Saudi Arabia, a country known for its deep-rooted traditions and rich cultural heritage, has been transforming into a hub for celebrations that blend history with modernity. In recent years, the Kingdom has not only preserved its traditional festivals but has also opened up to large-scale global events, attracting millions of visitors from around the world. With a unique blend of religious, cultural, and modern festivals, Saudi Arabia offers a diverse range of experiences for locals and tourists alike. Let’s go through the top festivals in Saudi Arabia.
1. Eid al-Fitr
One of the most important Islamic festivals in Saudia Arabia, Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual reflection. Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is a month-long observance when all locals indulge in prayers, fasting and charity. Followed by it, the Eid al-Fitr is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Families come together to enjoy feasts, exchange gifts, and give charity to those in need. The entire country is filled with a festive spirit, with colorful decorations, lights, and fireworks illuminating the skies. Mosques are packed with worshippers offering special prayers, and the streets are abuzz with people donning new clothes and sharing festive meals.
What Happens:
- Special Eid prayers in mosques.
- Traditional feasts featuring dishes like lamb kabsa, dates, and sweets like maamoul.
- Charity and community-driven events, reinforcing the importance of helping the less fortunate.
2. Eid al-Adha
Eid al-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is another major religious festival celebrated by Muslims worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, it coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam. Pilgrims from across the globe gather in Makkah to perform the Hajj rituals, while those not on pilgrimage celebrate Eid al-Adha with prayers and the sacrifice of an animal, typically a sheep, goat, or cow, in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah.
What Happens:
- Large crowd prayers.
- Animal sacrifices, the meat of which is distributed among family, friends, and the poor.
- Pilgrims performing Hajj in Makkah, a significant spiritual event for Muslims worldwide.
3. Janadriyah National Festival
The Janadriyah Festival, also known as the National Heritage and Culture Festival, is one of Saudi Arabia’s most prominent cultural events. Held annually in the outskirts of Riyadh, the festival showcases the Kingdom’s rich heritage, from traditional crafts to folk music and dance. Organized by the Saudi National Guard, the festival aims to preserve and promote the cultural traditions of the Kingdom, featuring everything from camel races to exhibitions of art, cuisine, and traditional Saudi life.
What Happens:
- Camel races, a thrilling spectacle for attendees.
- Displays of traditional handicrafts, poetry, and literature.
- Performances of Saudi folk music and dances like the Al-Ardha.
- Cultural pavilions representing different regions of the country.
4. Riyadh Season
One of the newer additions to the Saudi festival calendar, Riyadh Season is a multi-month entertainment extravaganza that transforms the capital city of Riyadh into a hub of concerts, sporting events, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals. Riyadh Season is part of the Vision 2030 initiative to boost tourism and entertainment in the country. The event hosts international performers, celebrity chefs, and world-class shows, drawing in millions of visitors. Festivals in Riyadh Saudi Arabia are beautiful and unique on another level, so do give them a try.
What Happens:
- Global musical performances, featuring international stars.
- Themed zones with immersive experiences, like Winter Wonderland and Boulevard World.
- Art exhibitions, food festivals, and cultural displays.
- Exciting sports events, from football matches to Formula E races.
5. Jeddah Season
Launched as part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Jeddah Season is another vibrant festival aimed at promoting the country’s tourism sector. Held in the coastal city of Jeddah, this festival offers a wide range of activities, from beach events and watersports to concerts, fireworks displays, and street performances. Jeddah Season provides a platform for international artists to perform alongside local talent, enhancing the city’s position as a cultural and entertainment destination.
What Happens:
- Beach parties and water sports on the Red Sea coast.
- Music festivals featuring renowned Arab and international artists.
- Street food festivals showcasing local and global cuisine.
- Firework displays that light up the Jeddah skyline.
6. Al-Ula Winter at Tantora Festival
Set amidst the ancient desert landscape of Al-Ula, the Winter at Tantora Festival is a unique celebration of art, culture, and history. Al-Ula, home to Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site, Hegra, hosts this festival every winter. As per the Saudi Arabia travel guide, Al Ula is a must-visit destination. Visitors can enjoy a range of cultural activities, including concerts, art exhibitions, and light shows, all set against the stunning backdrop of Al-Ula’s sandstone mountains and ancient tombs.
What Happens:
- Concerts held in the majestic Maraya Concert Hall, featuring international and regional artists.
- Hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of the desert.
- Cultural and historical tours of Al-Ula’s archaeological sites.
- Art installations that blend modern creativity with the area’s ancient heritage.
7. Saudi National Day
Every year on September 23rd, Saudi Arabia celebrates its National Day to mark the unification of the Kingdom by King Abdulaziz in 1932. The entire country comes alive with national pride, with events taking place in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Streets are adorned with flags, and people dress in the national colors of green and white. The day is filled with cultural performances, parades, and fireworks, with Saudis celebrating their heritage and the achievements of the Kingdom.
What Happens:
- Parades and military shows across major cities.
- Traditional dance performances like the Al-Ardha.
- Fireworks and light shows illuminating iconic landmarks.
- Special cultural exhibitions and art displays.
8. Saudi Film Festival
The Saudi Film Festival is an emerging cultural event that celebrates the art of cinema in the Kingdom. As Saudi Arabia opens up its film industry, this festival provides a platform for local and international filmmakers to showcase their work. Held in Dhahran at the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), the festival has become a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s growing film industry, featuring screenings, workshops, and discussions about the future of Saudi cinema.
What Happens:
- Film screenings showcasing local and international films.
- Workshops on filmmaking, scriptwriting, and production.
- Panel discussions with industry experts and filmmakers.
- Awards recognizing the best in Saudi and regional cinema.
9. King Abdulaziz Camel Festival
Camels hold a special place in Saudi culture, and the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival is a testament to that. This month-long Saudi Arabia festival, held in the desert near Riyadh, is the world’s largest camel festival. It celebrates the historical significance of camels in Saudi life, with events like camel beauty contests, races, and auctions. Visitors can also explore cultural exhibitions that highlight Bedouin life and the role of camels in the Arabian Peninsula.
What Happens:
- Camel beauty contests, where camels are judged on their appearance.
- Thrilling camel races with significant cash prizes.
- Cultural exhibitions showcasing Bedouin traditions.
- Camel auctions that attract buyers from across the Gulf region.
10. Ad Diriyah E-Prix
As part of Saudi Arabia’s push towards sustainability and renewable energy, the Ad Diriyah E-Prix, a Formula E event, has gained global attention. Held in the historic city of Diriyah, this electric car race is part of the Formula E championship and draws motorsport enthusiasts from around the world. The event is not just about racing but also includes live music, cultural events, and entertainment, creating an exciting atmosphere for attendees.
What Happens:
- Formula E races featuring electric-powered cars.
- Concerts with international artists performing at the event.
- Cultural activities and exhibitions in the UNESCO-listed Diriyah.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s festival scene is a reflection of the country’s rich history, religious significance, and modern aspirations. From centuries-old traditions like Eid and camel races to modern extravaganzas like Riyadh Season and Formula E, these festivals showcase the Kingdom’s diversity and ambition. For travelers planning to experience these vibrant festivals firsthand, it’s essential to understand the processing time for Saudi tourist visa. The process typically varies based on the type of visa, but for a standard tourist e-visa, applicants can often expect approval within 24 to 72 hours. For other visa types, such as business or work visas, the processing time may range from several days to a few weeks, depending on the documentation and the applicant’s nationality. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, experiencing these festivals offers a unique glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s evolving cultural landscape.
A travel influencer, adventurer and blogger on a mision to dicover the hidden gems of this beautiful planet. For me traveling isn’t a hobby, but a way of living.
