Riyadh to Abha by Car: Three Routes to the Asir Mountains

Abha and the Asir mountains are the Kingdom's favourite summer escape: green peaks, fog, cool air and stone villages. Driving there from Riyadh is a real adventure, and you can choose between a faster inland road and a slower scenic one.

Route 1: inland via Bisha (the shortest)

• Distance: about 970 km, 9 to 10 hours of driving.
• Way: west and south-west from Riyadh through Al Muzahmiyah and Bisha, then Khamis Mushait and Abha.
• Best when you want to reach the mountains in one long day.

Route 2: via Wadi Al Dawasir

• Distance: about 1,120 km, 11 to 12 hours.
• Way: south through Al Kharj, Al Aflaj, Al Sulayyil and Wadi Al Dawasir, then Tathleeth, Bisha and Khamis Mushait.
• Longer, with fewer services on some stretches; fill up at every chance.

Route 3: the scenic way through Taif

Drive from Riyadh to Taif, about 780 km, then follow the mountain road south through Al Baha, Al Namas and Tanomah to Abha. It takes several days, but it is the most beautiful drive in the Kingdom. Sajil has a branch in Taif, so you can also start the mountain part there. Read Taif to Al Baha and Abha by car.

What to see around Abha

• Al Soudah, the high mountain area with forests and cable-car views.
• Rijal Alma, a heritage village of stone towers down the escarpment.
• Al Muftaha village, Abha's arts quarter with painted houses and galleries.
• Khamis Mushait, Abha's busy neighbour for shopping and markets.

See the Abha guide for more.

Which car for a 1,000 km trip?

• Comfort first: the Toyota Land Cruiser or Chevrolet Tahoe for big families and mountain roads.
• Small family: the Geely Coolray, whose turbo engine handles the climbs.
• Fuel matters: the Hyundai Elantra is a good balance. Read how to save fuel.

Safety on the long road south

• Leave early, take a break every two hours and avoid driving the empty stretches late at night.
• In the mountains, expect fog in summer afternoons and sudden rain; slow down and use low beams.
• Book a weekly rental: a trip to Abha is rarely shorter than five days.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a Sajil branch in Abha?

Not yet. Rent in Riyadh or Taif and return the car to a Sajil branch.

Which route is best with children?

Route 1 via Bisha is the shortest. Split it with a night in Bisha if the children get tired.

When is the best time to go?

June to September for cool weather in the mountains.