Wadi Hanifa

Wadi Hanifa, a vital water source for centuries, has sustained settlements and agriculture in Riyadh for generations. This once-key trade route, home to ancient villages, remains an important part of Najd’s cultural heritage. Today, it's a thriving eco-tourism destination, offering scenic walking trails, parks, and picnic areas. Spanning 120 km from Al-Haisiyah in the north to Al-Hayer in the south, the valley boasts stunning viewpoints, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful retreat for families, joggers, and photographers. It successfully preserves its history while providing services that allow you to enjoy the green landscapes and joyful atmosphere in the open air.

How to get there

• By Air: Fly into King Khalid International Airport, the nearest airport to Riyadh. From there, you can hire a taxi or rent a car.
• By Taxi: Take a taxi from anywhere in Riyadh directly to Wadi Hanifa. It is well-connected by roads and easily accessible.

Timings and Tickets

• Opening hours: 24/7
• Entry Fee: Entry Free (No tickets required). 

Things to do

• Take a Scenic Walk or Jog: Stroll down the neatly paved pathways and appreciate the beauty of nature within the valley.
• Relax in the Parks: Relax in one of the numerous green areas, ideal for family picnics and open-air gatherings.
• Photography & Sightseeing: Capture panoramic vistas of the rich landscapes, heritage locations, and tranquil watercourses.
• Birdwatching & Wildlife Viewing: Spot different species of birds and local wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Visit Historical Sites: Tour ancient villages and ruins that reveal the rich history of the area.
• Cycling & Outdoor Recreation: Cycle along specially designed cycling routes or take part in outdoor activities in the open spaces.
• Fishing & Kayaking: Enjoy a serene moment by the water, with some areas being suitable for fishing and kayaking.
• Watch the Sunset: Finish your visit with a breathtaking sunset view over the valley's scenic landscape.

Interesting facts

• Wadi Hanifa has been a vital water source for centuries, supporting settlements and agriculture in the region. It was also a key trade route and home to ancient villages.
• It's located in the Najd region of Saudi Arabia, and it cuts through the city of Riyadh.
• The valley spans an impressive 120 km from Al-Haisiyah in the north to Al-Hayer in the south.
• In recent years, there has been a significant effort to restore and develop Wadi Hanifa as an environmental, recreational, and tourism resource.

FAQs

What is Wadi Hanifa?

Wadi Hanifa is a 120 km-long valley in Riyadh, known for its scenic views, historical sites, and eco-tourism hotspots.

What Activities Can You Do in Wadi Hanifa?

Visitors can walk, jog, cycle, birdwatch, take photos, have picnics, visit historical landmarks, and even go fishing or kayaking in certain spots.

Is Wadi Hanifa safe to visit at night?

Although the place is safe, daytime visitation is advisable for optimum experience, given that there may be poor lighting in some sections.

Where is Wadi Hanifa situated?

Wadi Hanifa, formerly known as Wadi al-Arad, is a wadi (intermittent stream) located in the Najd region of Riyadh Province, central Saudi Arabia.