Travelling across the Kingdom by road is one of the most rewarding ways to truly experience Saudi Arabia. While cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, Madinah, and Dammam are modern and full of history, the most memorable adventures often begin once you leave the city limits and follow the open highway into mountains, deserts, and coastal stretches. Many travelers describe driving here as a journey through time, from ancient stone villages to untouched natural landscapes shaped by centuries of wind and sand.
Saudi Arabia’s transportation system continues to grow rapidly, with rail links and airports expanding nationwide. Yet, even with all this progress, the freedom and beauty of road trips in Saudi Arabia remain unmatched. High-quality highways, low fuel prices compared to many countries, and convenient car rental services make it simple for families, friends, or solo travelers to head out and explore. Whether you enjoy mountain views, peaceful coastline drives, or desert silence, you will find a route that inspires reflection and appreciation for the country’s natural beauty.
This guide highlights some of the best road trips in Saudi Arabia, helping you plan your travel with useful tips, estimated costs, and recommended stops along each route. From the cool forests of Al Baha to the endless sand dunes of the Empty Quarter, each journey offers something unique. All the activities mentioned are halal-friendly, focused on enjoying nature, culture, history, and peaceful outdoor experiences. These routes are perfect for travelers seeking memorable and meaningful trips across the Kingdom.
Important Driving Tips Before You Start
Driving in Saudi Arabia is comfortable for most visitors thanks to wide roads, clear signs, and many petrol stations. Still, a few reminders help ensure a smooth trip:
Know the speed limits
Highways allow around 120 km/h, and cameras are common. Going over the limit can cost around SAR 900 or more in fines, so drive safely and avoid unnecessary hassle.
Choosing the right car
• Standard sedan = fine for major routes and city-to-city travel
• 4×4 = recommended for desert trips, AlUla off-road zones, and mountain roads
Average car rental cost
• Economy car: SAR 120 – SAR 180 per day
• SUV/4×4: SAR 250 – SAR 450 per day
Fuel prices
• Approx. SAR 2.18 per liter (average; varies slightly by region)
Essential items
Carry water, snacks, prayer mat, phone charger, and cash for small towns. Masjids are found on major roads and in villages, making it easy to stop for prayer.
Top 5 Most Spectacular Road Trips in Saudi Arabia
1. Jeddah to Al Baha: Forests, Mountains & Heritage Villages
Distance: ~850 km round trip
Drive time: ~9 hours total
Suggested rental: Standard car or SUV
Estimated fuel cost: SAR 150–220
The journey from Jeddah to Al Baha is one of the most refreshing road trips in Saudi Arabia, especially for those who love mountain scenery, clean air, and historic sites. Leaving Jeddah’s coastline behind, the road slowly climbs into the mountains toward forests, farms, and cool breezes. The region is famous for its qasbah towers, rocky cliffs, and terraces of greenery.
A major stop on this route is the stunning Thee Ain Village, often called the Marble Village because its stone structures shine when sunlight hits the white mountain beneath them. Built centuries ago, this village stands surrounded by flowing water from natural springs, tropical plants, and fruit trees like bananas. Exploring its pathways gives you a real sense of ancient Arabian architecture and rural life. Entry to the village is usually free or around SAR 10–20 depending on seasonal services.
Before reaching Al Baha city, consider visiting Jabal Shada Nature Reserve, home to rare plant species and caves used historically by mountain tribes. The reserve is open to visitors for light hiking, nature photography, and enjoying peaceful viewpoints.
On your return, you may continue straight back to Jeddah or take a different route through Taif. Taif is known for rose farms, mountain roads, fresh fruit shops, and walking spots perfect for families. Hotels in Al Baha and Taif range between SAR 200–450 per night depending on the season.
2. Jeddah to Jazan: Waterfalls, Islands & Mountain Valleys
Distance: ~715 km round trip
Drive time: ~8 hours each way
Suggested rental: SUV recommended
Estimated fuel cost: SAR 180–260
The drive from Jeddah to Jazan showcases a very different side of Saudi Arabia — tropical coastline, volcanic mountains, and deep valleys filled with waterfalls and palm trees. This route is often described as one of the best road trips in Saudi Arabia for nature-lovers.
Once in Jazan, the must-see destination is Wadi Lajab, a canyon with narrow rock walls, flowing water, and lush palm trees reaching impressive heights. Walking through the canyon, enjoying gentle water streams, and taking in the peaceful environment makes it a special spot. Entry is free, but local guides sometimes offer assistance for SAR 30–50.
Jazan also provides access to the Farasan Islands, often called the Maldives of Saudi Arabia because of their clear blue water, coral reefs, and untouched beaches. The government ferry from Jazan to Farasan is usually free, but booking in advance is smart. Activities include snorkeling, swimming, simple picnics by the shore, and peaceful nature observation.
Another interesting stop is Jebel Al Qahar, where you will find scenic mountain roads and small traditional villages. Accommodation in Jazan ranges SAR 180–350 per night, and food is generally affordable. If you prefer a shorter trip, some travelers fly to nearby Abha and drive three hours down to Jazan.
3. Tabuk to AlUla: Desert Wonders & Ancient Civilization
Distance: ~650 km round trip
Drive time: ~8 hours total
Suggested rental: 4×4 strongly recommended
Estimated fuel cost: SAR 140–210
AlUla is one of the most stunning heritage destinations in the world, making this route among the most iconic road trips in Saudi Arabia. The landscape here feels like a natural museum, with sandstone mountains shaped by time, quiet desert valleys, and palm-filled oases.
Starting in Tabuk is convenient, as the city has an airport and multiple hotels. The road to AlUla passes through open desert views, making the journey peaceful and ideal for reflection. One of the most famous spots in AlUla is Elephant Rock, a massive natural rock formation shaped like an elephant. Visitors can walk around, relax on the ground mats placed nearby, and enjoy the scenery.
Entry to many sites in AlUla requires early booking, especially for Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tours typically range SAR 95–200 per person depending on the location. Because the region has rough desert roads, renting a 4×4 or booking a local tour is recommended if you plan to explore beyond the main town.
On your return, instead of driving back the same way, consider passing through the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Royal Reserve or heading toward the Red Sea near Sharma, where peaceful beaches allow quiet walks and relaxation.
Hotels in AlUla range widely, from SAR 250 for basic stays to SAR 1000+ at resorts.
4. Dammam / Al-Khobar via Highway 5: A Gulf Coast Drive
Distance: ~615 km
Drive time: ~6 hours one way
Suggested rental: Standard car
Estimated fuel cost: SAR 120–180
Highway 5 hugs the Arabian Gulf coastline and connects Saudi Arabia from the Kuwaiti border down toward the UAE. This route offers a relaxed coastal experience, making it one of the easiest and most scenic road trips in Saudi Arabia for beginners and families.
Starting in Al-Khobar or Dammam, you can stop at quiet beaches like Al Fanateer Beach and Al Nakheel Beach near Jubail. These areas are perfect for peaceful walks, family picnics, fishing, and simple outdoor activities. South of Dammam is Al Uqair Fort, one of the oldest coastal forts in the region, offering a glimpse into early Arabian Gulf history. Entry is usually free.
If you enjoy long drives, you may continue all the way down toward the UAE border, or simply explore sections of the coastline. Hotels along the route range SAR 200–450, and food stops are widely available.
5. Riyadh to the Empty Quarter: The World’s Largest Sand Desert
Distance: ~600 km round trip
Drive time: 8–10 hours total
Suggested rental: 4×4 required
Estimated fuel cost: SAR 120–170
This journey takes you from the busy streets of Riyadh into the quiet and powerful landscape of Rub’ Al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter — the largest sand desert on Earth. It is one of the most dramatic and adventurous road trips in Saudi Arabia.
The route passes through Haradh, with small villages and natural areas along the way, including Umm Al Hadid sulfur springs. Past Haradh, the road leads deeper into rolling sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. This environment brings a sense of peace, reflection, and appreciation for the strength of nature.
A 4×4 is necessary, as wind can sometimes blow sand onto the asphalt. Visitors are advised to travel prepared with plenty of water, snacks, a spare tire, navigation tools, and full fuel. Desert camps and guided tours in the region range SAR 300–800 depending on services.
Nearby is Highway 10, known as the longest straight road in the world, stretching about 240 km without turns. The vast scenery makes you feel very small, reminding you of the greatness of Allah’s creation and the quiet beauty of remote landscapes.
Conclusion: Why Road Trips in Saudi Arabia Are Truly Special
Traveling by road gives you time to slow down, appreciate different regions, and discover hidden places that most visitors never see. From mountain peaks to peaceful coastlines and desert horizons, each route offers a new view of the Kingdom’s beauty.
Choosing one of these routes — or completing several over time — will leave you with lasting memories of nature, culture, and history. These best road trips in Saudi Arabia bring travelers closer to the land and highlight how diverse and rich the country truly is.
Whether you are an explorer, a family traveler, or someone seeking quiet natural space, road travel across Saudi Arabia invites you to connect with the journey, enjoy the scenery, and experience the Kingdom at your own pace.
