Get The Fun Outdoors.
5 Saudi Road Trips
Hit The Road This Winter
With limited options for international travel, this is one of the best times to explore the country. And, what better way to explore the great outdoors than by going on a good old road trip?
1. Yanbu To Haql
This route follows the country’s western coast where you’ll be passing by long stretches of pristine beaches and quaint coastal towns; so keep those swimming shorts and fishing gear handy. In case you don’t want to commit to the full stretch on one day then you can stay at one of the many hotels that are situated at regular intervals on this route.
2. Medina To Khaybar
On this route one will pass through the enigmatic Harrat Khaybar volcanic fields, which are a stark contrast to the sweeping dunes that one is accustomed to on road trips in Saudi Arabia. Once in Khaybar, you’ll have to get out of your car and explore the historic town and its imposing fortress on foot – just the place to slay the ‘gram.
3. Haradh to Batha
The road to the Batha border called Highway 10 is ultra-smooth with sweeping views of the undulating terrain on both sides. But that’s not the only special thing about this road. This stretch is the longest straight road on the planet running 240 km. No bends, no curves – just a straight 2 hr drive through the desert. Just remember to bring all your essentials along with you as there is little in the way of shops here.
4. Al Baha To Dhee Ayn
Snake your way down the winding road that is rewarding both in terms of the drive and the picture perfect scenery that one gets to see while passing through it. If you are one of those who have a hankering for history then the 400-year-old village of Dhee Ayn that rests atop a rocky white outcrop is bound to take your breath away. Don’t forget to see the freshwater spring while you’re there.
5. Jazan To Faifa
You may feel bored in the early part of this road trip but wait till you begin your ascent to Faifa where nature thrives. You’d be hard-pressed to not stop and be in awe of the gorgeous scenery. You may need 4×4 to deal with the death-defying mountainous roads if you’re planning to head deeper into the mountains beyond Faifa.
Dont Forget!
- Powerbanks (yes, in the plural)
- Portable tire inflator
- Jump starter
- Picnic mat
- Bottle of coolant
- Tow bar (if your car isn’t already fitted with one)
- Spare tire and jack
- Offline maps
Quintessential snacks to stock up on from the roadside supermarkets:
- Laban
- Chips
- Maamoul/Cookies
- Zaatar Croissants
- Drinks/Juice