Saudi’s diverse terrain makes it ideal for exhilarating outdoor sports and adventure: a vast desert with sand dunes and towering rock formations, green mountains to the north, and seas on both coasts.

Omar Faisal Abdulaziz Alhegelan, head of the Saudi Arabian Extreme Sports Federation and a world-champion skydiver, is no stranger to outdoor adventures. At a recent exhibition, he said, “In Saudi, we have huge opportunities for adventure tourism, starting from the seas and majestic mountains.” The federation, founded in 2020, is working to expand access to extreme sports for locals and tourists.

Whether you are seeking an adrenaline rush or an exciting challenge, Saudi has options for adventurers of all levels.

Dune Bashing

 

Saudi’s desert is marked with sand dunes, and you can drive on their shifting sands with the right setup. Known as dune bashing, this off-roading activity combines mud and hill driving. Hire an experienced driver with a four-wheel-drive vehicle or join a tour group for an adventure that you won’t soon forget. Pack a picnic lunch for a relaxing break. Visit Moon Mountain, an area northeast of Jeddah named for its lunar appearance, or the King Khalid Royal Reserve north of Riyadh, which has diverse wildlife and plant life around its golden dunes. 

Tour operator Bandar Al Yasser says companies are equipped and trained for these adventures and can customize the experience based on your wishes. “Some tourists request dinner or want to camp overnight, so we meet those needs,” he says.

Water Sports

 

The Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf make Saudi a great option for adventures in the water. Jeddah is an ideal base for such activities in the Red Sea. Explore spectacular coral reefs while snorkeling, find underwater caves, swim with sharks, go full speed in a boat at sea, or cruise around the marina on a jet ski or flyboard. On Saudi’s east coast, visit Dana Beach Resort in the Eastern Province, where you can glide above Half Moon Bay on a parasail or swim among the fish with a certified diving instructor.

Mountaineering

 

Saudi is characterized by mountains throughout the country, a great opportunity for those who want to climb, hike, or bike. Jabal Halaliyat, a mountain in the eastern part of the country, is a great destination for exploring canyons and rock domes. North of AlUla, climb the towering sedimentary rock formations that dot the desert. In the southwest, Al Hada Mountain sits between Taif and Makkah. At more than 2,000 meters above sea level, its cooler temperatures make it perfect for hiking year-round. In the Tabuk region, Wadi Al Disah is an oasis for hikers, with iron-rich red rock formations, natural springs, and ancient ruins.

Horseback Riding

 

Horses have a long history in the region — Arabian horses date back at least 3,500 years — and horseback riding is an important sport in Saudi. You can ride along sandy beaches or warm deserts and enjoy the country’s beautiful landscapes. Caballo Equestrian Club in Riyadh trains riders on several species of Arabian horses.

Skydiving and Paragliding

 

If you want to experience an adrenaline rush, skydiving is sure to give you a thrill. Jump from planes and mountain slopes in areas such as Taif, Riyadh, and Jeddah. Paragliding is another great way to sail over Saudi’s mountains and valleys. Many centers provide excursions and training courses for those wanting to learn these sports.

Adventure Tour Companies

 

Whether you’re up for a drive in the dunes or want to take the plunge with a diving instructor, these companies can help you make the most of your adventure.

Yalla Hike: Specialized tour guides organize 4x4 safaris, cycling tours, dune bashing, and more. Contact them at info@yallahike.sa or 966555459284.

Ajwaad Group: This tour company offers hiking day trips for all ages, including children as young as 6. The hikes last five to seven hours, including breaks for activities and meals. Contact them at info@ajwaad.tours or 966549939939.

Ghazi Tours: Book dune bashing, off-road safaris, and hiking trips with this tour company. Outings include meals, transportation, and entertainment. Contact them at 00966530745553.