Riyadh Season 2026 is set to be the most spectacular edition yet of Saudi Arabia's flagship entertainment festival. Running from October through March, this year's festival promises an unprecedented lineup of international artists, immersive experiences, and world-class attractions that will transform the Saudi capital into the entertainment hub of the Middle East.
Now in its seventh year, Riyadh Season has grown from a local celebration into a global phenomenon, attracting millions of visitors from around the world. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your Riyadh Season experience.
What's New in 2026
This year's edition introduces several groundbreaking additions that set it apart from previous seasons. The festival has expanded to 15 distinct zones across the city, each offering a unique theme and experience.
- Boulevard World — The iconic Boulevard has been reimagined with new international pavilions representing 30 countries
- Combat Zone — A new dedicated area for WWE events and combat sports
- Winter Wonderland — An indoor snow park and winter village experience
- The Venue — A state-of-the-art 45,000-capacity arena for headline concerts
- Via Riyadh — A luxury dining and shopping destination with rooftop experiences
Headline Performances
Riyadh Season 2026 boasts an incredible lineup of international artists across all genres. While the full schedule is still being announced, confirmed headliners include some of the biggest names in global entertainment.
"Riyadh Season has become one of the most important dates on the global entertainment calendar. The scale and ambition is unlike anything else in the world." — Industry Executive
Concert tickets typically go on sale 4-6 weeks before each performance through the official Riyadh Season app and website. Premium packages with VIP access, meet-and-greets, and exclusive experiences are also available for select shows.
Zones and Experiences
Boulevard Riyadh City
The heart of Riyadh Season, Boulevard Riyadh City features restaurants, cafes, live entertainment, and the famous dancing fountain. This year, the boulevard has been expanded with new themed areas including a Japanese village and Mediterranean quarter.
Riyadh Zoo
The transformed Riyadh Zoo offers family-friendly entertainment with animal encounters, educational exhibits, and immersive safari experiences. Night safaris are a highlight, offering a unique way to experience wildlife.
Al Murabba
The historic Al Murabba district comes alive with cultural programming, traditional performances, and heritage exhibitions that celebrate Saudi Arabia's rich history and traditions.
Essential Information
- Dates: October 2025 - March 2026
- Locations: 15 zones across Riyadh
- Tickets: Available on riyadhseason.sa
- Transport: Free shuttle buses between zones
- Entry: Some zones free, others require tickets
Tips for Visitors
To make the most of your Riyadh Season experience, here are our top recommendations:
- Download the App — The official Riyadh Season app is essential for tickets, schedules, and navigation
- Book Accommodation Early — Hotels fill up quickly, especially during major concert weekends
- Plan Your Zones — With 15 zones to explore, prioritize based on your interests
- Visit Weekdays — Weekends are significantly busier; weekday visits offer a more relaxed experience
- Dress Comfortably — You'll be doing a lot of walking; comfortable shoes are essential
Getting There
Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport serves as the main gateway, with direct flights from major cities worldwide. The city has also expanded its transportation infrastructure with new metro lines connecting key festival zones.
Visitors from GCC countries can drive to Riyadh, with ample parking available at each zone. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem operate throughout the city and are a convenient option for getting between zones.
Final Thoughts
Riyadh Season 2026 represents the continued evolution of Saudi Arabia's entertainment landscape. Whether you're coming for the headline concerts, family attractions, or cultural experiences, this year's festival offers something for everyone.
Start planning your visit now to secure the best accommodation and tickets for the events you don't want to miss. We'll continue updating this guide as more announcements are made throughout the season.