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How to Get to Hail

How to Get to Hail

Hail Hail Region, Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Hail International Airport (HAS) serves as the main airport. It handles both domestic and a limited number of international flights. Major Saudi airlines like Saudia, Flynas, and flyadeal operate frequent domestic flights.

Connections

  • Domestic flights connect Hail to important Saudi cities like Riyadh (RUH), Jeddah (JED), and Dammam (DMM).
  • Limited direct international flights, mostly to regional centers such as Cairo (CAI) or Dubai (DXB).
  • Most international travelers connect through larger Saudi airports for onward flights to Hail.

Flight Availability & Airport Services

Flight availability to Hail generally remains consistent throughout the year. However, prices increase during peak travel seasons, including the cooler winter months (November-March) and during Saudi national holidays or major local happenings such as the Hail Rally.

Airport Facilities

  • Booking reserving flights ahead of time is recommended, notably if your travel dates fall within busy periods.
  • Hail International Airport is a smaller facility offering basic, but adequate, services.
  • You come across a few cafes, car hire counters for convenient pick-up, and ATMs for currency needs.

Airport Taxis

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. Agree on a fare or ensure the meter is used.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Careem operate in Hail, offering transparent pricing and cashless payment.

Hotel Shuttles

Some hotels in Hail offer pre-arranged airport transfers for their guests.

Flight Resources

Flight Search

  • Dollar Flight Club for deal alerts.
  • Skyscanner for comparing flight prices.
  • Look at seasonal flight availability and price fluctuations.
  • Booking booking flights early is recommended.

Connecting Flights

  • International travelers often connect through Riyadh or Jeddah.
  • Other regional hubs for connections include Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul.
  • No direct flights from major global hubs outside the Middle From the east to Hail.
  • Review transfer options from Hail International Airport to your accommodation.

Airport Transfers

Taxis

Taxis are available outside the terminal. Agree on a fare or ensure the meter is used.

Ride-sharing

Uber and Careem operate in Hail, offering transparent pricing and electronic payment for airport transfers.

Hotel Shuttles

Check with your hotel if they offer pre-arranged airport transfers for guests.

Land Transportation

Train Services

Hail serves as a station on Saudi Arabia's modern North-South Railway line, operated by the Saudi Railways Company (SAR). This railway connects Hail with Riyadh, the capital, to the east.

Routes & Features

  • The railway also extends northwards to Al-Jawf and Qurayyat.
  • The SAR network features modern, comfortable trains offering various classes.
  • Train travel provides a scenic and relaxed way to traverse parts of the Kingdom.

Long-Distance Bus Options

The Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) operates an extensive bus network across Saudi Arabia. Hail connects to most major cities via SAPTCO services.

Network & Comfort

  • Hail connects to Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Medina via SAPTCO.
  • SAPTCO generally offers multiple daily departures to destinations.
  • Buses are typically air-conditioned and offer a comfortable travel experience for long-distance journeys.

Self-Driving Requirements

To rent and drive a car in Saudi Arabia, an International Driving Permit (IDP) presented alongside your valid home country driving license is for you. The minimum age for car rental typically ranges from 21 to 23 years.

Roads & Safety

  • Roads in and around Hail are generally well-maintained and of high quality.
  • Drive defensively. Adhere to the official speed limits. Seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Desert roads may be unpaved and require a 4x4 vehicle.

Road Conditions & Hazards

Main roads across The Kingdom of saudi arabia and within the Hail region are excellent, facilitating smooth travel. If you plan off-road driving, specifically in desert areas, experience with such terrain and appropriate vehicles (4x4) are important.

Driving Cautions

  • Be aware of camels and other livestock that may wander onto desert roads.
  • Speeding by other drivers is a common issue on some highways; remain vigilant.
  • Penalties for traffic violations are strict.

Border Crossing Information

  • Border crossing information is not directly for reaching Hail itself, as it is an inland city.
  • Saudi Arabia shares land borders with Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Oman, and Yemen.
  • Land crossings into Saudi Arabia demand specific visas and adherence to particular procedures.
  • Procedures vary by nationality and the border post.
  • Sea/river arrivals section is not applicable to Hail, an inland city.
  • Hail does not have sea or river ports.

Departure Information

Exit Procedures & Timing

No particular exit fees or taxes are typically on departing air passengers from Saudi Arabia beyond what is included in your airline ticket price.

Airport Departures

  • For international flights from Hail International Airport, arrive at least 2-3 hours before departure.
  • For domestic flights, arriving 1-2 hours before departure is usually sufficient.
  • This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, and any immigration procedures.

Station Departures & Facilities

For train or bus departures, arrive at the station at least 30-60 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This allows for ticketing, baggage, and figuring out your platform or gate.

Station Amenities

  • Hail International Airport provides basic check-in counters, security checkpoints, and waiting areas.
  • Train and bus stations offer ticketing services, comfortable waiting lounges, and basic amenities.
  • Restrooms and little cafes are available at stations.

Check-in Efficiency

Allow ample time for check-in and security screening for smooth departure.

Punctual Arrival

Arrive at stations 30-60 minutes early for ticketing and platform access.

Station Amenities

Enjoy comfortable waiting lounges and basic amenities at transport hubs.

Car Rental Resources

Booking Your Rental

Renting a car offers the greatest freedom to explore Hail and its surroundings. You can book online in advance or directly at rental offices located either at the airport or in the city.

Essential Documents

  • Valid passport and home country’s driving license.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required.
  • A major credit card is for deposit and payment.

Rental Companies & Age

International car rental chains like Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise have branches in Hail. Local Saudi companies also offer rental services.

Age Requirements

  • The minimum age for car rental typically ranges from 21 to 23 years.
  • This varies depending on the rental company and vehicle type.
  • Confirm age requirements directly with the the rental agency.

Online Rental Platforms

DiscoverCars.com

Compares prices from various rental companies worldwide. Find competitive rates for your trip.

Rentalcars.com

Offers a wide selection of vehicles from major and local providers. Convenient booking process.

EconomyBookings

Find affordable car rental deals. User-friendly interface to compare options.

Border Crossing Note

Border crossing information is not directly for reaching Hail itself, as it is an inland city within Saudi Arabia.