Red Sand Dunes

The Red Sand Dunes, located near Riyadh, offer a stunning desert escape with golden-red sands and breathtaking views. A paradise for adventure lovers. Visitors can enjoy dune bashing, quad biking, sandboarding, camel rides, and falconry. The contrast of red dunes, blue skies, and green plateaus creates a serene landscape, perfect for photography and picnics. As the sun sets, the dunes glow in rich hues, making for an unforgettable experience. If you are seeking adventure or relaxation, the Red Sand Dunes offer a perfect blend of nature, excitement, and Arabian culture.

How to get there

• By Air: Fly into King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and take a taxi to the Red Sand Dunes, located about 90 km west of Riyadh, with a travel time of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
• By Taxi: Take a taxi from anywhere in Riyadh to the Red Sand Dunes. The fare ranges from SAR 150–250.

Timings and Tickets

• Opening Hours: 7:00AM-8:00PM
• Morning trip: 7:00AM-11:00AM
• Evening trip: 2:00pm-7:00PM
• Entry Fee: SAR200 to SAR400

Things to do 

• Dune bashing: Get the adrenaline rush of being driven in a 4x4 vehicle through the massive dunes.
• Sandboarding: Bind a board to your feet and slide down the sandy hills for the thrill.
• Quad biking: Ride the wide stretch of the dunes at your own speed on a strong quad bike.
• Camel riding: Have a classic desert experience by going for a ride on a camel over the sands.
• Photography: Capture the breathtaking beauty of the red dunes, particularly at dawn or dusk, for pictorial moments.
• Picnics: Take a meal and have a picnic in the peaceful desert scenery.
• Stargazing: At nightfall, the desert sky is lit up by millions of stars, providing a spectacular stargazing session.
• Camping: Overnight in a desert camp under the stars and soak in the peace of the environment.

Travel Tips

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from the strong desert sun.
• Wear closed-toe shoes or sandals that are comfortable for walking on sand.
• The best time to visit the Red Sand Dunes is during the cooler months (October to April) to avoid extreme heat.
• Visit the dunes early in the morning or late in the afternoon to catch the stunning sunrise or sunset views and avoid the midday heat.
• Consider booking a tour with an experienced guide, especially if you plan on doing activities like dune bashing or quad biking.

Interesting facts

• The vibrant red color of the sand comes from the high iron oxide content in the sand. This is essentially the same process that makes rust red!
• The wind is a powerful force in the desert, and it constantly reshapes the dunes. This means the dunes are always changing, and no two visits are ever quite the same.
• The Red Sand Dunes are a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for adventure and stunning scenery.

FAQs

What are the activities I can do at red sand dunes?

Activities that you can do are sandboarding, Dune bashing, camel riding, Photography and Stargazing.

What is the best time to visit red sand dunes?

The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon to avoid extreme heat and capture the best lighting for photography.

Do red sand dunes change over time?

Yes, red sand dunes constantly shift due to wind patterns, making them dynamic and ever-changing landscapes.

Are there animals living in red sand dunes?

Yes, despite the harsh conditions, red sand dunes are home to various desert animals like lizards, beetles, foxes, and sometimes even camels.

Are red sand dunes safe to visit?

Yes, the Red Sand Dunes are generally safe to visit, but caution is needed for outdoor activities. It's best to visit with a 4x4 vehicle, carry enough water, and follow safety guidelines for dune bashing and quad biking.