Riyadh Season 2025: Saudi’s capital turns into a city of lights, music, and culture

The highly anticipated Riyadh Season 2025, one of the world's largest entertainment festivals, has once again transformed Saudi Arabia's capital into a dazzling city of lights, music, culture and innovation.

Since its debut in 2019, Riyadh Season has become a key pillar of Saudi Arabia's entertainment and tourism industry. In line with the Kingdom's national development goals, the festival contributes to diversifying the economy beyond oil, fostering a vibrant cultural scene, creating new jobs and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global tourism destination.

Now in its sixth edition, Riyadh Season 2025 will continue until March next year, featuring more than 100 major attractions, 7,000 events, 15 international sports competitions and 34 major festivals.

Last year, the festival welcomed more than 20 million visitors from around the world, a number expected to rise further in 2025. For Bangladeshi families, it presents an extraordinary opportunity for an unforgettable holiday that blends entertainment, culture, sport and hospitality. As night falls, dazzling fireworks light up the desert sky while the sounds of celebration fill the air.

A spectacular opening

The festival began on 10 October with a grand parade along King Abdulaziz Road, featuring 25 giant floats, 25 towering balloons and more than 3,000 performers and dancers. The city was transformed into a carnival of lights, music and colour, capturing Riyadh's festive spirit.

For the first time, the opening parade included giant balloon displays inspired by the iconic Macy's Parade in the United States—marking a first in Saudi history.

Family fun and cultural celebration

For Bangladeshi families, dedicated family zones offer child-friendly rides, cartoon and magic shows and a wide variety of halal food options. Each zone is equipped with security personnel, medical centres, emergency desks and guidance services to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

At the heart of the festivities is Boulevard World, an international arena celebrating the cultures, cuisines and music of 24 countries. New themed areas this year include Indonesia, Kuwait and South Korea, featuring traditional performances, exhibitions and culinary experiences.

Boulevard World alone features 40 rides, 12 immersive experiences, 1,700 shops and 350 restaurants and cafés. Several areas, such as Boulevard Riyadh City, are open to the public free of charge.

Another major attraction is Beast Land, a new theme park inspired by content creator MrBeast, offering adventure-based games, challenges and interactive entertainment.

The Saudi Arena and Mohammed Abdu Arena serve as the main venues for concerts, live shows and major sporting events.

Easier access for travellers

Daily direct flights from Dhaka to Riyadh have made travel faster and more convenient. The Saudi visa process has also been simplified, allowing visitors to plan trips with ease.

Several Bangladeshi travel agencies are offering family-friendly packages that include air fare, accommodation and event passes at competitive prices.

Travel tips for visitors

• Dress comfortably for the warm desert weather.
• Book tickets and complete digital registration in advance.
• Plan local transport early, as shuttle services may be available.
• Respect local customs and dress codes.

Since its inception, Riyadh Season has firmly placed the Saudi capital on the global tourism map, offering visitors a spectacular blend of Arabian warmth, world-class entertainment and cultural wonder—a celebration where modernity meets tradition in every light and sound.