Making History: Saudi’s Blockbuster Lineup of Global Championships, Art and Music

Saudi is poised to make history with an unprecedented line-up of global championships, historic firsts, and cultural milestones during the winter and spring 2025/26 season and beyond. Across its cities, world-renowned athletes, artists and performers will converge in a setting that harmonises ancient culture with modern spectacle.

From the thundering roar of Formula 1 cars on the Red Sea coast to electrifying concerts beneath desert skies, this is a season that defines the new era of entertainment and sport in the Kingdom. Whether you are drawn to championship arenas or cultural celebrations rooted in centuries of heritage, Saudi’s events calendar offers a rare combination of excitement, artistry and discovery.

Iconic Sporting Firsts: Making Global News

The Kingdom is staking its claim as a new home for major international sport and entertainment, hosting world-class tournaments that set new milestones for the region. With state-of-the-art venues, passionate crowds and stunning backdrops, Saudi is now firmly on the global map of elite sport.

WWE Royal Rumble Riyadh 2026 (31 Jan 2026, Riyadh)

January 2026 will mark a defining moment in sports entertainment as Riyadh hosts the 39th annual WWE Royal Rumble, one of the biggest wrestling events in the world. For the first time in its history, this iconic showdown will take place outside North America—an achievement that underscores Saudi’s growing prominence as a destination for major global events.

The Royal Rumble is celebrated for its high drama and exhilarating athleticism, where WWE’s biggest stars enter the ring in a match that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. Visitors can expect an atmosphere charged with anticipation, world-class production, and a sense of history in the making. For fans of sport and spectacle alike, this will be one of the most talked-about events of the year.

Formula E (13–14 Feb 2026, Jeddah)

The future of motorsport arrives in Jeddah with Formula E, the all-electric, single-seater championship that combines speed, technology and sustainability. Taking place on the city’s scenic streets, this event demonstrates how innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.

Fans can expect the distinctive hum of electric engines as drivers compete in close, high-intensity races surrounded by the Red Sea coast. Formula E is more than a race; it’s a glimpse into how motorsport is evolving, merging the thrill of competition with the drive towards a cleaner future. The event also highlights Jeddah’s role as a hub for forward-thinking, eco-conscious experiences in the sporting world.

Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabia Grand Prix (17–19 Apr 2026, Jeddah)

As spring approaches, the energy builds towards one of the most anticipated weekends on the global sporting calendar: the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabia Grand Prix. Set on the spectacular Jeddah Corniche Circuit, this night race offers breathtaking action along one of Formula 1’s fastest and most visually stunning tracks.

Drivers reach extraordinary speeds as they navigate tight corners beside the Red Sea, while spectators enjoy the festival-like atmosphere with concerts, fan zones and entertainment spread along the waterfront. With its mix of glamour, speed and innovation, the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix perfectly reflects the Kingdom’s ambition to host the world’s most prestigious events, while offering unforgettable experiences for every visitor.

Elite Competition: Tennis and Lifestyle Sports

Beyond the roar of engines and stadium crowds, Saudi also celebrates sports that combine elegance, precision and style. Jeddah and AlUla, each with its own distinct character, provide stunning backdrops for high-calibre athletic performance.

ATP Next Gen Finals (17–21 Dec 2025, Jeddah)

Jeddah will once again serve as the stage for the ATP Next Gen Finals, the season-ending championship for the world’s top eight under-21 male tennis players. This tournament showcases the rising stars of men’s tennis, offering a glimpse of the sport’s future talent.

With its fast-paced, innovative format — featuring shorter sets and cutting-edge technology — the event is designed to attract new audiences while maintaining the sport’s intensity. The competition takes place at King Abdullah Sports City, a modern venue that blends international-standard facilities with Saudi hospitality. Visitors can enjoy thrilling matches by day and explore Jeddah’s lively Corniche and world-class dining by night, making it a perfect sporting getaway.

AlUla Desert Polo (16–17 Jan 2026, AlUla)

From the tennis courts of Jeddah to the canyons of AlUla, Saudi continues to redefine the connection between sport and culture. The AlUla Desert Polo tournament is one of the most unique events in the world; a fusion of elite competition, luxury and natural beauty.

Set among AlUla’s golden dunes and dramatic rock formations, the tournament draws international polo players, celebrities and spectators who appreciate both athletic excellence and refined experiences. Beyond the matches, guests can explore AlUla’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, enjoy desert dining under the stars and witness how this historic region has transformed into a hub for global sport and culture.

The event encapsulates AlUla’s spirit: timeless, elegant and connected to the landscape that has inspired generations.

Cultural & Music Celebrations

While sport takes centre stage, Saudi’s cultural and musical calendar adds depth and vibrancy to the season. From pulsating festivals in Riyadh to artistic showcases in AlUla, visitors can immerse themselves in the Kingdom’s creative evolution.

Red Sea (All Year Round)

Throughout the year, the shimmering waters of the Red Sea offer a sanctuary for adventure and relaxation along Saudi Arabia’s western coastline. With crystal-clear visibility and vibrant coral reefs that remain accessible in every season, this coastal paradise invites travelers to explore one of the world’s most diverse marine ecosystems.

The variety of experiences is captivating: world-class scuba diving, serene sailing excursions, and luxury resorts that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape. Whether you are navigating the intricate shipwrecks of the deep, paddleboarding over turquoise shallows, or simply watching a crimson sunset over the horizon, the Red Sea provides a constant rhythm of discovery. It stands as a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s natural heritage, where the ancient beauty of the sea meets a modern vision of sustainable tourism and ecological wonder.

Winter At Tantora (18 Dec 2025 – 10 Jan 2026, AlUla)

For those seeking a more reflective experience, Winter At Tantora offers an intimate connection with Saudi heritage. Named after the ancient sundial that once marked the change of seasons, this festival celebrates AlUla’s cultural roots through music, art and cuisine.

Visitors can enjoy performances in extraordinary open-air venues, sample regional dishes prepared by renowned chefs and explore AlUla’s Old Town, where history is carved into every stone. The event’s combination of tradition and modern presentation has made it one of the country’s most beloved annual festivals – a journey into the heart of Arabian culture.

AlUla Arts Festival (16 Jan – 14 Feb 2026, AlUla)

Creativity takes centre stage during the AlUla Arts Festival, a vibrant celebration of artistic expression in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring settings. The festival features contemporary installations, live performances and exhibitions that highlight both local and international talent.

Art enthusiasts can wander through immersive displays set against the sandstone cliffs, attend artist talks and experience how culture can flourish in harmony with nature. Each year, the festival reinforces AlUla’s role as a global meeting point for creativity, where tradition, innovation and landscape come together in perfect balance.

Riyadh Season Events (Oct 2025 – Mar 2026, Riyadh)

For a city-wide experience of excitement and variety, Riyadh Season offers months of non-stop entertainment stretching across the capital. From October 2025 through to March 2026, visitors can explore themed districts, outdoor performances, interactive installations and world-class dining.

The scale of Riyadh Season is remarkable—millions of visitors, hundreds of events and countless opportunities for exploration. It’s a celebration of everything the city has to offer, from music and theatre to fashion and gaming. Whether you’re seeking family fun or high-end entertainment, Riyadh Season ensures that every day brings something new.

Saudi is gearing up for an extraordinary period, offering a continuous stream of world-class entertainment and athletic excellence. Each event contributes to a broader narrative of transformation, where tradition meets modernity, and the Kingdom welcomes the world with confidence and creativity.

From the iconic WWE Royal Rumble in Riyadh to the breathtaking Formula 1 Grand Prix in Jeddah, and the artistic brilliance of Winter At Tantora and the AlUla Arts Festival, visitors are invited to witness history in motion. This is more than a calendar of events: it is a showcase of how Saudi is redefining culture, sport and hospitality on the global stage.

For travellers seeking experiences that inspire, energise, and connect, the coming season offers an open invitation to be part of something truly special.