With the Esports World Cup (EWC) in full swing, Riyadh is welcoming gamers and fans from all over the world. While the EWC will certainly be the highlight of your visit, Riyadh offers an abundance of culinary delights that you won’t want to miss. To ensure your visit is unforgettable, we’ve curated a list of the top three must-visit spots closest to the EWC games, so you don’t have to go too far to get the best of both worlds as you immerse yourself in an unmatched dining experience.
VIA Riyadh comes alive at night with stunning light shows and a buzzing nightlife, transforming itself into a visual wonderland with its beautiful light displays. This modern landmark is a must-visit for anyone wishing to explore not just the high-end dining scene in Saudi, but also a luxe shopping experience.
Indulge in some of the most famous restaurants from around the globe and thrill your tastebuds. Opt for an exquisite dining experience at ChiSPACCA, a dining concept created by award-winning chef and restaurateur Nancy Silverton. Don’t feel like having Italian? That’s okay, choose to dine at any of the other hand-picked restaurants like Les Deux Magots for some French goodness or Gymkhana if you’re craving Indian food.
Not feeling like having a full meal? No problem,VIA Riyadh is also home to a variety of cafés. Take a seat at the iconic café ELLE and order an aesthetic dessert or go to Over Under and enjoy their coffee menu during the day and their chic mocktails at night. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual coffee or a night out, you’ll certainly find options to suit your preferences at VIA Riyadh.
You can also stroll through stores and brands exclusively available at VIA Riyadh and treat yourself with a stunning ring from Bellucci or sportswear and accessories from Isaia’s flagship store. You can also shop from international brands like Tom Ford and Elie Saab, if you’re feeling extra fancy.
2. Explore Al Mamlaka Social Dining
Kingdom Centre Tower is not only the most iconic building in Riyadh, but it also houses Al MamlakaSocial Dining, a first-of-its-kind dining destination where you can enjoy multiple dining experiences all at once through world-class food and a dining hall concept. With over 20 hand-picked local and international brands, you’ll find something for every palate.
Enjoy sizzling grilled platters from ASSEMBLY or order your favorite sushi dishes from Nozomi. If you’re craving a pizza, then indulge in La Rustica’sdelectable toppings or bite into their juicy lasagna. Get yourself a Watermelon Spritz or a Blueberry Bramble from Blended by Lyre’s to complement your custom meal, before you end your dining experience with a slice of delicious cake from Hanoverian, or a cookie or two from Floozie Cookies.
If you have some time to spare, make one final stop at Kingdom Centre Tower’s Sky Bridge to experience panoramic views of Riyadh. Take a lift to the 99th level to reach the Sky Bridge, and enjoy the view of the sprawling cityscape. From this height, the view is simply incredible, particularly around sunset.
If you don’t want to step out of the gaming zone even for a minute, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. While you’re busy enjoying the EWC games, make sure to stop by Kabana to enjoy Afghan fusion cuisine with a Mediterranean twist or Al Nakheel for authentic Middle Eastern flavours.
Looking for some fast-food options? Stop by Shake Shack and get your fill of crinkly fries and saucy burgers and for something lighter, grab a poke bowl from Poke Bar or indulge in their famous Berry and Banana Acai.
Among the many dining options Boulevard City has to offer, you can also grab and go from multiple kiosks and cafés spread across the zones, like ½ Million or Coic Lounge.
As you immerse yourself in the thrilling events of the Esports World Cup, make sure you carve out some time to explore Riyadh’s diverse culinary delights at these must-visit dining spots to get the most out of your visit.
Did you know that a single-entry visa is now available for a duration of stay of up to 90 days for Esports World Cup ticket holders? Click on the link here and fill out the form, attach the required documents, enter your event ticket number, and just pay the fees. If you still haven’t booked your EWC ticket, click here.
With increased flight options, there are now more pathways than ever for global and regional travellers to stop in Riyadh – in the Middle East this includes direct flights from Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad.
Visa for Saudi
Saudi has recently eased tourist visa requirements with immediate effect, such that Pakistani applicants can now submit a bank statement showing a minimum monthly credit amount of USD 750 or its equivalent.
The Tasheer offices found across Pakistan offer a convenient and user-friendly experience, including visa application guidance, biometric enrolment, status tracking, and passport delivery. Travellers can schedule an appointment on the Tasheer website prior to their visit.
In addition, Saudi has introduced the transit visa which is available for travellers arriving in Saudi via Saudia and Flynas, where they can transit and explore Saudi for up to 96 hours. Visa on arrival is available for those travellers who hold a valid and used UK, US or Schengen visa.
In the past year, Saudi introduced the one-year multiple entry visa for Pakistani travellers. This is a specific visa for those coming for personal visits such as attending weddings, other functions, orvisiting friends and family. Holders of this visa can enjoy multiple visits to Saudi within a 12-month period, allowing them to explore the country’s vibrant cities, cultural richness, and natural wonders all year round.
Pakistani travellers with the one-year multiple entry visa can also perform Umrah, underscoring Saudi’s commitment to fostering spiritual journeys and cultural exchanges.
For more information and to plan your trip, go to the Visit Saudi website.
About ‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’
‘Saudi, Welcome to Arabia’ is a vibrant consumer brand dedicated to sharing Saudi Arabia with the world and welcoming travellers to explore all the country has to offer. The brand’s role is to drive forward the country’s tourism industry through awareness-raising campaigns and to provide a comprehensive array of information and resources for travellers to plan and enjoy unforgettable journeys. As the world’s fastest-growing destination, Saudi, the heart of Arabia, is the most exciting new year-round destination.