Grab your totes and get ready to explore Saudi culture.

Riyadh Season’s beloved Souq Al Awaleen is set to return for the fifth edition of the festival. The zone is packed to the brim with traditional markets, open-air shopping pavilions, performances and gaming booths.

Slated to return in December, the souk is normally one of the last zones to open for Riyadh Season which offers free entry.

So grab your parkas because Riyadh winter is no joke. Here is everything to know about the returning zone.

Souq Al Awaleen 2024

One of the three free zones present at every Riyadh Season, Souq Al Awaleen is all about celebrating Saudi culture. Named after traditional Saudi markets, the open-air market boasts little booths with handmade trinkets, jewelry and traditional food. The sprawling space is a favourite of families because of the bird park where little ones can have exotic owls and eagles perch on their shoulders.

Souq Al Awaleen location

While popular zones like Boulevard City and Boulevard World are in Hittin, Souq Al Awaleen lights up the East Ring Showgrounds in the King Abdullah district.

Souq Al Awaleen opening date

The zone will open its huge Najdi-style doors on Sunday December 15.

Souq Al Awaleen tickets

The souk is free to enter but ticket reservation is a requirement. The reservations can be made via webook.com.

Riyadh Season free zones

Each year there are at least three free zones at Riyadh Season including Suwaidi Park where you can check out nine countries and bop to music from there. There is also the Riyadh Zoo where kids and adults alike can check out flamingoes, monkeys, bears, lions and more.

Free. Sun, Dec 15. East Ring Showgrounds, King Abdullah District, webook.com.