How to get to Dawadmi

When planning a journey across the Arabian Peninsula, many tourists wonder how to get to Dawadmi — a significant city in the Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia. This settlement serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the culture of Najd and ancient palaces, offering guests an authentic desert atmosphere. You can reach here either by a direct domestic flight or by taking an exciting drive from the capital.

The fastest way to reach the region is to use the city's local airport (DWD), which receives regular domestic flights. For international travellers, the optimal route is a flight to the capital, Riyadh (RUH), located 230 km away, followed by a transfer to a local flight or car rental.

You can also consider flying into the airport in Buraydah (ELQ), situated approximately 209 km from your destination. Although the airport in Hail (HAS) is located further away, at 428 km, it can be an alternative entry point for those travelling through the north of the country.

Direct railway connection to the city of Dawadmi is currently unavailable, as there is no passenger station here. However, travellers can utilize the country's modern railway network to reach stations in neighbouring major hubs.

The nearest stations are located in the cities of Buraydah (about 209 km) and Riyadh (230 km). This is a good option for those who wish to combine a high-speed train journey with a subsequent short road trip to the final destination.

Unfortunately, precise information regarding regular bus routes directly to the city of Dawadmi is not always updated in real-time in open sources. Nevertheless, intercity bus service within the Kingdom is well-developed, and trips from the capital often connect provincial centres.

We recommend verifying the current schedule and ticket availability directly at the ticket offices of bus stations in the nearest major cities, such as Riyadh. Travelling by bus is usually the most budget-friendly way to move around the country.

Travelling by car is one of the most comfortable options, allowing you to enjoy the desert landscapes. A trip from the capital, the city of Riyadh, will take about 3.5 hours, during which you will cover a distance of approximately 297 km along a good highway.

A convenient route also runs from the city of Buraydah: the distance of 272 km can be covered in 3.4 hours. If you are heading from the city of Hail, the journey will be longer — about 525 km, which will require almost 6 hours of driving.

To ensure your trip to this region is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth preparing for local specifics in advance. Here are some useful recommendations for tourists:

1. Clothing and Essentials: Choose modest clothing made from natural fabrics that covers your shoulders and knees, as the climate here is hot and traditions are conservative.
2. Transport: Public transport within the city is not widely developed, so for comfortable movement, it is best to rent a car.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Cards are accepted in hotels and supermarkets, but it is better to have cash for traditional markets.
4. Health and Safety: The city is safe, but due to the dry climate, always carry a supply of drinking water to avoid dehydration.
5. Communication: The primary language is Arabic. English is not understood everywhere, so it is useful to learn a few basic phrases or use a translator.
6. Local Etiquette: Avoid photographing local residents (especially women) without their explicit permission and maintain modesty in your behaviour.
7. What to Avoid: The consumption and import of alcohol and narcotics are strictly prohibited; violations carry severe penalties.
8. Additional Tip: Plan your sightseeing for the early morning or evening hours when the daytime heat subsides.

Following these simple rules will help you show respect for the country's culture and enjoy the hospitality of the local people.