If you’ve ever spent a weekend evening on Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Road or zipped through the bright lights of Sheikh Zayed Road, you know that bike culture isn’t just a hobby in this part of the world—it’s a lifestyle. That distinct roar of a heavy engine is a familiar soundtrack to our nights. Now, that same energy is shifting gears and heading across the border.
Saudi Arabia has officially announced its first-ever major motorcycle celebration: The BIKES festival Riyadh. Scheduled to take over the capital from Monday, April 9, to Wednesday, April 11, 2026, this event is set to be the ultimate pit stop for anyone who lives for life on two wheels.
Riyadh is Revving Up
This isn’t just another small gathering in a parking lot. The festival is being held under the supervision of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF) and has the full backing of the Ministry of Sports. It’s a major piece of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 puzzle, aiming to put Saudi Arabia on the map as a global hub for sports and lifestyle tourism.
For those of us in the UAE, it feels like a natural extension of the regional passion we see at events like the Dubai Motorbike Festival. But Riyadh is aiming to do something uniquely massive, bringing together collectors, manufacturers, and weekend riders under one very large roof.
The Layout: Eight Zones to Explore
The festival is cleverly split into eight themed “halls,” making it easy to navigate whether you’re there to shop, learn, or just soak in the vibe.
- The Garage: This is the exhibition powerhouse. You’ll find the biggest global motorcycle brands here, showing off their latest models. It’s the place to be if you’re looking for the newest safety tech or top-tier gear.
- The Heart: This is the festival’s soul. Expect a main stage with live music, talks from legendary riders, and moments designed to celebrate the freedom of the road.
- The Arena: For the adrenaline seekers, this is the high-energy zone. Think live shows, stunts, and displays of riding skill that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- The Vault: This is where things get serious. An official auction zone will feature rare and exclusive motorcycles. If you’re a connoisseur looking for a one-of-a-kind addition to your garage, this is your spot.
- The Ride Lab: You don’t just have to look—you can ride. This dedicated zone allows visitors to test out new bikes in a safe, controlled environment.
- The Circle: Biking is all about community. This hall is a gathering space specifically for biker clubs and communities from across the region to connect and share stories.
- The Pit Stop: Even the toughest riders need to refuel. This is the rest zone, packed with food, music, and a laid-back atmosphere to recharge before hitting the next hall.
- The Biker Supply: Every rider needs a look. This marketplace offers everything from apparel and helmets to custom items that let you personalize your ride.
A Growing Regional Community
The timing couldn’t be better. We’ve seen a massive 12% jump in motorcycle registrations in the UAE recently, and the biking community in Saudi Arabia is growing just as fast. With the cooler April weather still lingering, it’s the perfect window for a cross-border trip.
Many Dubai riders are already eyeing the route to Riyadh for a spring road trip. The festival provides a perfect anchor point for a GCC tour, allowing riders to experience the vast landscapes of the Kingdom before arriving at a world-class event.
You Need to know
While ticket details haven’t been released just yet, the buzz on social media is already loud. You can keep an eye on official updates via the festival’s social handles or stay tuned to regional news outlets for the latest on ticket drops and hotel packages.
Whether you’re a lifelong cruiser or a newcomer hunting for your first set of wheels, The BIKES festival Riyadh is set to be the season’s biggest automotive highlight. It’s a front-row seat to the Kingdom’s transformation and a chance to witness a historic first for the Middle East’s riding scene.
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