Here's Your Guide to a Lavish New Year in Saudi Arabia

New Year is a time of dazzling celebrations and unforgettable experiences. Saudi Arabia is soon becoming a destination that takes New Year festivities to the next level. Blending its rich traditions with modern festivities, the country promises an unparalleled experience. As the year comes close to an end, a unique magic sweeps across the country. While Saudi Arabia initially did not celebrate New Year, today its grandeur is incomparable. From grand fireworks displays and lively gatherings to beachside celebrations, the country offers so many ways to embrace the spirit of renewal and transition. Get ready for a memorable entry into 2026 but in Saudi style!

History of New Year Celebration in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia did not celebrate the New Year initially, as the Kingdom primarily observed the Hijri (Islamic) calendar. However, renowned cities like Riyadh and Jeddah have taken the initiative to make the event as special as possible since 2019. From luxury to hospitality to leisure, the nation offers you the ideal staycation for New Year away from the commotion and rush. The vibrant capital, Riyadh, rings in the new year with a sky-bound message of fireworks and a wide range of modest cultural activities and entertainment alternatives to enthrall the crowd. Saudi New Year celebration is already gaining popularity across the globe and is anticipated to become among the top NYE destinations in the future.

Top Places to Celebrate New Year in Saudi Arabia

1. Riyadh

Riyadh transforms into the festive heartbeat of Saudi Arabia during New Year's Eve. The city buzzes with remarkable energy, offering an impressive selection of events that cater to every taste. Boulevard Riyadh City is the main hub of festivities, featuring family-friendly attractions and activities. Here, you can enjoy live music, engaging games, and magnificent fireworks displays that light up the night sky.

Popular Spots to Visit:

• A.O.K Kitchen hosts special festive menus, live bands, and confetti at midnight
• ROKA Riyadh and Zuma Riyadh for sophisticated dining experiences
• Kingdom Centre Tower and Faisaliah Tower offer unparalleled views of fireworks

2. Jeddah

Sitting along the Red Sea, Jeddah presents a different facet of Saudi Arabia's allure. The historic district of Al-Balad offers a journey back in time with its ancient coral stone houses and bustling souqs. During the New Year, Jeddah Corniche comes alive with art installations, family-friendly activities, and recreational opportunities. For those seeking a blend of history, culture, and coastal relaxation, Jeddah is an ideal spot to ring in the New Year.

Things to Do:

• Watch fireworks displays from Jeddah Corniche
• Explore seafood restaurants for fresh and delicious culinary experience
• Go on a boat trip on the Red Sea to see the cityscape from different perspective

3. AlUla

For an utterly unique and serene start to the New Year, look no further than AlUla. This ancient oasis, home to Hegra (Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site), offers an unparalleled journey through millennia of history and breathtaking natural beauty. Imagine witnessing the majestic rock formations of Jabal Ikmah, exploring the ancient city of Dadan, or marveling at the preserved tombs of Hegra, all under the crisp winter sky. AlUla is perfect for couples seeking a romantic and reflective escape, or friends keen on historical exploration and outdoor adventures like stargazing in the pristine desert. The luxury resorts and unique glamping experiences in AlUla offer a tranquil yet opulent way to welcome the new year, away from urban clamor.

Activities to Try this New Year in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia boasts the largest sand desert on earth, offering an array of adventure sports, sourcing the adrenaline rush. Here are a few of the most loved adventure sports to enjoy during your New Year trip to Saudi Arabia:

• Explore Historical Sites and UNESCO Heritage

Saudi Arabia is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological wonders. Beyond AlUla's Hegra, visitors can explore the historical heart of Diriyah, the birthplace of the first Saudi state, near Riyadh. These sites provide a powerful connection to the region's rich past and offer invaluable insights into its heritage. Guided tours are often available, enriching the experience with expert commentary and historical context. A walk through these ancient ruins offers a reflective start to the year, appreciating the continuity of human history.

• Dune Bashing

Dune bashing is one of the best things to do in Saudi Arabia during New Year. This thrilling activity involves navigating sandy hills at varying speeds and requires skillful handling and balancing of vehicles. The excitement comes from the combination of speed, steep dunes, and the ever-shifting desert terrain.

• Camel Riding

For a more relaxing experience, try camel riding during your New Year trip to Saudi Arabia. Since camels have been an integral part of life on the peninsula, used for primary functioning, from transportation to providing milk and meat. Saddle up on a camel and go around to explore.

• Arabian Camping

To make your New Year 2026 even more special, consider Arabian camping. Immerse yourself in the authentic Arabian night experience by sleeping among the sand dunes under the starlit sky. Wake up to the Arabian mornings with the traditional coffee and authentic breakfast being served to the guests.

• Shop for Souvenirs and Local Crafts

No trip is complete without bringing home a piece of Saudi Arabia from its souqs (traditional markets) and modern malls. In the souqs, you can bargain for exquisite handmade carpets, traditional perfumes, spices, gold, and local handicrafts. Modern malls, especially in Riyadh and Jeddah, house international brands and luxury goods.

Popular Hotels for New Year in Saudi Arabia

Listed below are the hotels in Saudi Arabia with state-of-the-art facilities, top-notch amenities, and staff that will ensure that promise an unforgettable staycation during New Year:

• Radisson Blu Hotel, Riyadh

When looking for the perfect place for a memorable new year in Riyadh, plan a staycation with family in the iconic Arabian architecture. Enjoy lavish interiors and five-star amenities, including concierge service, health clubs, a sauna room, Jacuzzis, and spa services. Indulge in fine dining options at Café Shogun and Olivio's, making your stay truly special. It is also known for hosting special New Year events in Riyadh, combining a wide range of activities to make the celebrations all the more engaging and exciting!

• Qasr Al Sharq

Take a break from work and indulge in the opulent ambience and exceptional hospitality of Qasr Al Sharq, located in the center of Jeddah. The best thing about the hotel is that guests get to enjoy the ultimate luxury of a personal butler, who would cater to all the requirements and requests made by the guest.

• Four Seasons Riyadh Kingdom Centre

Enjoy the chic rooms with luxe amenities, including a minibar and international satellite, during your celebration of New Year in Saudi Arabia, located in Riyadh's prestigious location. The hotel offers extensive, ultra-tech meeting spaces. Superb contemporary cuisine and the highly personalized service of Four Seasons.

Top Spas and Hammam to Visit in Saudi Arabia

For those looking for a unique and decent Riyadh New Year celebration, spas are an ultimate luxury option to go for. Optimized to waver off the stress and tensions from mind and body, spa and hammam services help you relax and spiritually connect with the best of yourself. Is there anything better than starting your New Year 2025 in Saudi Arabia with perfect spa and hammam sessions? Here’s a list of the top spas and hammams to consider:

• The Spa at Shangri-La Jeddah

The Spa at Shangri-La Jeddah is a serene wellness haven that blends Asian traditions with advanced treatments. Its offerings include Natura Bissé rituals, Moroccan hammam, sauna, Jacuzzi and dedicated men’s and women’s zones.

• Al Faisaliah Spa by ESPA

Located at Mandarin Oriental Faisaliah Riyadh, Al Faisaliah Spa by ESPA is a luxurious, women-only sanctuary. It provides holistic therapies, heat experiences, beautifully designed relaxation areas, and premium ESPA treatments.

• The Maison Joelle

The spa center is one of the most famous places for rejuvenation, divided into two sections, one for makeup and the other for services. Get a makeover while you are here in Saudi Arabia for New Year 2026.

Lounges to Party During New Year in Saudi Arabia

While there aren't many places to go out at night during the Saudi Arabia New Year celebration, there are a few lounges and restaurants that may make your New Year's celebrations fantastic and fairly lively. A few of the top lounges to consider for a New Year party in Saudi Arabia are:

• Al-Fursan Lounge, Jeddah
• Piano Lounge, Riyadh
• Warm and Frosty Specialty Cafe, Jeddah
• White Sand Lounge - Saudi Aramco, Ras Tanura

As we bid farewell to 2025 and eagerly anticipate the adventures and opportunities that await in the New Year, it's an ideal time for a trip to Saudi Arabia. From its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage to the warm hospitality of its people, New Year in Saudi Arabia holds the promise of unforgettable moments. If you are looking to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, book one of our Saudi Arabia tour packages and make 2026 a year of exciting new beginnings and memorable experiences!

FAQ's - New Year in Saudi Arabia