RIYADH: Layali Diriyah has returned as a centerpiece of this year’s Diriyah Season, drawing visitors to an Al-Murayih transformed into an open-air celebration of Saudi culture, cuisine and craftsmanship.
The event runs daily from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. through to March 2026. Palm-lined pathways lit by twinkling lights set the tone for an atmosphere that blends traditional Najdi heritage with contemporary Saudi creativity.
For many guests, the setting itself is part of the attraction. Visitor Shatha Abdulaziz told Arab News: “My experience was wonderful and very enjoyable. What truly impressed me was the peaceful atmosphere, the traditional theme, the organization and details.
“While I’ve visited in previous seasons, I believe there’s been a significant improvement this year.”
Dining is a major draw, with a range of Saudi and international cuisines, including Italian and Mediterranean, served up by exclusive restaurants at this year’s event.
“It was an excellent experience,” said visitor Mohammed Fahad, who added that the careful attention to detail was impressive, along with “the historic authenticity in every corner of Diriyah Nights.”
He added: “It truly blends the present and the past with a refined and artistic touch.”
Shops and boutique stalls offer limited-edition items for those looking for a retail adventure.
Rawan Alsubaie, a regular visitor to Diriyah but attending Layali Diriyah for the first time, said the exclusivity of the products stood out.
She said: “I looked around at some of the shops and booths and found them unique, with products not available outside of Diriyah Nights.
“There are perfumes that I haven’t found in shops elsewhere. I even asked the shop owners if they had other branches, but they said they don’t have, which I find remarkable.
“I came expecting to find something amazing and, indeed, the place is wonderful, especially during the winter season. It’s perfect.”
This year’s Diriyah Season continues to showcase the depth of Najdi heritage while embracing the creativity shaping modern Saudi Arabia.
Through performances, exhibitions and immersive experiences, visitors are offered a window into the traditions that define Diriyah, along with the energy driving its cultural revival.
