Short routes to take around the West End.

Whether you’re crossing over from the other regions for the ultimate summer run around, or simply want a breathtaking change of scenery, here are mini escapes to get you some sun, sand, and fun.

Ride or Fly?

• Drive from Riyadh and Sharqiya or get on a SAPTCO bus to reach Jeddah. Rent-a-Car outposts are available at airports and bus stations.
• Saudia, FlyNas, and Flyadeal offer budget seat sales. Taking red-eye flights can score your tickets for just SR 250 or less.

LOOKING FOR A LONG DRIVE?

HIGHWAY 40 will take coast to coast from Sharqiya to Jeddah and vice versa, crossing through Riyadh. There’s also the Riyadh-Jeddah route that lets you pass by old towns, like Muzahimmiyah, the Tuwaiq escarpment, and the Saja and Umm Al Ramth Wildlife Sanctuaries, cutting through Taif before reaching Jeddah.

1. JEDDAH – KAEC – YANBU

Start your trip from Jeddah.known as the Bride of the Red Sea. and thelargest seaport.After a one-hour and forty-minute drive from Jeddah.you will find “King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC)located at the crossroads between East and West.on the coast of the Red Sea.From there. head north to Saudi’s diving capital, Yanbu, to explore the dive sites and scenic” sandy shores.

High-End Experiences:
Yes.four-star hotels are available, and Jeddah is able to provide designer shops and fine dining options.

Duration: 3 – 7 days    Climate: Hot

Activities to look out for:
Watersports. snorkeling.diving.fishing, city walks, golf, dining, art, and museums.and shopping.

2. JEDDAH – KAEC

Taking this route, you can relish everything from a back-to-basics city trip around historic Jeddah to a luxurious getaway.

Luxury: Yes     Duration: 3 – 5 days    Climate: Hot

Activities to look out for:
Watersports. snorkeling.diving,fishing.city walks. golf, dining, art, and museums, and shopping.

Alternative Routes
KAEC is one of the stops on the Haramain Railway network, which connects KAEC to Jeddah and King Atxlulaziz airport in less than thirty minutes, and Makkah and Madinah in less than sixty minutes.

3. JEDDAH

Asits motto says, Jeddah ghair (Jeddah is different) so are the offerings by this urban summer capital. Whether you’re looking for a Saudishort break. packed with activities-perfect for keeping the family entertained, or just a bit of peace and quiet-Jeddah features pristine beaches, shops, five-star hotels, art galleries, entertainment facilities, and lots more.

Experiences:
From urban exploration, cultural deep dives, and luxurious getaways, to chilling out by the corniche, this west coast Summerland has something for everyone.

Duration: 3 – 4 days       Climate: Hot

Activities to look out for:
Snorkeling, diving, fishing, city walks, dining, art and museums, and shopping.

MUST DO
Make time to visit Jeddah’s open-air museum, with 20 iconic sculptures on the Jeddah Waterfront.

FUN FACT
Jeddah is also home to one of the oldest and most iconic locations. AL Salad, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 2014.

4. ABHA – ALBAHA – TAIF

If lush landscapes, undulating mountains, and foggy highlands are your thing, hit the road and take this route for an unforgettable mini escape. These places will keep you cool and airy despite the summer heat.

Duration: 3 – 7 days      Climate: Cool

Activities to look out for:
Nature walks, dining, art and museums, camping, cable-cars, souq walks, hiking, and trekking.

5. ABHA – ALBAHA

If you have little time on your hands, just taking the route to Abha and AIBaha will give you a great retreat. Around a four-hour drive from each other, these two destinations are a perfect way to experience the Saudi highlands.

Duration: 3 – 5 days      Climate: Cool

Activities to look out for:
Nature walks, dining, art and museum, camping, souq walks, and hiking & trekking.

6. ABHA

Located in the southwest of Saudi Arabia. Abha is the capital of the Asir Province and is said to have the highest mountains in the Kingdom. Abha’s mountains, standing majestically like the Alps, crown the city as the queen of the provinces. Its lush forests feature stunning views to boot.

Duration: 3 – 4 days      Climate: Cool

Activities to look out for:
Nature walks, dining, art and museums, camping, hiking, and trekking.

NEED TO KNOW

Abha’s Arabian Baboons are picture-ready but best take photos from your car. When taking a hike, keep things fastened; the naughty ones will run off with your snacks. Don’t feed ’em! You must resist.