You do not have to fly anywhere for a good weekend. Within a few hours of Riyadh there are heritage towns, red dunes, cliffs and green meadows after the rains. Here are eight outings and the kind of car each one needs.
1. Diriyah (about 20 km)
The At-Turaif district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Al Bujairi Terrace with its restaurants overlooking Wadi Hanifa. Any car will do; the roads are excellent.
2. Wadi Hanifa (inside the city)
Long walking paths, shaded picnic spots and lakes running through the west of the city. A short drive from the Wadi Laban branch.
3. The Red Sands (about 60 km west)
Orange dunes off the Makkah road, popular for sunsets, camping and sandboarding. Drive to the edge on asphalt in any car, but go into the dunes only with a 4x4.
4. Edge of the World (about 100 km north-west)
Dramatic cliffs of the Tuwaiq escarpment with views over an endless plain. The last part is a rough track, so a high car or 4x4 such as the Toyota Land Cruiser is the safe choice. Check the current access rules before you go, and leave before the afternoon heat in summer.
5. Al Thumamah (about 60 km north)
Wide desert parks and camping areas, very busy on winter nights. A crossover like the Geely Coolray is fine on the main tracks.
6. Rawdat Khuraim (about 100 km north-east)
A meadow that turns green after good rains in winter and spring, with wild flowers and shade trees. Go after a rainy week and drive carefully on soft ground.
7. Ushaiger heritage village (about 200 km north-west)
A beautifully kept mud-brick village with narrow lanes, a mosque and family museums. Combine it with the old town of Shaqra for a full day trip.
8. Riyadh Season venues
From October to March, Riyadh Season brings concerts, markets and attractions across the city. Parking is easier if you arrive early.
Choosing the car for the weekend
- City and heritage outings: the Hyundai Accent or Toyota Yaris.
- Desert and dunes: the Suzuki Jimny for two, or a full-size 4x4 for a group. Read SUV and 4x4 rental for desert trips.
- The whole family: the Kia Carnival or Geely Okavango.
A weekend rental from Thursday to Saturday is usually cheaper as a 3-day daily rental. If you go out every weekend, compare it with weekly rental.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take a rental car into the desert?
On graded tracks with the right car, yes. Do not drive a sedan onto sand, and follow the rental contract.
Which Riyadh branch is best for trips north?
The north Riyadh branches, Al Arid, Al Aqiq and Al Maseef. See car rental in north Riyadh.
What should I pack for a desert trip?
Plenty of water, a full tank, a phone charger, a torch and a small shovel, and tell someone your route.
Ready for the road?
Daily, weekly and monthly car rental from our branches across the Kingdom.
