Riyadh’s literary havens: Where coffee meets the love of books

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Sophia’s towering wooden shelves filled with books, creating a sophisticated retreat for readers in Riyadh. (Instagram: @sophia.alriyadh)
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Updated 08 January 2025
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Riyadh’s literary havens: Where coffee meets the love of books

  • City’s book cafes offer serene spaces for quiet reflection
  • Carefully curated selections of Arabic and English titles on offer

RIYADH: Riyadh’s cultural landscape is undergoing a quiet transformation, where the love of coffee meets the timeless allure of literature.

Book cafes are carving out a niche as spaces where readers, thinkers, and coffee enthusiasts converge.

These havens of creativity and reflection offer retreats for the mind and soul, providing a sense of community in an increasingly fast-paced world.




A cozy nook where greenery and natural decor invite visitors to unwind with a good book.  (Instagram: @coffee_trees20)

The Book Club: Where stories find their home

Nestled in the Al-Yasmin district, The Book Club is a tranquil retreat for bibliophiles, particularly those passionate about Arabic literature.

Its shelves brim with carefully curated Arabic titles, from classics to contemporary gems, complemented by a modest selection of English books.

HIGHLIGHTS

• In Riyadh’s Al-Narjis district, Wathbah Coffee and Book’s floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, vintage-inspired decor, and intimate corners create a haven for readers and thinkers alike.

• Coffee Trees, tucked away in the Al-Rayan district, offers a sanctuary that blends greenery with literary charm.

The minimalist interior, adorned with soft lighting and intimate reading nooks, creates an atmosphere conducive to focus and relaxation.

What sets The Book Club apart is its browsing policy. Visitors are welcome to skim books for three minutes before deciding to purchase, with additional purchases granting extended reading time.




A serene entrance invites book lovers and coffee enthusiasts to step into a world of stories and community at The Book Club. This Riyadh gem blends literature with culture. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

During Arab News’ visit, the cafe hosted a stimulating talk with Saad Al-Bazai, titled, “Historical Fiction: Why Do They Believe in the Imagined?”

Al-Bazai told Arab News: “These gatherings bring together a diverse audience and provide them with the opportunity to meet researchers.

“This undoubtedly supports cultural life as it creates a platform for dialogue that differs from social media platforms — it is vibrant, direct, and involves personal presence.”

Sophia: A library, a cafe, and a place to connect

Sophia has become a cornerstone of Riyadh’s literary scene, acting as a hub for knowledge, creativity, and meaningful connections.

Its towering wooden shelves are filled with a rich collection of Arabic and English books, carefully curated to cater to a diverse audience.




Sophia blends intellect and leisure, offering visitors a serene space to read and reflect. (Instagram: @sophia.alriyadh)

Beyond being a library, Sophia also serves as a publishing house, amplifying the voices of local and regional authors, bringing their stories to the forefront.

What sets Sophia apart is its dedication to fostering intellectual growth and cultural exchange.

The space regularly hosts book launches, discussion panels, and thought-provoking dialogue sessions that bring together writers, readers, and thinkers from various backgrounds.

The inviting ambiance, complete with warm lighting and cozy seating, creates the perfect backdrop for these events, making each visit an enriching experience.

Aminah Al-Hassani, a loyal visitor, captured the essence of Sophia. She said: “The place is calm and serene, and it has never let me down with a bad book.

“Every book I’ve read here has been better than the last. Their selections are beautiful, and the events they organize are always beneficial and enjoyable.”




The calming ambiance of Coffee Trees, a perfect escape to enjoy ethically sourced coffee and literary treasures. (Instagram: @coffee_trees20)

Coffee Trees: A green sanctuary

Coffee Trees, tucked away in the Al-Rayan district, offers a sanctuary that blends greenery with literary charm. The cafe’s lush decor, accentuated by vibrant plants and natural elements, transforms the space into a botanical retreat.

Though its library is modest, the curated selection of books is perfectly aligned with the cafe’s serene ambiance.

Patrons often find themselves lost in thought or pages, surrounded by the aroma of ethically sourced, expertly brewed coffee.

Whether it’s the tranquil environment or the commitment to sustainability, Coffee Trees is a favorite escape for those seeking a moment of calm in the city.




The timeless charm of Wathbah, with its floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and vintage-inspired decor. (Instagram: @wathbah_cb)

Wathbah Coffee & Book: Where timeless charm meets literature

In Al-Narjis district, Wathbah Coffee & Book exudes intellectual allure. Its floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, vintage-inspired decor, and intimate corners create a haven for readers and thinkers alike.

The carefully selected collection spans genres and eras, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Wathbah’s ambiance is perfect for quiet reading, reflective conversations, or simply soaking in its aesthetic beauty.

As Sara Al-Ebraheem, a loyal patron, said: “There’s a certain magic in time spent in the company of good books, with a perfectly brewed coffee.”




The warm, minimalist interior of Ons, perfect for a quiet read or reflective moments away from the city’s buzz. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Ons Coffee Roasters: Where simplicity meets serenity

Ons Coffee Roasters offers a minimalist haven for those who crave peace and simplicity. Its clean design, complemented by tasteful art and cozy seating, creates a calm environment perfect for unwinding.

While its library may be small, the books displayed are thoughtfully chosen to inspire reflection and curiosity.

Ons Coffee Roasters is as much about quality as it is about serenity. Its expertly brewed coffee elevates the experience, making it an ideal retreat for anyone seeking a quiet corner in Riyadh.




Ons’s small literary touch: A charming collection of books graces the walls of Ons, where simplicity meets creativity in every corner. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

A cultural renaissance in Riyadh

The emerging popularity of book cafes is providing spaces where literature, art, and community thrive. The cafes cater to a growing audience of residents and visitors who value meaningful connections in an increasingly digital world.
 

 


Smart tech aids lifesaving care for Hajj pilgrim

King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah. (SPA)
Updated 07 June 2025
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Smart tech aids lifesaving care for Hajj pilgrim

  • After stabilization, she was equipped with a smartwatch linked to the Seha Virtual Hospital system for remote monitoring, enabling her to complete her pilgrimage safely

MAKKAH: A Moroccan pilgrim who had suffered a “severe” heart attack was admitted to King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah, where she received “urgent care supported by smartwatch technology and continuous virtual monitoring,” the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The hospital, part of the Makkah Health Cluster, reported that the patient also suffered from chronic conditions including hypertension and diabetes.

She “underwent cardiac catheterization, during which a drug-eluting stent was placed in the left anterior descending artery,” the SPA reported.

After stabilization, she was equipped with a smartwatch linked to the Seha Virtual Hospital system for remote monitoring, enabling her to complete her pilgrimage safely.

Later, in Mina, the smartwatch detected abnormal readings as the patient experienced chest pain again, triggering an alert. The virtual care team directed her to Mina Al-Jisr Hospital, where she was evaluated and admitted for observation. Once stable, she was discharged with a treatment plan and continued virtual follow-up.

This case “illustrates the strength of Saudi Arabia’s digital health infrastructure during Hajj and reflects the Ministry of Health’s progress toward Vision 2030, prioritizing high-quality, smart healthcare for pilgrims,” the SPA wrote.

 


Nusuk app guides more than 35k pilgrims on Eid Al-Adha

Updated 07 June 2025
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Nusuk app guides more than 35k pilgrims on Eid Al-Adha

  • Available in 10 languages, the app offers more than 120 digital services to support pilgrims’ arrival and rituals

MAKKAH: The Nusuk app — developed by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, played a “key role” on the first day of Eid Al-Adha, helping to guide more than 35,000 Hajj pilgrims, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

The app “highlights the ministry’s commitment to using technology for smooth pilgrim movement and effective crowd management at the holy sites, reflecting integrated technical and operational services during Hajj,” the SPA wrote.

Available in 10 languages, the app offers more than 120 digital services to support pilgrims’ arrival and rituals. With direct links to 25 government agencies and 10 private sector entities, Nusuk — a part of the ministry’s digital-transformation drive in line with Vision 2030 — “has become a comprehensive platform for the pilgrim journey,” the SPA reported.

For this year’s Hajj, the ministry added more than 30 new services to the app, including Nusuk AI — a digital assistant that provides guidance and responds to pilgrims’ inquiries via voice and text in multiple languages.

 


Saudi crown prince urges international community to end Israeli aggression in Gaza

Updated 07 June 2025
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Saudi crown prince urges international community to end Israeli aggression in Gaza

  • Prince Mohammed made the comments during a speech to dignitaries and officials marking Eid Al-Adha in Mina

MINA: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Saturday reaffirmed “the importance of the international community’s role in ending the disastrous consequences” of Israel’s “aggression” in Gaza.

He made the comments during a speech to dignitaries and officials marking Eid Al-Adha in Mina, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

“The suffering of our brothers in Palestine continues as a result of the ongoing Israeli aggression, he said.

“We reaffirm the importance of the international community’s role in ending the disastrous consequences of this aggression, protecting innocent civilians, and working toward a new reality in which Palestine can enjoy peace in accordance with international legitimacy and relevant resolutions.”

The crown prince was speaking during a meeting with Eid Al-Adha well-wishers at the Royal Court in Mina Palace.

“God Almighty has honored this country with the service of the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors, including pilgrims, Umrah performers and other guests,” he said, emphasizing that Saudi Arabia places this sacred duty at the forefront of its priorities, harnessing all its capabilities to serve the guests of God and ensuring that they are able to perform their rituals with ease and comfort.

The crown prince reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to fulfilling this responsibility, recognizing both the great honor and the immense trust it entails.

“We ask God Almighty to perpetuate security and stability in our country, in all Muslim countries and across the world,” he said.

“May He accept the Hajj of the pilgrims to the House of God and return them safely to their families.”


MWL chief meets Syria’s Awqaf minister

Updated 07 June 2025
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MWL chief meets Syria’s Awqaf minister

  • They discussed a variety of topics of common interest

RIYADH: Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, secretary-general of the Muslim World League and chairman of the Organization of Muslim Scholars, met with the Syrian Arab Republic’s Minister of Awqaf Mohammad Abu Al-hair Shukri to discuss “a variety of topics of common interest,” the MWL wrote in a post on X on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance Dr. Abdullatif Al-Alsheikh recently met with the Malaysian delegation of Islamic leaders participating in the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Guests Program for Hajj, Umrah, and Visit, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

 

 


Saudi Crown Prince meets Maldivian, Mauritanian presidents to discuss partnership opportunities

Updated 07 June 2025
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Saudi Crown Prince meets Maldivian, Mauritanian presidents to discuss partnership opportunities

  • Two leaders exchanged Eid Al-Adha greetings and discussed ways to strengthen relations

MINA: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met on Saturday with President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives at the Royal Court in Mina Palace, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The two leaders exchanged Eid Al-Adha greetings and discussed ways to strengthen relations and expand cooperation between their countries across various fields, SPA added.

The meeting reflected ongoing efforts to bolster Saudi-Maldivian ties and explore new avenues for partnership.

A number of senior Saudi officials attended the meeting, including Prince Saud bin Mishal bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Makkah Region; Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Minister of Sports; Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef, Minister of Interior; Prince Khalid bin Salman, Minister of Defense; and Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

From the Maldivian side, the delegation included several ministers including Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel.

The high-level talks come as Saudi Arabia continues to deepen engagement with nations across South Asia, in line with its broader diplomatic and economic outreach initiatives.

Also on Saturday, Prince Mohammed held talks with President of Mauritania Mohamed Ould Ghazouani.

Prince Mohammed held talks with President of Mauritania Mohamed Ould Ghazouani. (SPA)

They also exchanged congratulations on the occasion of Eid Al-Adha, in addition to discussing overall relations and ways to enhance them in various fields, SPA reported.