Riyadh Season 2024 Kicks Off on October 12
Last updated: 22 October 2026. Archive record: This page records news published ahead of the Riyadh Season 2024 opening in October 2024. It is kept as a historical record and is not a current announcement.
At the time, this was reported as exciting news for Riyadh visitors who loved to explore the Saudi capital that season. Thrill-seekers were told to mark their calendars for Riyadh Season 2024, which was set to ignite the Saudi capital with an explosion of entertainment, culture, and sports starting October 12.
The Saudi capital was set to host a mega annual festival that was expected to surpass all expectations, drawing in visitors from around the globe to experience the grandeur that only Riyadh Season could deliver. The previous season, Riyadh Season 2023, drew 20 million visitors, according to Saudi Gazette reporting of the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) figure. The 72 million figure sometimes quoted for 2023 was the GEA total across all of its events that year, not the total for Riyadh Season alone.
Readers were asked at the time to tell us in the comments which entertainment zone was their favourite. Was it the iconic Boulevard City, Boulevard World, Suwaidi Park, or any other? With an array of spectacular events lined up, that season was presented as a passport to a world of excitement, luxury, and unforgettable memories. Readers were also reminded to taste a variety of international cuisines at Boulevard City Restaurants and other special zones like Boulevard World.
A Season Like No Other: The Heartbeat of Riyadh
Since its inception in 2019, Riyadh Season had rapidly become the crown jewel of Saudi Arabia’s entertainment calendar by 2024. That year was no different, with organisers promising a line-up that would leave visitors breathless. The city was set to transform into a vibrant playground, with each corner offering a new adventure, from thrilling rides and world class performances to art installations and interactive exhibits.
According to Turki Al-Sheikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, speaking at the time: “Riyadh Season 2024 will be a celebration of our nation’s rich heritage and its dynamic future. We invite everyone to join us in Riyadh for an experience like no other.”
What Was Announced: A Look Back at the Highlights
That season was packed with events that catered to every taste and interest. Sports fans could look forward to the Bivol vs. Beterbiev boxing match on October 12, billed at the time as a battle of the titans, while tennis enthusiasts were promised the 6 Kings Slam tournament, featuring legends such as Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal. The festival was also set to showcase cultural performances, family friendly activities, and culinary experiences that celebrated the diversity of Saudi Arabia and the world.
Why Riyadh Season 2024 Was Described as Unmissable:
It was described at the time as more than just another festival: an immersive experience that captured the essence of Saudi Arabia’s transformation. Riyadh Season offered a unique opportunity to witness the blend of tradition and modernity, while taking part in a global celebration that put Riyadh at the centre of the world’s stage.
For those looking to explore beyond the scheduled events, the city itself offered a treasure trove of attractions. From the historic Diriyah district to the futuristic King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh was presented as a city where the past and future converge, offering endless possibilities for exploration and discovery.
How the Season Was Framed at the Time:
At the time, the countdown had begun and the excitement was palpable. Riyadh Season 2024 was described as more than an event: a movement, and a testament to Saudi Arabia’s vision of becoming a global hub for entertainment and culture. Whether local or visitor, readers were told it was their chance to be part of something extraordinary.
Readers were urged at the time to pack their bags, gather their friends, and get ready to immerse themselves in what was billed as the unparalleled magic of Riyadh Season 2024. It was presented not just as a festival, but as a once in a lifetime experience that readers simply could not afford to miss.
Riyadh Season 2024 was poised to be the most spectacular edition yet, offering an unparalleled blend of entertainment, culture, and innovation. As the city prepared to come alive on October 12, readers were told that it was the time to plan their visit and be part of a celebration that promised to leave an indelible mark on their hearts. This report is retained as an archive of how the opening was announced at the time.