The red sand dunes outside Riyadh are the quickest way to get into the desert, and the experience is built for visitors. Tours collect you from the city and drive to the dunes, where a 4x4 takes you over the crests in a thrill ride known as dune bashing, then you can ride a camel, try sandboarding and, on some tours, ride a quad bike. Many trips time the visit for sunset and finish with tea, coffee and dinner at a desert camp, with a fire and traditional seating. It is a much shorter outing than the Edge of the World and a good fit for a free afternoon, and the dunes are fine and soft with the typical orange-red colour of central Arabia.
Why it matters
Saudi Arabia’s desert is a large part of its identity, and this is the simplest way to experience it without a long drive or a camping trip. The dunes change colour with the light, the camel ride shows a traditional way of travelling and the camp gives a taste of desert hospitality with Arabic coffee and dates.
How to visit
The tour linked here combines dune bashing, a quad or ATV ride, a camel ride and sandboarding, and many operators offer similar packages with dinner or stargazing, so compare what is included, the pickup point and the group size. Most trips take around half a day. Dune bashing is bumpy and fast, so tell your driver if you want a gentler ride, and avoid it if you have back or neck problems or are pregnant.
Plan for comfort
Go in the cooler months and in the late afternoon, wear light clothing that covers your skin, bring a scarf for dust and sun, and carry a warm layer for after sunset. Closed shoes are easier than sandals in the sand. Keep phones and cameras in a zip bag to protect them from dust, and follow the guides’ safety instructions on quad bikes and camels.
What to expect
The experience
A guided desert trip with a 4x4 dune drive, a camel ride, sandboarding or a quad bike, often ending with tea and dinner at a camp.
Best time
Late afternoon through sunset, in the cooler months from about November to March.
How long
Three to five hours, including the drive from Riyadh.
Tips
Wear light clothing that covers your skin, bring a scarf and a warm layer, and protect phones from dust.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want a quick, fun desert experience without a long drive.
- Families
- Camels and sandboarding are popular with children, though dune bashing is bumpy and not for everyone.
- Couples
- A sunset camel ride and a camp dinner make an easy evening for two.
- Pair with
- The Edge of the World on another day, or an evening at Bujairi Terrace.
- Time needed
- Allow a half-day, around three to five hours.
Good questions
What is dune bashing?+
It is a fast 4x4 drive over and between sand dunes, with steep climbs and descents. It is bumpy, so tell your driver if you would like a gentler ride.
Is it suitable for children?+
Many families enjoy it, particularly the camel ride and sandboarding, but the dune drive is bumpy. Ask the operator about age and seat rules.
How long does the trip take?+
Most trips last around half a day, including the drive from Riyadh. Longer packages add dinner or stargazing at a camp.
What should I wear?+
Wear light clothing that covers your skin, closed shoes and a hat or scarf, and bring a warm layer for after sunset.
When is the best time to go?+
The cooler months, from about November to March, in the late afternoon. Summer afternoons are too hot for outdoor activity.
