Riyadh is having a moment. Between skylines in KAFD, brick heritage in Diriyah, gallery hubs in JAX District, and a food scene that swings from cardamom coffee to chef-driven tasting menus, the Saudi capital feels like a city sprinting toward the future without losing its roots. And this week, it’s turning the volume all the way up: Riyadh Fashion Week 2025 kicks off today and runs through October 21, pulling the world’s style crowd into a whirl of runway shows, pop-ups, and late-night culture. It’s the city’s most talked-about edition yet—the first time fashion takes over Riyadh at this scale—with international houses, regional talents, and a calendar designed for discovery. Touch down, drop your bags, and let the city guide you!
This week, KHAMSA takes you to Riyadh with Shouq (@ju8b.b on Instagram) a Syrian creative based in Riyadh, forever out & about and chasing the next moment of good light. Her days move between cafés, city strolls, and front-row dreams; always styled, always intentional. Fashion isn’t a hobby here; it’s a language she speaks fluently, from street looks to statement nights. And who better than Shouq to show us around for Riyadh fashion week?
Top Must Visit Food Spots?
I mean .. you can’t say you love Japanese food if you haven’t tried kuuru ?
BEST Lebanese restaurant! Everyday there’s a new dish of the day !
Amazing Shawarma
Best shawarma in the whole world.
If you wanna be healthy .. this is perfect!
Best steakhouse in Riyadh!!!
Best Places For Shopping?
Solitaire Mall KSA
Best mall ever!
Love Mwaz because they always save my life ! Beautiful brands.
Must-Visit Cultural Spots?
Bujairi Terrace
This place is wow and there’s so many restaurants.
Souq Al Zal
One of the oldest markets in Riyadh … Stunning!
Riyadh Season
Riyadh season of course! Just started as well!
King Abdullah Financial District
Best Hotels to Stay In?
Mansard Riyadh, A Radisson Collection Hotel
Favorite!!!
Bab Samhan, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Diriyah
Perfect and it’s located in diriyah which is where everything started! Beautiful.
Underrated Places?
Farouj abo alabd
This restaurant is located in Sulaymaniyah which is an area that I adore! So much to do and so many Syrian restaurants! Love love love!
Centria Mall
This area is amazing for walking around and grabbing a coffee.
Must Pack Items?
- Cute abayas
- Button up shirts
- Baggy pants
- Comfortable heels
- Sunscreen! The sun in Riyadh is HOT! But the fashion scene is hotter
Any Tips & Tricks to Tackle the City?
- Use the metro ! It’s much easier and so beautiful.
- I would say always book at the restaurants! The fancy ones.
- Don’t be afraid to dress up! Elegant abayas and cute heels!
