Family Outings in Saudi Arabia

These cities offer fun, safe, and educational experiences ideal for family vacations, weekend trips, and school breaks.

πŸ“ 1. Riyadh

🎑 Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Riyadh Zoo – Over 1,300 animals, family train rides.
  • Al Hokair Land & Riyadh Boulevard World – Amusement rides, food courts, global mini-cities.
  • National Museum & King Abdulaziz Historical Center – Fun + learning.
  • King Abdullah Park – Musical fountains, play areas.

🍽️ Popular Family Foods:

  • Shawarma wraps & grilled chicken meals.
  • Kabsa and Mandi served in sharing trays.
  • Ice cream and popcorn vendors in parks.

🎎 Traditions:

  • Weekend picnics in large public parks.
  • Evening family strolls in malls and city streets.
  • Family-first culture; kids are welcomed everywhere.

🧭 Top Outing Spots:

  • Riyadh Front – Open-air shopping, kid zones.
  • Riyadh Season events – Parades, fireworks, global villages.
  • Riyadh Park Mall – Indoor entertainment and cinema for kids.

πŸ“ 2. Jeddah

🎑 Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Fakieh Aquarium – Dolphin & sea lion shows, Red Sea marine life.
  • Atallah Happy Land Park – Indoor/outdoor rides, VR games, bowling.
  • Red Sea Corniche – Biking, roller skating, beach picnics.
  • Al Shallal Theme Park – Roller coasters, lake rides, and ice skating.

🍽️ Popular Family Foods:

  • Broasted chicken, burgers, and grilled shrimp trays.
  • Local snacks: Mutabbaq, mana’eesh, and fresh juices.
  • Sweet shops with kunafa, ice cream, and cotton candy.

🎎 Traditions:

  • Sunset walks on the beach.
  • Weekend fish market trips.
  • Celebrating Eid with new clothes and outing gifts.

🧭 Top Outing Spots:

  • Jeddah Waterfront – Playgrounds, sculptures, wide open areas.
  • Indoor play centers in Red Sea Mall & Mall of Arabia.
  • Mini cruises or pedal boats from Obhur Bay.

πŸ“ 3. Dammam / Khobar

🎑 Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Dolphin Village – Animal shows, arcades, and rides.
  • Half Moon Bay – Shallow waters, sandy beaches.
  • Coral Island (Marjan Island) – Family boat trips, park zones.
  • Khobar Corniche – Fountains, shaded playgrounds, picnic spots.

🍽️ Popular Family Foods:

  • Eastern-style grilled fish, rice with shrimp.
  • Bahraini sweets, mini samboosa, and chicken nuggets.
  • Street stalls with foul & tamees, perfect for group meals.

🎎 Traditions:

  • Barbecues at the beach on weekends.
  • Celebrating National Day with family flags and decorations.
  • Playing traditional Gulf games like Karah (marbles) in parks.

🧭 Top Outing Spots:

  • Mall of Dhahran – Indoor activities for kids.
  • Adventure World in Khobar.
  • Al Khobar Sea Tower – Scenic views of the city and sea.

πŸ“ 4. Abha

🎑 Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Cable Cars to Al Soudah – A thrilling and scenic ride.
  • Al Habala Hanging Village – Historic cliffside houses.
  • Abha Dam Lake Park – Paddle boats and green zones.
  • Abha Theme Park – Classic rides and carnival games.

🍽️ Popular Family Foods:

  • Chicken Mandi with herbs.
  • Local bread with honey and ghee.
  • Fruit juices and grilled meat platters.

🎎 Traditions:

  • Families dress in colorful Asiri clothing during festivals.
  • Mountain storytelling evenings.
  • Weekend trips to rose farms and foggy hills.

🧭 Top Outing Spots:

  • Al Soudah Viewpoint – Perfect for family photos.
  • Tuesday Market – Traditional goods and kid-friendly snacks.
  • Art Street – Lights, murals, cafes.

πŸ“ 5. Taif

🎑 Family-Friendly Activities:

  • Cable Car to Al Hada – Views, rides, and fresh air.
  • Taif Zoo – Animals, pony rides, and mini trains.
  • Al Rudaf Park – Large fountains, open lawns.
  • Shubra Palace – Old castle and small museum for kids.

🍽️ Popular Family Foods:

  • Rose honey, milk bread, and fresh fruits.
  • Liver sandwiches (Kebda) from old-town stalls.
  • Fried chicken and rice dishes in picnic baskets.

🎎 Traditions:

  • Families spend Eid in the cool weather of Taif.
  • Visiting rose gardens during harvest season.
  • Buying homemade jams and pickles at roadside stalls.

🧭 Top Outing Spots:

  • Taif Souq – Colorful shopping and treats for kids.
  • Al Hada Strawberry Farm – U-pick experiences.
  • Family chalets with BBQ areas and mini pools.