From November to March the desert around Riyadh becomes the city's favourite weekend room. Families and friends drive out in the afternoon, light a small fire, make tea and stay until the stars come out. This is the kashta, and with the right planning it is one of the best experiences in Saudi Arabia.
Where people camp around Riyadh
- Thumamah, north of the city: the King Khalid Royal Reserve area is the closest open desert for many Riyadh districts, so it suits a short evening trip.
- Rawdat Khuraim and the rawdat to the north-east: green meadows after good rains, about 100 km from Riyadh. Read our Rawdat Khuraim guide.
- The red sands on the Makkah road: soft dunes west of the city, popular for sunset. See red sand dunes near Riyadh.
- Organised winter camps: some royal reserves run seasonal camps with tents, activities and facilities, a good choice for a first kashta with children.
Permits and rules you should know
Many camping sites now need an online permit from the National Center for Vegetation Cover (NCVC), and royal reserves have their own entry rules and opening hours. Check the official site of the area before you go. A few rules apply almost everywhere:
- Light fires only where it is allowed, and use bought charcoal or wood, never wood cut from local trees. Cutting trees carries very heavy fines.
- Do not drive over plants or into protected wadis and meadows.
- Take every piece of rubbish home with you.
A packing list that works
- Water: at least 3 litres per person, plus extra for tea and washing.
- Warm layers and blankets; desert nights in January can drop close to zero.
- A ground mat, folding chairs and a small table.
- A torch or headlamp and a power bank.
- A first-aid kit and any medicines you need.
- A full tank of fuel and the car's spare tyre checked before you leave.
Safety: never use a charcoal heater or burner inside a closed tent or car. Carbon monoxide has no smell and is a real winter danger.
Which car should you rent?
- Paved roads and firm camp sites: a family SUV such as the Geely Okavango is comfortable and has room for gear.
- Soft sand and dunes: a real 4x4 such as the Toyota Land Cruiser or the Suzuki Jimny for two or three people.
- A big group: the Chevrolet Tahoe seats seven with space for cool boxes.
Our SUV and 4x4 guide for desert trips explains tyre pressure and how to get out of soft sand.
Book for the weekend
Winter weekends are busy, so book two or three days ahead. A weekly rental often costs little more than a long weekend and lets you camp twice. Daily rental in Riyadh starts from SAR 87.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for a kashta near Riyadh?
From late November to early March, when days are mild and nights are cool. After rain the meadows are at their best.
Do I need a 4x4 for camping?
Not always. Many sites are close to paved roads. For soft sand or dunes, a real 4x4 is safer.
Can I take a rental car off-road?
Stay on firm tracks and avoid risky dune driving. Ask the branch about any off-road limits in your contract.
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