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JEDDAH: Cold weather and a wide range of attractions are some of the reasons why many visitors consider Saudi Arabia a winter destination. In addition, folk festivals and events take place during the winter months, adding an extra dimension to the seasonal holidays.

There’s a festive atmosphere everywhere you go and the country is full of events, cultural displays and, of course, historical sites.

The cooler weather makes it more comfortable to enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Enjoy Riyadh’s 2022 season festivities

Riyadh is an amazing place any time of year, but it’s even more magical in the winter. Riyadh Season 2022 is first and foremost a city-wide celebration, bringing events from around the world to the heart of Saudi Arabia’s capital, with each of its 15 zones offering an array of activities.

Attractions such as Riyadh Winter Wonderland, the largest theme park in the city, Boulevard Riyadh City and Boulevard World, The Groves Restaurants, located among palm trees in Riyadh’s diplomatic quarter, the Saturday market and more are all reasons to visit Riyadh.

Riyadh has many attractions for visitors, be they foodies, music lovers or theater lovers.

Foodies will adore the international cuisine, accompanied by live music and entertainment from the Groves restaurants, presented in a charming winter atmosphere. As a hobby, American Ice Show has moved to Saudi Arabia just in time for the winter season and features Atlantis from Holiday on Ice which takes place in Cool Arena in Boulevard Riyadh City.

Enjoy the winter atmosphere at AlUla’s Tantora

AlUla is an ideal place for a winter break and is well known for its highly anticipated Winter at Tantora, the Kingdom’s premier music and culture festival, which returns this year for its fourth edition from 22 December to 21 January. It offers a wide range of activities in the world of music, art, fashion, gastronomy and well-being.

The annual festival offers a variety of activities for sports enthusiasts, adventure seekers and history buffs. Visitors can cheer on the runners in the second largest endurance race in the world or savor the culinary experiences of top chefs. Also discover luxury brand shops and traditional souks, as well as art exhibitions and temporary restaurants.

Highlights this weekend include the Tantora Celebration, where visitors can enjoy music and dance performances, watch screenings, sample Saudi coffee, enjoy a hot air balloon experience, stargaze, snorkel and echo climb -gardening.

Take a winter walk to Tabouk and Asir

In winter, the mountains of the northern and southern provinces of the country are popular destinations for adventure seekers.

One of the perks of winter is getting outside to enjoy the crisp season air. In Saudi Arabia, winter is the time for staying cool, camping and, of course, hiking. Average temperatures are around 10°C, but visitors can see snowfall on the mountains of the northern regions, covering the slopes and sands of the desert.

For snow lovers, hiking in Saudi Arabia in winter is a different experience than anywhere else. Head north near Tabuk to see quicksand beneath a layer of fresh snow.

Asir, on the other hand, is home to the juniper-covered mountains of Sudah, the highest place in Saudi Arabia, more than 3,000 meters above sea level.

Covered with verdant juniper trees and with lovely views, this rural rock massif offers many hiking trails.

Soudah is also home to the annual Flowerman Festival, which showcases the culture of the indigenous Aseri tribe, including men wearing flower crowns and headdresses.

Desert activities in winter

The desert can be intimidating; it can be dry and gloomy and cold in the winter, but it can also be a fun place.

As winter is the most temperate season in Saudi Arabia, it is the perfect time to go outside. Many locals choose winter to indulge in desert activities, heading to Al-Nafud or Rub Al-Khali for horse riding, sand boarding and hiking.