Red Sand Dunes near Riyadh: A Driving Guide for a Desert Afternoon

West of Riyadh, along the Makkah highway, the ground changes colour: the beige plateau gives way to tall dunes of deep orange-red sand. On winter afternoons families, friends and photographers head out to climb the dunes, ride quad bikes and watch the sunset. It is one of the easiest desert trips from the city.

How to get there

Take the Makkah road (Route 40) west from Riyadh, past the escarpment. The dune area starts roughly an hour to an hour and a quarter from the city, depending on where you begin. The Tuwaiq branch and Wadi Laban branch in west Riyadh are right on the way out.

Where to stop

• Use the wide, firm pull-off areas and the spots where quad bike and camel rental operators set up; the ground there is packed hard.
• Do not drive a normal car onto soft sand. Park on firm ground and walk up the dunes.
• Leave the highway only at proper exits; crossing the central reservation or shoulder is dangerous and fined.

Quad bikes and camels

Operators along the road rent quad bikes and offer camel rides, mainly in the afternoon and on weekends. Agree the price and time before you start, wear the helmet they provide and keep children on suitable small bikes.

Which rental car?

For the trip itself any car is fine, because you drive on the highway and park on firm ground. If you plan to drive into the dunes, you need a proper 4x4 like the Toyota Land Cruiser or Suzuki Jimny and sand-driving experience; insurance normally does not cover off-road damage.

What to bring

• Water, snacks and a blanket or camping chairs.
• A torch or headlamp if you stay after sunset.
• A bag for your rubbish: leave the dunes as clean as you found them.

Best time to go

October to March, from about 3 pm until sunset. In summer the sand is far too hot in the afternoon.

Prices today

• Daily rental in Riyadh from SAR 87 per day.
• Weekly rental from SAR 882 per week.

Frequently asked questions

How far are the red sand dunes from Riyadh?

Roughly an hour to an hour and a quarter west of the city along the Makkah road.

Can I drive a rental sedan to the red sand dunes?

Yes, to the roadside stops on firm ground. Do not drive it onto the soft sand.

Is it safe to visit at night?

Stay near other visitors and the operators' areas, keep your lights on and avoid driving on sand in the dark.