MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Riyadh

How to Get to Riyadh

Riyadh Riyadh Region, Saudi Arabia Travel Guide

Airport & Airlines

Main Airport

King Khalid International Airport (RUH) is Riyadh’s main international gateway.

RUH Overview

  • Location: About 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of downtown.
  • Hub: A key center for international and domestic flights.
  • Facilities: Modern terminals with extensive amenities.

Airlines & Routes

Several airlines connect Riyadh to various global destinations.

Carriers

  • Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines): The national carrier, with an extensive network.
  • Flynas: A low-cost Saudi airline for regional and a few international flights.
  • Major International Carriers: Emirates, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Lufthansa, etc., connect globally.

Seasonal Prices

Prices rise during cooler winter months and holidays. Lower prices in hot summer months. Travel in the shoulder season offers better value.

Airport Facilities

RUH features duty-free, diverse dining, car rentals, ATMs, currency exchange, prayer rooms, and free Wi-Fi.

Direct Flights

Increased direct flight availability from major global hubs like London, Paris, Dubai, and increasingly, US cities.

Airport Transfers

Options from RUH

  • Taxis: Readily available outside terminals. Fares to city center typically SAR 70-100. Confirm fare or meter use.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Careem are widely used, offering transparent pricing and cashless payment. Find drivers at designated pick-up areas.
  • Hotel Shuttles: Many hotels offer pre-booked airport transfer services. Check with your accommodation.
  • Car Rental: Major companies at the airport. Renting a car provides flexibility, especially for day trips. Consider DiscoverCars.com.

Public Transport from Airport

  • Public Bus: Limited connections from RUH to certain metropolitan areas. It is a budget-friendly option.
  • Not always the most convenient for tourists with baggage, as routes may not directly serve popular hotel areas.
  • Skyscanner or Dollar Flight Club: For flight deals, check Skyscanner or Dollar Flight Club.
  • Choosing your shuttle: Select based on your budget, convenience, and destination within Riyadh.

Flight Planning Essentials

Book in Advance

Especially during peak season (winter) and major holidays, early booking secures better rates.

Check All Carriers

Compare prices across Saudia, Flynas, and major foreign carriers for the best deals.

Off-Peak Savings

Travel during summer for potential cost savings if you tolerate intense heat and plan indoor activities.

Land Transportation

Train Services

Saudi Arabia has a developing rail network for intercity travel.

Saudi Railways SAR

  • Passenger train services link Riyadh to the Eastern Province (Dammam, Hofuf).
  • Northern line connects Riyadh to Majma'ah, Qassim, Hail, and Al-Jawf.
  • Riyadh train station is in the Al-Malaz district.

Long-Distance Buses

Intercity buses present an affordable an alternative to domestic travel.

SAPTCO Network

  • Saudi Public Transport Company (SAPTCO) has an extensive network.
  • Travel from Riyadh to most major cities across Saudi Arabia and some neighboring countries.
  • Buses are comfy, air-conditioned, and cost-effective.

Self-Driving

Renting a car offers freedom to explore at your own pace.

Considerations for Drivers

  • Requirements: International Driving Permit (IDP) with national license, age 21/23+, credit card.
  • Road Conditions: Generally well-maintained multi-lane highways plus metropolitan system of roadss.
  • Safety: Driving can be difficult because of aggressive styles. Defensive driving is highly advised. Speed cameras are widespread.

Border Crossings

Saudi Arabia shares land borders with Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Oman, and Yemen.

Information

  • Land crossings mainly serve residents and GCC citizens.
  • Tourist eVisa holders can generally use land borders.
  • Air travel is often more common and direct for international tourists. Verify specific requirements for land entry.

Driving & Parking Notes

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Everyone must wear a seatbelt.
  • Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited.
  • Speed limits are strictly enforced by cameras.
  • Parking is ample at malls, hotels, and attractions. Street parking can be challenging in older areas.
  • Fuel stations are numerous; prices are relatively inexpensive.

Sea/River Arrivals

Inland City

Riyadh is an inland city, so it is not have direct sea or river access.

No Direct Water Access

  • Sea or river arrivals are not a direct way to reach Riyadh.
  • No significant waterways or mountainous ground for boat taxis or cable cars.
  • The nearest major seaport is Dammam, on the Arabian Gulf, about a 4-hour drive or train ride.

Other Transport

Visitors typically arrive by air or land.

Main Arrival Methods

  • Air travel via King Khalid International Airport (RUH) is the most common.
  • Land travel by bus or automobile from neighboring countries is also possible.
  • Plan your journey based on air or land options.

No River Access

Riyadh is not on a major river, so river transport is not relevant.

No Cable Cars

The city's flat terrain means no need for cable cars or funiculars.

Focus on Air/Land

All travel plans to Riyadh should consider air or road as main transport modes.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure from Riyadh by understanding the procedures and timing recommendations.

Steps

  • Airport Check-in: Arrive at RUH at least 3 hours before international flights. Allow extra time during peak seasons.
  • Security: Standard airport security applies. Electronics and liquids from carry-on bags.
  • Customs: Goods may be subject to inspection. Do not carry prohibited items.

Airport Facilities

RUH has various facilities for departing passengers.

Amenities for Travelers

  • Exit Fees: Generally, no specific exit fees are collected directly from passengers. Such fees are typically part of your airfare.
  • VAT Refund: Saudi Arabia does not currently operate a VAT refund scheme for tourists.
  • RUH Facilities: Lounges, dining options, retail stores (duty-free), and prayer rooms are available.

Preparation for Departure

Early Arrival

Arrive well in advance for check-in, baggage, and security, especially during peak travel times.

Document Readiness

Have all travel documents, including passport and boarding pass, ready for inspection.

Check Flight Status

Confirm your flight status and terminal information before heading to the airport.

Smooth Exit

Efficient departure strategies contribute to a stress-free end to your Riyadh visit.

← Previous
What to Pack for Riyadh
← Back to Riyadh
Next →
Getting Around Riyadh

Next Up: Getting Around Riyadh. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Continue to Getting Around Riyadh