Riyadh is poised to emerge as a premier New Year’s Eve destination in the Middle East, offering an array of immersive experiences, luxurious accommodations, and intimate gatherings under the starlit desert sky..
Athwifa Saleem
New Year’s Eve in Riyadh is a glittering jewel in the crown of Saudi Arabia‘s social calendar, a celebration that marries traditional Saudi culture with the modern world. The city’s streets and skyscrapers come alive with a kaleidoscope of lights and colors, as residents and visitors gather to usher in the new year with style and panache.
From lavish galas at Riyadh‘s five-star hotels to intimate gatherings at bustling restaurants and cafes, there is a New Year’s Eve celebration to suit every taste and budget in the Saudi capital. Whether you are seeking a night of glamour and excitement or a more subdued evening of reflection and celebration, there’s something for everyone this New Year’s Eve in Riyadh.
African Lounge
As one of Riyadh’s most unique and beautiful establishments, African Lounge channels the raw and majestic beauty of the African plains in the Saudi capital. Re-open for the season, after a summer closure, the stunning rooftop lounge is the perfect spot to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Riyadh, with views over Ad Diriyah, glittering Bujairi Terrace and an elevated and exclusive atmosphere. Come for food inspired by the flavours of the African continent and creative beverages using fresh and complex ingredients like rooibos and kumquat.
@african__lounge
The Globe, Al Faisaliah Hotel
Nestled in the dazzling golden orb that crowns Al Faisaliah Tower, now occupied by the shiny Mandarin Oriental Hotel, The Globe offers a remarkable New Year’s Eve each year. The coveted restaurant in the sky invites you to a memorable celebration with live music and a curated set menu. In this stunning three-story dome, you can savor exquisite modern European cuisine specialties while admiring panoramic views and the spectacular fireworks that light up the city.
Prices begin at SAR 550, from 7.00 pm until early morning, mandarinoriental.com
A Glamorous Cruise-themed soirée at LPM Riyadh
As the year draws to a close, LPM Riyadh invites you to join a glamorous Cruise-themed New Year’s Eve soirée. Step back in time to the 1910s – a period when majestic ocean liners dominated the high seas. The refined celebration will evoke the elegant experience of the first-class passengers aboard these vessels, capturing the essence of vintage luxury and their timeless charm. LPM classics will complement seasonal festive specials – creating a splendid gastronomic affair. Guests are welcome to reserve a table from 6:30 pm onwards on 31st December to enjoy the dazzling event, featuring a DJ, lavish decorations, and LPM’s gastronomy – paying tribute to the splendour of life on board a prestigious cruise liner while welcoming 2024.
From 6:30pm. A minimum spend is required for reservations. lpmrestaurants.com
Riyadh Boulevard
As the clock strikes midnight and the world welcomes the new year, Riyadh Boulevard transforms into a glittering spectacle of lights, Arabian music, and revelry. This vibrant entertainment hub, nestled in the heart of Saudi Arabia’s capital, offers an unforgettable New Year’s Eve experience that caters to every taste and preference. Alongdise light shows and live music, Riyadh Boulevard’s diverse array of restaurants and cafes delight guests with culinary adventures – including special New Year’s Eve menus. The boulevard embraces the spirit of togetherness, ensuring that families can create cherished memories on New Year’s Eve in Riyadh. What’s more, art exhibitions, interactive installations and thought-provoking displays will all feature, transporting visitors to a world of wonder and creativity.
Immerse Yourself In Various Adventure Sports Across The Dunes
For those seeking a more refined and exhilarating New Year’s Eve experience, Riyadh offers a plethora of daring desert activities amidst its stunning dunes. Dune bashing is a thrilling adventure that combines off-road driving with expert manoeuvring, providing an adrenaline rush like no other. Camel riding offers a more leisurely yet equally unforgettable experience, allowing you to explore the majestic desert landscape at a slower pace. And for those seeking a truly immersive New Year’s Eve celebration, Arabian camping offers the opportunity to experience the magic of the desert under the stars, with traditional food, music, and entertainment.
The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh
Nestled in a sprawling 52-acre estate, The Ritz-Carlton Riyadh is the ultimate destination for your New Year’s holiday in Saudi Arabia. This lavish hotel offers a royal experience with its exquisite facilities and elegant design. As one of the most prestigious five-star hotels in Riyadh, The Ritz-Carlton spoils you with a tempting array of amenities. Each room of this tranquil hotel showcases a palatial setting and radiates luxury with its refined décor. The hotel features several sumptuous restaurants and lounges, serving you a delectable experience. Savour the traditional flavours of this Arabian nation and make the eve special and unique by indulging in the refreshing zest of exotic spices. No official calendar of events has been unveiled yet, but the hotel is known for hosting a glittering gala dinner each year – so stay tuned.
ritzcarlton.com
