How to get to Al Wajh

When planning a trip along the Red Sea coast, many tourists seek information on how to get to Al Wajh — an ancient port city in the northwestern part of Saudi Arabia. This atmospheric spot, renowned for its unique Hijazi-style architecture, is accessible in various ways: you can arrive by plane or drive by car, enjoying the desert landscapes. Before travelling to Al Wajh, it is worth evaluating all transport options to choose the most convenient and scenic route.

The fastest way to reach the coast is by air. The city is served by its own airport, Al Wajh (EJH), which receives flights from national carriers. Thanks to this, the air harbour serves as a convenient gateway for travellers wishing to explore this region.

Regular air connections are established with major cities in Saudi Arabia, primarily Jeddah and Riyadh. For international tourists, the optimal option would be a flight to one of these international hubs followed by a short transfer to a domestic flight. The airport is located close to residential areas, allowing you to reach the centre by taxi in a matter of minutes.

There is currently no direct railway connection to the city of Al Wajh, as there is no train station in the city itself. The railway network linking key regions of Saudi Arabia does not yet cover this picturesque stretch of the Red Sea coast, so the train is not an option for arriving directly into the city.

Even nearby iconic locations, such as historic AlUla or the futuristic NEOM project, do not have a direct rail connection with Al Wajh. Travellers preferring ground transport are advised to consider car rental or bus services to comfortably cover the distance between these points.

Bus travel is an affordable and sufficiently comfortable option for a trip to Al Wajh. Main services are operated by the national company SAPTCO, linking the city with key points in the region. The most popular and regular routes arrive here from major cities such as Jeddah, Yanbu, and Tabuk. Buses are typically equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats, making the journey pleasant even in hot weather.

The route often runs along the scenic coastal highway beside the Red Sea, offering views of the seascape and desert landscapes. Travel time varies: a trip from Tabuk will take about 4 hours, while the journey from Jeddah may last 7–8 hours. It is recommended to purchase tickets for intercity trips in advance through the carrier's official channels.

It is worth separately mentioning the route from the famous oasis of AlUla. Direct bus service in this direction is often absent or runs irregularly. Therefore, for the trip from AlUla, tourists usually choose a rented car or taxi: covering the distance will take approximately 3–4 hours and allows you to comfortably enjoy views of the canyons along the way.

Travelling behind the wheel is one of the most scenic ways to get to the coast, as local roads are distinguished by high quality, and the scenery outside the window changes smoothly from desert dunes to the sea surface. The most popular route for road trippers runs from the historic oasis of AlUla: a distance of about 240 km can be comfortably covered in 2.5–3 hours, driving through mountain ranges towards the sea.

Another convenient option is a trip from the north, from the side of the futuristic NEOM region; the journey along the coastal highway will take about 3.5–4 hours (around 350 km). Car rental or taxi services are available in all major tourist hubs, however, for intercity transfers, it is recommended to agree on a fixed trip cost in advance.

A trip to Al Wajh promises to be an unforgettable adventure if you prepare for the local features of this ancient port city in advance. To ensure your holiday on the Red Sea coast passes as comfortably and hassle-free as possible, we have compiled several important recommendations relevant for every guest.

1. Clothing & Essentials: The climate in the region is hot and humid, so prefer loose items made of natural breathable fabrics, such as cotton or linen. Respecting the traditions of Saudi Arabia, choose modest clothing: shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women, especially when walking around the city.
2. Transport: Public transport in the city is not well-developed, so renting a car is strongly recommended for freedom of movement. Taxis are also available, but it is better to agree on the trip price in advance or ask the driver to turn on the meter to avoid misunderstandings.
3. Finance: The national currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Although cards are accepted in large hotels and modern shops, be sure to carry cash for visiting traditional markets and small cafes, as terminals may be unavailable there.
4. Health & Safety: Al Wajh is a calm city, but the sun here is very active. Always wear a hat, use sunscreen with high SPF, and drink plenty of bottled water. Pharmacies with basic medicines are easy to find in the central part of the city.
5. Communication: The official language is Arabic. Staff in tourist places may speak English, but difficulties may arise when communicating with local residents or taxi drivers. It is recommended to install a translator app on your smartphone that works in offline mode.
6. Local Etiquette: Saudis are very hospitable, and the polite greeting "As-salamu alaykum" will always be received warmly. Remember an important rule: accept treats, pass money or items exclusively with your right hand.
7. What to Avoid: Strictly refrain from photographing local residents (especially women) without their explicit permission, and do not photograph government and military buildings. Also, remember the total ban on alcohol in the country.
8. Extra Tip: Plan a walk through the historical Al-Balad district for the pre-sunset hours. It can be too hot during the day, while the soft evening light perfectly highlights the beauty of the ancient Roshan balconies and allows for magnificent photos.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid awkward situations and show respect for the local culture. May your acquaintance with the architectural heritage and seascapes be easy, safe, and leave only the warmest memories!