Head off-road this winter to these 10 incredible locations in Saudi Arabia
Adventure-seekers can follow the routes to head out for an unforgettable desert experience…
Venturing into the off-roading world can feel at once intimidating, frightening, exciting, and adventurous. Accessing some of the most remote and beautiful parts of Saudi Arabia is a major draw, yet it’s also what can make it so challenging.
The Kingdom boasts a highly diverse geography, stretching through grasslands, coastlines, mountains, and vast deserts, studded with ancient life and archaeological mysteries. Its impressive spots for dune-bashing, exploring, and camping offer off-road driving enthusiasts a once-in-a-lifetime driving experience.
Plus, the weather now is perfect for an off-road excursion. If you’ve caught the desert driving bug, GMC Arabia has prepared a few routes spanning across the country’s deserts, mountains, and shores that you might want to try.
Here’s a look at ten incredible off-roading locations in Saudi Arabia. So, round up your friends and family, get the necessary gear, and head out for an off-road adventure.
Simply click the links below for coordinates.
Riyadh:
1. Shoaib Al-Sharij Al-Awsat
Although this mountainous region of Riyadh can be rugged, this spot is a great starting point for beginners. Visit during the wet season for a smoother drive and to uncover the secret desert oases.
2. Al Uyaynah Secret Lake
Located in the midst of a barren desert, this hidden gem is overflowing with wildlife and vegetation during the winter season.
3. Haeer River Crossing
Feeding the demand of professional off-roading lovers, this river poses many challenges along its vast stretch. Be wary of crossing the river, especially during the wet seasons. However, beginner off-roaders can still enjoy it as long as they adhere to the strict rules in place.
Al Madinah:
4. Mastoorah Desert
This arid desert stretches in between cities, offering a thrilling ride for intermediate drivers. However, it is also a good option for beginners who will be reassured that they won’t stray too far off the road.
5. Hejaz Railway
Stretching through and around the city borders, this archaeological site offers many vantage points that can be visited by drivers of all off-road experiences.
6. AlUla Flower Rock
The old rock formation lives up to its history as it stands tall, resembling a dead flower. Don’t forget to drop by the ancient city of Ula in a capable off-road vehicle, as the soft sand can be a challenge.
7. Mother of Seven Volcanoes
With over 2,000 dormant volcanoes stretched along Saudi’s borders, this landmark is a sight to behold.
Makkah:
8. Shamanseer Mountain
Standing 1,600 metres above sea level, this archaeological site features old life and countless petroglyphs along its corroding walls.
9. Al Hada Palm Point
Famous for its scenic sites, beautiful sunrises and wildlife sightings, this mountainous region can be visited by all abilities across all seasons.
Tabuk:
10. Al Mafraq
This stretch of desert houses some of the region’s most aesthetic rock formations, religious sites and caves. Drivers should be able to navigate this desert with little difficulty.
What to know before you go
Before you gas up and go, take note: while the desert is a place of great adventure, it can also be the most unforgiving. So, here are some tips for off-road driving.
- Lowering your tire pressure increases the surface area of your tire, letting you essentially float across the sand and grip better to rocky terrain.
- Off-roading is all about keeping your momentum to get you across and over the soft and peak bits. Lowering your pace, thinking ahead, and keeping your engine within its power range will help keep your momentum.
- Don’t spin your tires. Spinning tires will only dig you into a deeper hole to get out of if you are not moving or risk puncturing your tire over sharp rocks.
- Drive straight over obstacles. Keeping a safe distance between yourself and the car in front is important. This is even more so when driving in the desert or up/down mountain slopes.
- Use a locator flag so that other vehicles can see you in the dunes.
- Ensure that someone knows where you are going and the final location/destination of the drive.
- Avoid driving in the sand alone. Try to have at least two vehicles on any drive.
- Ensure you have plenty of water and some snacks.
- Ensure that your vehicle is equipped with front and rear recovery points and a spare tire.
- Pack a towing kit, shovel and basic tools on every trip.
- Most importantly, have fun. Because what else do you do when off-roading?
Visit: GMCArabia.com / @GMCArabia
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