How to get to Hail

Hail is a picturesque oasis and the historic heart of northern Saudi Arabia, nestled at the foot of the majestic Shammar mountain range. Renowned for its legendary hospitality, this city attracts travellers eager to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the Arabian Peninsula. You can reach Hail in various ways: by using the modern airport, the railway service, or by taking a road trip along the desert highways.

The fastest way to reach the region is to fly into Hail Airport (HAS), which receives regular flights from major cities across the Kingdom. The airport is located within the city limits, ensuring a convenient and quick arrival at your destination.

If direct tickets are unavailable, consider flying to neighbouring cities such as Buraydah or Rafha. However, bear in mind that they are located 250–300 kilometres away, so the remainder of the journey will need to be covered by ground transport.

The city of Hail is conveniently integrated into the country's railway network thanks to the North-South line (SAR). Modern trains connect the oasis with the capital, Riyadh, and the northern regions, offering passengers a high level of comfort and scenic views of the desert passing by.

The railway station is located not far from the city centre, making train travel an excellent alternative to flying. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance, as this mode of transport is becoming increasingly popular among tourists and residents alike.

Bus services connect Hail with most major cities in the Kingdom, offering a budget-friendly way to travel. State and private carriers operate regular trips on comfortable coaches equipped with air conditioning, which is particularly important in the hot climate.

Although the journey may take a considerable amount of time due to the vast distances, modern roads make the trip quite smooth. It is best to check bus schedules and ticket availability at bus stations or on the carriers' websites shortly before your planned departure date.

Travelling by car allows you to plan your route independently and enjoy the desert landscapes. A drive from the city of Buraydah will take less than three hours, as the distance is approximately 280 kilometres along a high-quality highway.

If you are driving from the north, the journey from the city of Rafha (about 365 km) or Sakaka (nearly 400 km) will require around 4 hours behind the wheel. The roads in Saudi Arabia are wide and straight, and navigation usually presents no difficulties even for tourists.

To ensure your trip to Hail is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant memories, it is worth considering local cultural and climatic nuances. Here are a few practical recommendations:

1. Dress code. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Women are recommended to wear loose-fitting clothing, while men should avoid wearing shorts in public places as a mark of respect for traditions.
2. Transport. Public transport within the city is not widely developed, so it is most convenient to use taxi apps (Uber, Careem) or rent a car for getting around.
3. Prayer times. Keep in mind that shops, restaurants, and petrol stations close for 20–30 minutes five times a day during prayer times.
4. Climate. The desert climate implies sharp temperature fluctuations: even if it is hot during the day, nights can be cool, so bring a light jacket or sweater with you.
5. Money. Cards are accepted in large malls and hotels, but be sure to carry cash for visiting traditional markets (souqs) and small cafes.
6. Photography. Always ask for permission before photographing local residents. Taking photos of government buildings and military facilities is strictly prohibited.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid awkward situations and allow you to fully enjoy the famous Arabian hospitality.