Riyadh Season 2025 attracts 1M visitors in 13 days, cementing its global entertainment status

SAUDI ARABIA – The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) Chairman, Turki Alalshikh, announced that Riyadh Season 2025 has attracted one million visitors within just 13 days of its launch on October 10.

“The milestone reaffirms the sixth edition’s status as the grandest entertainment destination in the region and the world,” he said.

The season kicked off with a spectacular global parade in collaboration with U.S. retail giant Macy’s, blending visual spectacle and artistic performance in a first-of-its-kind celebration.

Subsequent highlights included the Joy Forum 2025, a convergence of the world’s leading entertainment innovators and creators, fostering dialogue and creative exchange.

Riyadh Season also played host to the Six Kings Slam tennis tournament, featuring top international stars in a thrilling sporting atmosphere.

The event is an integral aspect of Saudi Arabia’s broad cultural and economic transformation under Vision 2030, driving investment in entertainment infrastructure and promoting homegrown talent.

Additional attractions include international zones like Boulevard World, showcasing immersive cultural experiences inspired by countries such as Kuwait, South Korea, and Indonesia.

One eagerly awaited new feature is Beast Land, developed with the globally renowned influencer MrBeast. It will open on November 13 and offer over 40 retail and dining outlets, adventure gardens, and daily competitions.

Riyadh Season 2025’s expanding global scope and commitment to fostering cultural exchange make it a must-visit event for entertainment lovers worldwide, significantly enhancing Saudi Arabia’s tourism appeal.

Riyadh Season was introduced in 2019 as part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Saudi Seasons initiative supporting Vision 2030.

The inaugural edition attracted over 11 million visitors during its 66-day run, generating about 6 billion riyals (US$1.6 billion) in revenue.

Flight bookings to Riyadh rose by 106%, with hotel bookings in the one-to-three-star segments growing by 240%. After a COVID-19 hiatus, the 2022–23 edition drew more than five million visitors in two months.

The 2024 Riyadh Season featured new venues like Boulevard Hall and high-profile events including the Battle of Baddest boxing match. Last year’s Riyadh Season solidified the event’s status as one of the world’s largest entertainment festivals, attracting record crowds and tourists from around the globe.

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.