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  1. Travel and More
  2. Outdoors and Camping
  3. Weekend Escapes from Riyadh: 5 Nearby Destinations to Recharge in Style

Weekend Escapes from Riyadh: 5 Nearby Destinations to Recharge in Style

22 May 2025
  • Why does Edge of the World stand out for nature lovers?
  • What makes Ushaiger a rich stop for history enthusiasts?
  • Why is this destination perfect for all age groups?
  • What makes visiting Al Bassam House a cultural highlight?
  • How does Dammam offer a different kind of weekend escape?

Riyadh is more than a capital city it’s the perfect base for short getaways that break routine and refresh the mind. Whether craving dramatic mountain views, heritage-rich villages, or coastal serenity, men in Saudi Arabia can find road-trip escapes that offer a new experience every time. Here are five handpicked destinations, each reachable by car in under four hours, blending nature, culture, and adventure into a memorable weekend.

Edge of the World Views

Edge of the World Views

Just two and a half hours from Riyadh, this stunning cliff in the Tuwaiq Mountains offers surreal, Mars-like views. Reaching the site requires a 4x4 vehicle due to unpaved sections. A short walk leads to the edge, where panoramic vistas stretch endlessly. Those who camp overnight enjoy a dramatic sunset and a clear, star-filled sky perfect for disconnecting and reconnecting.

Ushaiger Heritage Village

Ushaiger Heritage Village

Located two hours from Riyadh, Ushaiger is one of the oldest mud-brick villages in the Najd region. Its winding alleys and restored houses tell stories that span over 1,500 years. Once a major stop for pilgrims, the village now invites visitors to explore its old mosques and tribal museums especially those honoring the legacy of the Tamim tribe.

Al Qarah Mountain & Al Ahsa Oasis

Al Qarah Mountain & Al Ahsa Oasis

A four-hour drive east leads to Al Ahsa Oasis and the unique Al Qarah Mountain. The site features cool, shaded caves stretching 1.5 km ideal for families and seniors alike. Nearby, travelers can reach Yellow Lake by driving over sand dunes, where sunset brings breathtaking views that reward every photographer and nature lover.

Al Bassam House in Unaizah

Al Bassam House in Unaizah

In the heart of Qassim, the town of Unaizah hosts Al Bassam House, a 30-room mud-brick mansion showcasing classic Najdi architecture. Intricate woodwork, high ceilings, and themed rooms (including a bridal suite and weapons display hall) bring heritage to life. Visitors can also explore nearby museums or relax by the scenic lake park just 3.5 hours from Riyadh.

Dammam’s Coastal and Cultural Mix

Dammam’s Coastal and Cultural Mix

Four hours from Riyadh, Dammam welcomes sea lovers with its scenic corniche, food trucks, and family-friendly spaces. The Heritage Village offers a fortress-like setting filled with classic cars, Saudi antiques, and traditional meals. Evening visitors often head to Marjan Island for coastal views, while culture seekers make their way to Ithra in Dhahran, a stunning cultural center housing museums, exhibitions, and a state-of-the-art cinema.

Ahd Kamal

BY Ahd Kamal

Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.

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