Situated near the bustling capital of Riyadh, Red Sand Dunes are one of the most popular destinations in Saudi Arabia. Locally referred to as ‘Nafud al Mazhur’, this place is ideal for adventurous activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, ATV ride, and more. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, this stunning desert is a must-visit in Saudi Arabia. In this guide, we have covered top activities, best time to visit, how to get there, tips, and what to expect.
How to Get to Red Sand Dunes?
Red Sand Dunes are located around 30 to 45 minutes northeast of Riyadh, near Al Nafal or Thumamah National Park. These dunes are part of Al Nafud Desert, known for its reddish hue due to high iron oxide content in the sand.
There are several ways to reach Red Sand Dunes from Riyadh.
- By Car (Recommended):
Traveling by car is the easiest and most flexible option. You can use a GPS app like Google Maps or Careem and set your destination to Red Sand Dunes or Nafud Al-Mazhur.
Tip: A 4x4 vehicle is ideal if you plan to drive on the sand.
- Tour Packages:
Many local tour operators offer half-day or full-day desert safari packages, including transport, dune bashing, sandboarding, and even BBQ dinners.
- Ride-sharing Apps:
You can also reach Red Sand Dunes Saudi Arabia via ride-sharing apps like Careem or Uber might drop you off, but arranging a return trip can be tricky due to limited coverage.
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Top Activities to Enjoy in Red Sand Dunes Saudi Arabia
1. Dune Bashing
Hop on to a 4x4 SUV for a thrilling ride across the dunes. Even some areas have rental operators offering short sessions for visitors without their own vehicles.
2. Sandboarding
Sliding down red dunes is exhilarating and fun for all ages. Bring your own board or rent one from local vendors.
3. ATV & Quad Biking
If you are an adventure lover, you must opt for an ATV or quad bike ride. There are multiple rental stations near dunes offering quad bikes for hourly rates. This is one of the best things to do in Saudi Arabia among locals and tourists alike.
4. Camping
Camping is also one of the great things to enjoy in Red Sand Dunes, Saudi Arabia. Enjoy a stay in the tent and soak in the peaceful desert ambiance. Enjoy light refreshments or BBQ for sunset dinners in the dunes.
5. Photography
Sunrise and sunset are the perfect time to capture the beautiful lighting and landscape. The contrast of red sand, blue sky and shadows on the dunes makes for spectacular photography.
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Best Time to Visit Red Sand Dunes Saudi Arabia
- October to April is the best time to visit with temperatures between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius, perfect for outdoor activities.
- It is advisable to visit Red Sand Dunes in the early morning or late afternoon. It is better to avoid visiting during mid-day when temperatures rise above 45 degrees Celsius.
Nearby Attractions
If you want to extend your day trip, consider visiting:
- Thumamah National Park
- Edge of the World or Jebel Fihrayn
Travel Tips for Visiting Red Sand Dunes
- Bring water and snacks as there are no shops directly at the dunes
- Wear loose, breathable clothes, sunglasses, a hat and closed-toe shoes
- Sunscreen is essential even during cooler months
- Check your car and make sure your vehicle is suitable for sand
- Avoid getting stuck by staying on hard-packed area
- Avoid littering and respect local customs
- Consider going with a guide if you're new to desert driving or want a stress-free experience
Red Sand Dunes in Saudi Arabia offer a truly unforgettable desert experience. Whether you are spending a couple of hours or the entire day, this is one of the most rewarding outdoor escapes from Riyadh. If you're planning a trip to Saudi Arabia or are already in Riyadh, don’t miss this incredible natural wonder. You can choose from the best Saudi Arabia tour packages and book one as per your interests.
FAQ’s - Red Sand Dunes Saudi Arabia
Red Sand Dunes are located around 30–45 minutes from Riyadh, near Thumamah National Park. They are part of the larger Al-Nafud desert region.
A 4x4 vehicle is recommended if you plan to drive on the dunes. However, if you’re just visiting the edge or planning to walk, a regular car can take you close enough to park safely.
Top activities include dune bashing, sandboarding, quad biking, photography and camping. Many visitors also enjoy picnicking or watching the sunset.
No, there’s no official entrance fee. However, certain activities like quad biking or guided tours will have costs.
The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Early morning or late afternoon are ideal to avoid the heat and enjoy lighting.
There are no shops or restrooms directly on the dunes, so it’s best to bring your own water, snacks and supplies. Some local vendors rent sandboards or ATVs nearby.
Yes, dunes are easily accessible on your own, especially if you have a car. However, if you're unfamiliar with desert driving or want to enjoy activities without stress, a guided tour is a good option.
Camping is allowed and popular among locals, especially on weekends. For safety, it's best to go with a group, bring enough supplies, and let someone know your location.
