How to get to Arar

Arar is the administrative center of the Northern Borders Region in Saudi Arabia, serving as a vital transit hub and gateway to the country's vast desert expanses. The city is not a crowded metropolis, allowing tourists to peacefully experience the local lifestyle and Bedouin traditions. You can reach here in various ways: by taking a direct flight, driving along high-quality highways, or combining a route through neighboring cities.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is to take a flight to the local Arar Airport (RAE). This air hub receives regular flights from the capital and other major cities of the Kingdom, ensuring a reliable connection with the rest of the world. The airport is located in close proximity to the city limits, making the transfer to your hotel quick and effortless.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighboring cities, such as Sakaka or Turaif. From there, the journey continues by land; however, it is worth noting that the distance between cities in this part of the country can be significant.

Currently, there is no railway station in the city of Arar itself, so getting here exclusively by train is not possible. The railway network of Saudi Arabia is actively developing, but it does not yet cover all northern routes directly to the regional center.

The nearest alternative for train enthusiasts could be a trip to neighboring major cities, such as Sakaka or Turaif, which are served by railway lines. From these stations to your destination, you will have to travel several hundred kilometers by taxi or rental car, enjoying views of the desert.

Bus service in Saudi Arabia is quite well developed, connecting the northern regions with the central part of the country via a network of long-distance routes. A bus trip to the city of Arar will be a budget-friendly travel option, allowing you to see the changing landscapes from the window of a modern air-conditioned coach.

Although exact schedules and routes are best checked on-site or on the websites of national carriers, buses usually follow major highways through large transport hubs. Travel time can be long due to vast distances, so it is recommended to choose overnight trips or routes with a minimum number of stops.

Traveling by car is one of the most popular ways to move around the region, giving you complete freedom of action. Closest to the destination is the city of Sakaka: the distance is about 167 km, which will take approximately 1.9 hours of driving on a smooth highway. Also, a convenient route runs from the city of Turaif, from where you need to drive 249 km to the target (about 2.7 hours on the road).

If you are driving from the direction of the city of Rafha, prepare for a journey 283 km long, which will require about 3.3 hours of time. Roads in this area are generally of excellent quality, but it is important to monitor your fuel level, as petrol stations may be found less frequently than in densely populated areas.

When planning a trip to Arar, it is worth considering the specifics of the region to ensure your journey is comfortable and free of surprises. This city, located in the north of the country, has its own climatic and cultural features.

1. Clothing and Dress Code. Choose modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees, made from light natural fabrics. Women are recommended to have a headscarf or abaya with them out of respect for local traditions, especially in public places.
2. Transport. Public transport within the city is poorly developed, so renting a car or using a taxi is the best way to get around. Ensure you have an international driving license.
3. Finance. The official currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Cards are accepted in major stores and hotels, but for markets and small shops, be sure to carry cash.
4. Climate and Health. The air here is very dry, and the sun is active even in winter. Always carry water with you, use sunscreen, and avoid prolonged exposure outdoors during the midday hours.
5. Connectivity and Language. The main language is Arabic. In the service sector, many speak English, but learning a couple of basic greeting phrases will be a sign of courtesy.
6. Rules of Conduct. Avoid public displays of affection and do not photograph local residents (especially women) and government buildings without permission.
7. Opening Hours. Remember that during prayer times, shops and restaurants may close for short breaks (20–30 minutes) several times a day.
8. Seasonality. The best time to visit is winter and early spring, when the desert around the city comes alive, and locals go out for picnics and falconry.

Observing these simple recommendations will help you show respect for the local culture and enjoy the hospitality of the people of the Northern Borders.