dec 4
Philippines: Fri Dec 5-Mon Dec 8
Uganda: Tue Dec 9-Wed Dec 10
Ethiopia: Thu Dec 11-Sat Dec 13
Sudan: Sun Dec 14-Sat Dec 20.
Free. Running until Sat Dec 20. 4pm-1am. Suwaidi Park. webook.com.
Taste delicious delights at International Coffee and Chocolate Exhibition
Coffee and chocolate lovers, assemble for this unmissable event among things to do in Riyadh this December. The biggest gathering of cocoa and coffee lovers, this annual expo brings together an elite line-up of producers and industry pros from around the globe. Expect more than 300 participants from more than 40 countries.
Spanning five days, it’s your ultimate spot for discovering new products and learning insider tips. Expect to see chocolate and coffee arts, workshops, competitions and cafés and shops churning out innovative creations. The event also features top-tier brands and you can expect to score great deals on purchases. Whether you’re a connoisseur or looking to sample new flavours, this is one exhibition you simply cannot miss.
SAR40. Tue Dec 2-Sat Dec 6. 6pm-11.30pm. Riyadh Front Exhibition and Convention Center, candcexpo.com.sa.
Sip and bite at the Tea and Snack Exhibition
If coffee is not your drink of choice and if you’re instead a tea lover, then the Tea and Snack Exhibition is a must on your list of things to do in Riyadh this month. Enjoy a complete sensory journey featuring a blend of international and local teas, along with a wide selection of snacks to suit all tastes. Tickets to this event also include entry to the International Coffee and Chocolate Exhibition.
SAR40. Tue Dec 2-Sat Dec 6. 6pm-11.30pm. Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center, Gate 1, riyadh.platinumlist.net.
Watch Broadway classic WICKED the Musical
Prepare to welcome the witches of Oz as the legendary Broadway musical WICKED drops in as one of the top events among things to do in Riyadh this month. Making its debut in the Middle East, you can catch the fascinating story with captivating performances. Known for their dazzling costumes, jaw-dropping sets, and a powerful soundtrack, WICKED promises a theatre experience unlike anything the region has seen before. The Riyadh shows will feature over 100 artists, technicians, and orchestra members, plus 350 show-stopping costumes.
From SAR100. Wed Dec 3-Sat Jan 3. 6pm-10.30pm. King Fahd Cultural Center. riyadh.platinumlist.net.
Attend Riyadh Music Week
Here’s a musical event with a difference among things to do in Riyadh. A series of events and activities celebrating all things music, the Riyadh Music Week is where you need to be at if you’re a serious buff. From XP Music Futures to musical gatherings and concerts, there’s a lot to look forward to.
Thu Dec 4-Sat Dec 13. Various locations, riyadhmusicweek.com.
Spend a day at Date World Exhibition
One of the most exciting spots to check out among things to do in Riyadh this month is the Date World Exhibition. Combining shopping, exploration and tasting experiences, it brings together events filled with arts, cultures, and the rich variety of Saudi date products. Explore pavilions showcasing the hospitality of each region: Riyadh, Al-Ahsa, Qassim, AlUla, Al-Madinah, Hail, and Al-Jouf. There’s also live cooking zones, handicrafts, museum, kids’ zone and restaurants and cafés.
Free. Running until Thu Dec 4. 4pm-11pm. King Saud University Campus, webook.com.
Check out the Saudi Indoor Rowing Championship
Returning for its second edition, the tournament makes a comeback in a larger format. This time, it’s held simultaneously in three cities across Saudi – Riyadh, Jeddah, and Qatif. This year’s championship is an inclusive contest, opening its doors to women, men and people with disabilities. Participants are divided into age groups as follows: under 19 years old, under 23 years old, adults – 30-39 years and masters 40-49.
Competitions are held using professional rowing equipment (Concept2) inside designated halls, and include individual and team races, with winners being awarded cash prizes.
SAR60. Fri Dec 5. 2pm-11pm. Al Aqiq, riyadh.platinumlist.net.
Own the stage at Level Up’s Open Mic Night
Add this creative activity to your list of things to do in Riyadh this month. It’s your time to shine. Bring out the poet, singer, actor or dancer in you at Level Up’s Open Mic night where you can unleash your inner creativity and talent in a warm and supportive vibe.
Fri Dec 5. 9pm-11pm. Hittin. @lvlupsocialhub.
Petrol-heads, gather at The Riyadh Motor Show
Here’s something exciting for auto lovers among things to do in Riyadh this December. One of the most awaited auto shows in the city, The Riyadh Motor Show more than 300 brands, super cars, classic and custom cars, and future mobility experiences. There will be live shows and other entertainment as well. Don’t miss out on adding it to your happening list of things to do in Riyadh this December.
Free. Tue Dec 9-Sat Dec 13. 4pm-11pm. Kingdom Arena, webook.com.
Watch international stars perform live at Soundstorm
The biggest music fest of the year is back this year and is the biggest musical event among things to do in Riyadh this month. Soundstorm is going to make Riyadh reverberate with three days of top-notch music from international music stars. Expect pulsating energy and non-stop music that’s going to shake up the city. Featuring more than 120 artists, Soundstorm has a stellar line-up with names like Cardi B, Armin van Buuren, Swedish House Mafia, Steve Aoki, Pitbull and Tyla.
From SAR499. Thu Dec 11-Sat Dec 13. Banban. nofomo.com, mdlbeast.com.
Catch some stellar horse show jumping at Saudi Jump Arena
Experience world-class jumping shows and live entertainment throughout the weekend at Saudi Jump Arena. Presented by Riyadh Tours, the event features show jumping competitions with elite international riders. You can also enjoy a variety of entertainment options at the venue, making it an action-packed activity among things to do in Riyadh this December.
SAR40. Thu Dec 11-Sat Dec 20. 8am-11pm. Jump Arena. riyadh.platinumlist.net.
Explore an interactive workshop By The Culture Mocktail
Join Culture Mocktail’s interactive workshop at Lakum Artspace, where they’ll help you explore and connect with your cultural identity. Their workshop is filled with interesting sociology and anthropology references, alongside solo and group exercises. You can also play a fun conversation-starter card game.
SAR100. Sat Dec 16. 3pm-6pm, Umm Al Hammam, @lakumartspace.
Learn about Chinese culture at Common Ground Festival
Add a dose of culture to your agenda of things to do in Riyadh this month. In its third edition, the Common Ground Festival celebrates showcases the rich Chinese art and culture to audiences in Riyadh. Bringing together Chinese and Saudi heritage, this is where you experience China through its art, cuisine, performances and designs.
Free. Wed Dec 24-Tue Jan 6. 4pm-10pm. Malfa Hall, Misk City, webook.com.
Make your own oud at this workshop
If you’re fascinated by oud-based fragrances and wish for something unique, check out the Make Your Own Oud Tola workshop where you can craft your own one-of-a-kind blend. Learn how to concoct a luxurious scent with distinctive ingredients and take home your own personal fragrance. Now that’s a keeper among things to do in Riyadh this month.
SAR58. Running until Sat Dec 27. Samhan, webook.com.
Taste culture at Layali Diriyah
If you’re looking for a beautiful way to spend the night in the city among things to do in Riyadh, head to Layali Diriyah where global flavours come together in a dreamy vibe. Savour dishes from world-class restaurants, where the dining experience is elevated with live performances.
SAR180. Running until Mon Mar 23. Diriyah, webook.com.
Craft handmade beauty at Synergy Art Hub
Are your hands itching to do something creative and artistic among things to do in Riyadh? Head to Synergy Art Hub, where you can shape unique pieces of art and take them home. Did you think a candle is just to be lit and forgotten? Think again. Check out the candle printing workshops, you can learn to decorate plain candles and elevate them to a piece of art. Or turn a boring old porcelain plate into a wall art with acrylic painting. Want to level up to something more advanced? Try your hand at the sculpture workshop. And there’s much more to suit your fancy.
Prices differ according to classes.
Sat-Thu noon-11.30pm, Fri 4pm-11.30pm. Diriyah, @synergy_art_hub.
Uncover Saudi creative voice at LET’S PLAY: A Labyrinth of Options
Explore the artworks of six Saudi artists – Arwa Alneami, Dur Kattan, Faisal Eissa Almashary, Nasser Al Turki, Rex Chouk and Saleh Mansour ALKhattab at Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art’s exhibition LET’S PLAY: A Labyrinth of Options. Through sound, sculpture, and interactive installations, their works trace movement and meaning – turning risk into dialogue, humour into critique and chance into a shared language.
Free. Running until Wed Dec 31. JAX District. @samocamoc.
Watch the dazzling light art at Noor Riyadh
Bringing together the finest light artworks from A-1 international and Saudi artists, Noor Riyadh 2025 has the theme of In The Blink of An Eye, inspired by Riyadh’s breakneck transformation. From its towering skyscrapers to the shiny metro system, the festival pays tribute to and mirrors Riyadh’s brisk evolution. Expect more than 60 jaw-dropping installations across multiple locations in the city, including historic sites and urban landmarks.
This year, the festival is held across six locations in Riyadh – Al-Hukm Palace district, King Abdulaziz Historical Center, stc Metro Station, King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) Station, Public Investment Fund Tower, and JAX District. This is easily a must-attend among things to do in Riyadh this December.
Free. Running until Sat Dec 6. 6pm-1am. Across Riyadh, riyadhart.sa @noorriyadhfestival.
