Insights

Saudi Arabia has long been known for its out-of-the-box thinking, especially when it comes to its ambitious staycation destinations. One of the most exciting developments is the highly anticipated Desert Rock resort, located along the Red Sea coast as part of the groundbreaking NEOM project. This unique resort promises a luxurious yet immersive experience, blending seamlessly into its desert surroundings while offering state-of-the-art amenities.

The Saudi capital is set to dazzle once again as Riyadh Fashion Week returns for its second edition in mid-October 2024. Fashion lovers and industry leaders alike can look forward to five days of creativity, luxury, and groundbreaking design, all courtesy of the Kingdom’s finest fashion minds. Running from October 17 to 21, 2024, the event is hosted by the Ministry of Culture’s Fashion Commission, further establishing Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning role in the global fashion scene. The showcase will feature a rich blend of haute couture, ready-to-wear, menswear, and womenswear, giving both established and emerging designers a prominent platform to present their latest collections.

Brazilian football star Neymar and his partner, Brazilian model and influencer Bruna Biancardi, have recently joined forces with Saudi perfume brand Ibrahim Al-Qurashi for an exciting new campaign.

Saudi Arabia has cemented its position as a global leader in tourism, recording the highest growth among G20 nations during the first seven months of 2024. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Kingdom witnessed a staggering 73% increase in international tourist arrivals, a significant achievement that underscores the country’s growing appeal as a major travel destination.

Held from November 28 to December 14, 2024, the King Abdulaziz Falconry Festival is the largest gathering of falconers globally, attracting participants from Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Cooperation Council. The festival features two major competitions: The Milwah Race and The Mazayen Beauty Contest, with competitors vying for prestigious awards such as the King Abdulaziz Cups and the King’s Sword.

Riyadh is preparing to make history in the music world with the announcement of the first-ever Billboard Arabia Music Awards (BBAMAs), set to take place on December 11, 2024. The highly anticipated event will be held at the King Fahd Cultural Center, marking a significant moment in the region’s cultural scene as part of the city’s inaugural Riyadh Music Week.

Saudi Arabia has successfully secured the bid to host the United Nations World Data Forum in Riyadh in 2026, an achievement led by the Saudi General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT). This was the result of a highly competitive selection process, where Saudi Arabia was chosen by the High-level Group for Partnership, Coordination, and Capacity-Building for Statistics for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

In a landmark move to celebrate and promote Arabic literature, the Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA), Turki bin Abdulmohsen Alalshikh, inaugurated the website for the prestigious "Golden Pen Award for Most Influential Literature" during a ceremony held in Riyadh. This award, a first from the GEA, aims to transform outstanding literary works into cinematic productions, reflecting the growing synergy between literature and film in the Arab world.

Adidas, the global sportswear giant, is embracing diversity and inclusivity with its latest collaboration, this time with Saudi multidisciplinary artist Raghad Al-Ahmad. Together, they have unveiled the Bloom Sky Collection, a range of high-quality sportswear that merges Adidas’ innovation with Al-Ahmad’s artistic vision, celebrating Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Since launching her label in 2011, Daneh Buahmad has made waves in the fashion industry with her distinct blend of effortless chic and modern design. A Dubai-based Saudi Arabian designer, Buahmad’s creations have drawn attention across borders, capturing the imaginations of fashion enthusiasts and industry leaders alike. Her brand, Daneh Design, is recognized for transforming luxurious textiles into a contemporary wardrobe, while maintaining a deep respect for her Saudi heritage. This thoughtful approach has earned her features in prestigious publications such as Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and Marie Claire, solidifying her place among the region’s most celebrated designers.

Here are the dates to save for Riyadh Season 2024. The events are thrilling and not to be missed, from sports to fashion.

Riyadh Season is set to return with an enchanting new attraction that will captivate fans of all ages—the “Harry Potter Experience”. This year, a 25,000-square-meter park, dedicated to the magical world created by J.K. Rowling, will be one of the most exciting additions to the festival.