Edge of the World from Riyadh: Can You Drive There in a Rental Car?

The Edge of the World, on the Tuwaiq escarpment north-west of Riyadh, is where the plateau ends in sheer cliffs above an endless plain. It is one of the most photographed places in Saudi Arabia, and also one of the most misunderstood trips: the last part is not a normal road.

The route in short

• The first part is on paved highway north-west of Riyadh, roughly one to one and a half hours from the city.
• The final stretch, around 20 km or more depending on the route, is a rough desert track with rocks, soft sand and steep sections.
• There is no mobile signal in parts of the area, no shade and no services.

Can you take a rental car?

An ordinary sedan should not be driven on the final track: the ground clearance is too low and it is easy to get stuck or damage the underside. Remember that rental insurance usually does not cover damage caused by off-road driving, so you would pay for it yourself.

If you want to drive yourself, you need a real 4x4 with high clearance, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser or the Chevrolet Tahoe, and experience driving on sand and rock. Ask the branch about off-road use before you book, and read our guide to SUV and 4x4 rental for desert trips.

The easier option: drive to the meeting point, join a tour

Many visitors rent a normal car for their stay, drive to a tour company's meeting point or hotel, and do the final stretch with a licensed guide in a 4x4. Access rules for the area have changed over the years, with periods when only organised visits were allowed, so check the current situation before you go.

Safety checklist

• Go in a group of at least two cars if you drive yourself.
• Carry plenty of water, food, a full tank, a charged phone and a power bank.
• Start early or go for sunset, but never drive the track in the dark if you do not know it.
• Stay well back from the cliff edge; there are no barriers.
• Avoid the trip in the hottest summer months and after heavy rain.

Prices today

• Daily rental in Riyadh from SAR 87 per day.

Frequently asked questions

How far is the Edge of the World from Riyadh?

Roughly one and a half to two and a half hours each way, including the off-road section.

Do I need a 4x4 to reach the Edge of the World?

For the final track, yes: a high-clearance 4x4 and off-road experience, or a guided tour.

Is the Edge of the World open now?

Access arrangements change, so check current information from tour operators or official sources before going.