Planning a Saudi getaway around music? Two signature events anchor the year: AZIMUTH 2025 in AlUla (Sep 25–26) and MDLBEAST SOUNDSTORM 2025 in Riyadh (Dec 11–13). Below you’ll find confirmed dates, ticket basics, lineup status, travel logistics, what to wear, and weekend itineraries, plus smart tips to deepen the trip.
At a Glance
AZIMUTH 2025 - AlUla
- When: Thu–Fri, Sep 25–26, 19:00–06:00 (last entry 02:00)
- Tickets: GA & VIP; ~5% off via the Experience AlUla app
- Age: 18+
- Access: Wheelchair accessible
- Venue: Thanaya sandstone canyons
SOUNDSTORM 2025 - Riyadh
- When: Thu–Sat, Dec 11–13
- Tickets/App: Access managed in the NOFOMO app
- Venue area: Banban (final maps drop closer to the event)
Why Pair These Two?
- Two flavors of Saudi Arabia: AZIMUTH’s desert-art intimacy vs SOUNDSTORM’s city-scale spectacle.
- Perfect timing: AZIMUTH lands around Saudi National Day week; SOUNDSTORM lights up cool December nights.
- Easy add-ons: Hegra and stargazing in AlUla; Diriyah dining, parks, museums, and big-city buzz in Riyadh.
AZIMUTH 2025 (AlUla)
Dates & Tickets (Confirmed)
- Thu–Fri, Sep 25–26, 2025
- Hours: 19:00–06:00 both nights; last entry 02:00
- Tiers: General Admission (all stages + art) and VIP (exclusive lounge, dedicated F&B, complimentary shisha)
- Door pricing: GA single day SAR 1,200 · VIP single day SAR 2,500 · Weekend GA SAR 2,000 · Weekend VIP SAR 4,000
- Mobile app perk: Book via Experience AlUla app for ~5% off door prices
- Ticket delivery: Receipt instantly; tickets emailed ~2 weeks before the event
- Age: 18+
- Accessibility: Venue is wheelchair accessible
- Venue: The rock-sculpted landscape of Thanaya
Azimuth Lineup (Official Highlights)
Expect a thoughtful blend of global names and regional talent. As listed on the event page:
- The Main Stage:
Ash, BKR, Christian Löffler, Colin, Dish Dash, Kevin De Vries, London Grammar, Mahmut Orhan, Mestiza, Mind Against, Nemahsis, RDJ, Shimza, Shkoon, Zeyne - The Hive Stage:
Akladios, Bedouin Burger, BRQ, Chiati, Hifi, Nesta, Nic Merheb, Priss, Tala Mortada, Vinyl Mode, Zeina
What the Vibe Feels Like
Intimate, immersive, and site-specific. Projection art dances across sandstone walls; sunrise sets creep over canyon edges. Expect a curation that blends electronic/indie with Middle Eastern textures, and a crowd that actually listens.
Getting to AlUla & Around
- Fly: Direct to ULH (AlUla International) or connect via Madinah or Tabuk, then transfer.
- On the ground: Signed routes and controlled access; allow buffer time for shuttles/parking on event nights.
- Move smart: If you’re self-driving, designate a driver; otherwise pre-book hotel transfers or ride-hailing.
Where to Stay in Alula
- Old Town base: For cafés, galleries, and walkability, stay near AlUla Old Town.
- Desert immersion: Opt for Banyan Tree AlUla, Habitas AlUla, or Shaden for cinematic canyon views.
- Book early: Inventory is limited around AZIMUTH weekend.
What to Wear (Desert‑Smart)
- Layers: Temperature drops after midnight; bring a lightweight jacket.
- Footwear: Closed-toe sneakers with grippy soles (sand + dancing).
- Essentials: Power bank, scarf, electrolyte sachets, sunscreen, sunglasses for dawn.
- Respect the site: Use refill stations and bins; keep to marked paths.
MDLBEAST SOUNDSTORM 2025 (Riyadh)
Dates, Access & Tickets (Confirmed)
- Thu–Sat, Dec 11–13, 2025
- NOFOMO is the official access app, you’ll manage and present your tickets here.
Venue & Transport
- Area: Banban, north of central Riyadh (final maps release closer to the event)
- Arrivals: Build 60–90 minutes for gate/security during peak times.
- Getting around: Watch for official shuttles and rideshare guidance; Banban traffic can peak at opening and headliner changeovers.
- Where to stay: KAFD and the Diplomatic Quarter work well for daytime exploring; hotels along main corridors make late-night returns easier.
What to Expect (Format & Stages)
SOUNDSTORM 2025 is leveling up. Across multi-stage zones (Big Beast, UG, MDLTown, and more) you’ll find hundreds of artists, immersive activations, and next-gen production. This year’s confirmed headliners include Post Malone, Calvin Harris, Benson Boone, Ava Max, Kaytranada, Major Lazer, Loyle Carner, Korolova, and others.
Access is tiered. The STORM ticket gives you full entry to every stage and beat, while STORM+ offers prime viewing areas, line bypasses, and extras.
Tickets & Tiers (Watch This Space)
Soundstorm 2025 tickets come in STORM, STORM+, and VIB tiers, with perks ranging from general access and wallet credit to fast-track entry, premium viewing platforms, valet parking, and VIB lounges. Check the official site for pricing and availability.
Last Year’s SOUNDSTORM Lineup Was Massive!
Eminem, Linkin Park, MUSE, A$AP Rocky, Calvin Harris, Camila Cabello, 200+ artists across 8 stages and 5 underground zones.
Also featured: Black Coffee, Adam Beyer, Boris Brejcha, Miss Monique, Richie Hawtin, Yotto, Kölsch. (See the full 2024 lineup on the official site)
What to Pack (Big‑Festival Edition)
- Phone power: High‑capacity battery + short cable you can use while walking.
- Ear protection: Especially at the main stages.
- Footwear: Broken‑in sneakers.
- Layers: December evenings can be cool; carry a light jacket/hoodie.
- ID: Original ID/passport; checks are strict.
AZIMUTH vs SOUNDSTORM: Which Fits You?
| Feature | AZIMUTH 2025 (AlUla) | SOUNDSTORM 2025 (Riyadh) |
|---|---|---|
| Scale & feel | Boutique, overnight desert festival with immersive art & wellness | Mega-festival, multi-stage spectacle with global headliners |
| Setting | Thanaya rock formations, AlUla | Purpose-built grounds in Banban, Riyadh |
| Hours | ~20:00–07:00, last entry ~05:00 | Dec 11–13, stages run late into the night (exact set times TBA) |
| Tickets | GA & Premium (VIP); ~5% app discount | STORM, STORM+, VIB (plus tables, Balconas, VIB Box) with tiered perks |
| Add-ons / Zones | Hegra, Old Town activations, stargazing, art installations | MDLTown, parks, Diriyah, VIP lounges, elevated viewing, café activations |
Visas, Booking Windows & Etiquette
Visas & Stopovers
- Many nationalities can obtain a tourist eVisa or use the 96‑hour stopover program, perfect for a festival weekend plus a short city add‑on. Check eligibility before you book.
When to Book
- Flights & hotels: Book early. AlUla inventory is tight around AZIMUTH; Riyadh sells fast for SOUNDSTORM week.
- Arrive a day ahead: Build in buffer time—especially if you’re flying long‑haul.
Local Etiquette & Safety
- Dress smart: Modest, breathable fabrics by day; layers by night.
- Be mindful when filming: Ask before filming people; be respectful at heritage sites.
- Environment: Pack a reusable bottle; use refill points and bins, especially in AlUla’s fragile desert.
- Accessibility: AZIMUTH lists wheelchair access; SOUNDSTORM typically provides accessible routes/staff, confirm specifics in each event’s FAQ close to date.
Booking & Official Sources for AZIMUTH & MDLBEAST SOUNDSTORM 2025
- AZIMUTH 2025 (AlUla): Experience AlUla
You will find: dates, hours, lineup, prices, entry rules, accessibility. - SOUNDSTORM 2025 (Riyadh): MDLBEAST official event page.
You will find: dates and NOFOMO app info. - SOUNDSTORM venue (Banban): Soundstorm Instagram
- MDLBEAST events calendar: Visit Events hub or Calendar view.
- NOFOMO app
Two Festivals, One Unforgettable Season
Time your trip around AZIMUTH 2025 and SOUNDSTORM 2025 to catch Saudi at its cultural peak: AlUla’s cinematic desert nights in September and Riyadh’s high‑octane celebration in December. Book early, pack smart, and build in easy mornings. The music goes late, and the memories last.