Saudi’s Winter–Spring Season Events (Jan – Apr 2026)

 

While European Winter keeps us home and indoors, Saudi is just warming up. Through its Unreal Calendar, the country brings an action-packed selection of headline global sports, culture, and entertainment – all unfolding across vibrant cities, dramatic natural settings, and UNESCO heritage locations.

 

From football icons and motorsport heroes to international arts and luxury lifestyle events, every moment invites travelers into world-class experiences. Come for the headline-making event – and stay for more incredible travel journeys you won’t find anywhere else.

 

Dakar Rally: Where Legends Race Across Extraordinary Landscapes

January 3–17, Across Saudi

The world’s toughest rally returns to Saudi, sending elite drivers and riders across Yanbu, AlUla, Ha’il, Riyadh, Wadi Ad-Dawasir, Bisha in Aseer, and Al-Henakiyah. Expect global champions like Nasser Al-Attiyah (Qatar), Sebastien Loeb (France), or Carlos Sainz (Spain) – alongside Saudi’s own Yazeed Al-Rajhi – pushing performance to the limit in terrain that tests endurance and skill. Off-track, fans can explore ancient heritage, stargazing experiences, and coastal dining along the Saudi Red Sea.

Spanish Super Cup: Football Royalty Returns to Jeddah

January 8–12, Jeddah

The giants of European football – Real Madrid, Barcelona, Athletic Bilbao, and Real Mallorca – clash in Jeddah, turning the Spanish Super Cup into a marquee global sports event. Expect global stars such as Vinícius Jr., Pedri, Dani Carvajal, along with up-and-coming talent, bringing world-class football to Saudi. Fans will enjoy match-day magic and a city alive with culture, nightlife, and Jeddah’s views. It’s more than a match – it’s a full fan journey where memories extend far beyond the final whistle.

AlUla Arts Festival: Creativity Reimagined in a Living Masterpiece

January 15 – February 16, AlUla

Against one of the world’s most breathtaking backdrops, renowned artists like James Turrell (USA), Agnes Denes (Hungary / USA), and Tarek Atoui (Lebanon/France) converge for a festival of global cultural relevance. Installations, performances, and immersive exhibitions blend ancient heritage with cutting-edge creativity. Visitors can stay at luxury resorts nestled among monumental rock formations and enjoy starlit fine dining – a perfect invitation to stay for more artistic inspiration.

AlUla Desert Polo: Style Meets Sporting Prestige

January 16–17, AlUla

Polo returns to AlUla with some of the world’s top players and well-known international teams competing in an extraordinary setting. Expect participating clubs with players from the UK, Argentina, and Europe, delivering elite equestrian sport paired with glamour, premium hospitality, and lifestyle appeal. For those seeking elegance and sport combined, AlUla promises a luxurious winter escape.

Balad Beast: Music Takes Over a UNESCO Gem

January 30–31, Historic Jeddah

Balad Beast transforms the alleys of a heritage city into a global music hub. International headliners and regional stars perform across multiple stages, with immersive art and lighting transforming historic architecture into a creative playground. Previous editions have featured global heavyweights such as 21 Savage, Metro Boomin’, and Wiz Khalifa, underlining the festival’s scale and appeal. Day or night, stay for more in Jeddah, from vibrant cafés to waterfront nights along the coastline.

WWE Royal Rumble: A Global First in Riyadh

January 31, Riyadh

WWE’s most iconic event lands in Riyadh for the first time outside North America, featuring globally recognized superstars like Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, Becky Lynch, and surprise appearances by legends. Fans can expect larger-than-life moments and dramatic showdowns. After the final bell, Riyadh’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene keeps the energy alive.

LIV Golf Riyadh: When Golf Becomes a Night Out

February 4–7, Riyadh

Under floodlights, global golf stars such as Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, and Bryson DeChambeau compete, combining elite performances with music, social zones, and a nightlife atmosphere. It’s a weekend that redefines what golf can feel like, stylish, energetic, and social, perfect for fans and travelers alike.

Saudi Cup: The World’s Richest Race Week

February 13–14, Riyadh

Top international jockeys and thoroughbreds from the United States, Europe, the UAE and more gather for a race weekend like no other. With high stakes, lavish hospitality, and elegant spectator culture, including couture-style racewear and global social buzz, Saudi Cup delivers both sport and prestige. A perfect reason to stay and enjoy later nights in the city.

Formula E: The Future of Racing Sparks Jeddah to Life

February 13–14, Jeddah

Formula E brings electric motorsport to the coast, combining cutting-edge tech and youth-driven energy. International drivers like Sebastian Buemi (Switzerland), Jean-Éric Vergne (France), and rising E-Series stars deliver high-speed action and sustainable racing. With waterfront nightlife, fan zones, and fresh vibes, it’s a hit for young global audiences seeking adventure and innovation.

Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix: Night Racing Like No Other

April 17–18, Jeddah

On the world’s fastest street circuit, F1’s elite stars, Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and others, battle for victory under the night sky. Fans can expect VIP hospitality, electronic music performances, immersive fan zones, and electric city energy along with Jeddah. It’s not just a race; it’s a full-scale entertainment weekend – the perfect reason to stay for more coastal luxury and vibrant nights.

 

A Season That Doesn’t End with the Final Whistle

 

From globally recognized events to world-class competitive sport, immersive culture and nightlife, Saudi offers a season where the world comes together. Powered by the Unreal Calendar, the action doesn’t stop at the podium, finish line, or final encore – every moment opens the door to iconic destinations, new adventures, and unexpected travel discoveries. Whether experiencing a high-stakes Grand Prix, a pulsating music festival, or an art exhibition under the starlit sky, every visit becomes a reason to stay longer, explore deeper, and create memories that go beyond the final lap, match, or concert.

 

This winter–spring, don’t just attend, stay for more in Saudi, where the Unreal Calendar brings unforgettable experiences all year long.

Learn more about Saudi Tourism Authority (STA)

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