If you have lived in Saudi Arabia for quite some time and have not tried desert camping yet, then you’re missing out! It’s an activity rich with tradition and tranquility that is at the heart of Saudi culture. Here is a quick guide for you as the camping season runs full swing this month.
The roots of Saudi Arabia lie in the desert. Their ancestors were the Bedouins: desert dwellers whose lives revolved in sustaining the land around them. They were simple and peaceful people; traits that modern life today has us longing for. Fortunately, the desert is just an hour or less of a car ride from the city center, and people can partake in a quick getaway for a genuine Saudi camping experience.
I sought the expertise of Mr. Abdulrahman Alzahrani, a licensed tour guide in Riyadh. He has been in hundreds of camping and hiking trips for various organizations and he shared details on what we should know about camping in Riyadh.
You have toured many expats around Saudi Arabia. What can expats expect from a camping experience in Riyadh and in Saudi Arabia in general?
For the expats, they can expect to experience our Bedouin lifestyle. The camping experience helps show them how Bedouins used to live, prepare their food, how they make their drinks such as gahwa and how they gather at night around a bonfire to talk to each other and maybe enjoy a little music. Camping is also a refreshing experience, especially during the moments that you watch the sunrise or the sunset over the desert or the mountains. For me, the best part of camping is when you achieve some peace of mind.
What should people know before embarking on a camping trip? What are the do’s and don’ts?
First of all, choose the right location when setting up your camp. This will ensure your safety and is the most important thing to consider. It is best to choose hill top or higher land locations so that you will be visible to other campers. There are many cars that tend to roam around in the desert and if you are in a low area and the cars are playing around, they might not see you and it is possible that it may result in an accident.
Second, make sure that your vehicle is appropriate for the desert. Sedans are not advisable as they do not travel well in rocky or desert terrains. SUVs or 4×4 AWD are most suitable for the trip and will ensure that you can get in and out of the dirt roads easily.
Finally, bring the essential equipment needed. You’ll need your tent, some carpets for seating, enough food and water, blankets and jackets to keep you warm during the night, a set of flash lights, wood and fire materials (if you plan on making a bonfire), and musical instruments (if you want some entertainment).
Which sites do you recommend for camping in Riyadh?
The Red Sand and Thumamah National Park are the most popular camping spots in Riyadh. However, they can be crowded already.
I personally recommend the Altoggi area (near the Camel Souk and about an hour away from Riyadh center); Nesah area, which have buggy rides; and the Almuzahamiya area, which is optimal for an overnight camp.
There are also camp-ready sites that already have the facilities in place, such as the outdoor seating, a bathroom, kitchen, and tent. They can always contact me if they want to explore these options.
Other notable camp sites in Saudi Arabia are Al Soudah Mountains (Abha), Al Habala and Tanumah (Asir) and Wahba Crater (Taif).
Desert camping is one of the simple pleasures of Saudi life and it is something that you cannot always experience anywhere else in the world. Bring your friends or family together for an outdoor activity that will create memories of your stay here. More importantly, have a taste of that scenery and serenity that the desert offers.
Where to buy Camping Materials:
– Al Rimaya for Outdoor and Camping Equipment
– SACO
– Kuwaiti Souk / Souk Taibah
– Carrefour
– Lulu Hypermarket
Camping Essentials:
– Awning/tent
– Majlis or camping chairs
– Sleeping bag
– Pillows
– Flashlights
– Tent repair kits
– Spare batteries
– First aid kit
– Two-way radio (in case there is no cell service)
For Riyadh camping inquiries, contact:
Abdulrahman Mohammad Alzahrani
Licensed Tour Guide
Member of the Saudi Tour Guide Association
Mobile: +966 56 9313493
