Your Guide to the Top Cultural Festivals in Saudi Arabia During Fall and Winter

Winter is here, and it’s alive with energy. As the scorching summer heat gives way to cooler breeze, Saudi Arabia transforms into a hub of cultural experiences, music heritage and art. Fall and winter are the best seasons to see the kingdom’s growing lineup of festivals. Each one gives modern entertainment with centuries old traditions. Are you a lover of art, food, literature or heritage? Here's your guide to the most exciting cultural festivals to catch this season.

Riyadh Season

When: October – March

Where: Riyadh

Riyadh Season, the largest cultural event in Saudi Arabia, is a movement - a movement not just an event. Event planners suggest moving from concerts featuring the best global talent to food and beverage festivals, fashion shows, theatre performances, esports competitions, and big events like MDLBEAST Soundstorm and the Riyadh Comedy Festival. Importing global headliners in conjunction with local talent transforms Riyadh into an international cultural capital during the temperate months.

Winter at Tantora (AlUla Season)

When: December – February

Where: Al-Ula

Located in the stunning sandstone canyons of AlUla and Hegra - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Winter at Tantora is an enchanting experience imbued with cultural and heritage perspectives in the arts. Stargazing in the desert, riding in hot-air balloons, and towering exhibitions celebrate the ancient and exquisitely beautiful yet ubiquitous and eternal. Rising global musicians complete the festival but the magic of the event remain indigenous folkloric performances worthy of its homeland.

Jeddah International Book Fair

When: December

Where: Jeddah

Bookworms rejoice! This Book Fair is a literary celebration showcasing thousands of publications from around the globe. And on the other side, endless bookshelves, you can find cultural seminars, art displays and performances showing Saudi folklore. It’s also a great chance to connect with authors and publishers from across the Arab world.

AlUla Camel Cup

When: Winter (dates vary)

Where: Al-Ula

Camel racing is a key aspect of the cultural heritage of Saudi Arabia. The AIUIa Camel Cup enhances the tradition of camel racing with live entertainment, fashion shows, family-friendly areas and cultural programming in conjunction with the racing event. While everything is festive, the cultural significance connected to the event keeps it from becoming lost in the entertainment of a race sporting event. The AlUla Camel Cup presents camel racing as a genuine celebration of Saudi identity.

Saudi Feast Food Festival

When: Late November – Early December

Where: Riyadh

Food enthusiasts rejoice! The Saudi Feast Food Festival brings together flavors from all over the Kingdom. You’ll enjoy flavors from both traditional Najdi cuisine to contemporary Saudi fusion. Live cooking shows, culinary art showcases, and hands-on workshops with star chefs deliver a true feast for the senses.

Islamic Solidarity Games

When: 7 – 21 November 2025

Where: Riyadh

It is a major multi-sport event that brings together athletes from the entire Islamic world. While sports take the spotlight, cultural programs, ceremonies, and celebrations totally make it a global dynamic event.

In Saudi Arabia, fall and winter are more than a change in temperature; they are a time for celebration. Each festival, from the vibrant experience in Riyadh to the enchanting scenery in AIUIa, brings to life a new facet of the Kingdom, or on the other hand you can be a complete outsider to the Kingdom, it makes no difference at all you'll enjoy it no matter what. Therefore, if you have been waiting for your moment to see Saudi Arabia, this is your moment, so book your tickets and hotels, and pack your bags and immerse yourself in the cultural heartbeat of the Kingdom.