Rafha Airport

Rafha Airport (IATA: RAH, ICAO: OERF) serves as an important air gateway to the city of the same name, located in the Northern Borders Province of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1978, this airport plays a key role in the region's transport system, ensuring reliable connections with the country's major business and cultural centres. Its strategic location between the cities of Arar and Hafar al-Batin makes it a convenient transport hub for both locals and visitors to the region. Despite its modest size, the airport serves as a starting point for travel across the entire country.

The main advantage of Rafha Airport is its convenient location — just a couple of kilometres from the city centre, making it easily accessible for travellers. As an airport for domestic flights, it specialises in connecting the province with the largest cities of Saudi Arabia, such as Riyadh and Jeddah, via the national carrier, Saudia. This allows passengers to quickly and comfortably reach major international hubs for further travel. The airport offers basic services necessary for a comfortable wait and is an indispensable part of the transport infrastructure of the country's northern region.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Rafha Airport. Please note that for questions related to booking, flight changes, and baggage, you should contact your airline directly.

• Official Website: Rafha Airport does not have its own official website. All necessary flight information (status, schedule) is available on the websites of the airlines operating flights to this airport.
• Information Desk Phone: +966 14 676 0233. We recommend verifying the number before calling, as it may change.
• Address: Rafha Domestic Airport, Rafha, Northern Borders Province, Saudi Arabia. The airport is located in the Al Hudud ash Shamaliyah Province in Saudi Arabia.
• Email: There is no public email address for passenger enquiries. The primary channel of communication is the telephone.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must immediately contact your airline's Lost and Found service at the arrival airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information, you can use the information desk phone number. For all questions regarding your flight, please contact your airline's support service.

Rafha Airport (RAH) is located in close proximity to the city, making transfers quick and simple. On average, the trip from the centre of Rafha to the terminal takes about 15-20 minutes by car, depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Taxi and Private Transfer

The most convenient and common way to get to the airport is by taxi. Local taxi services operate in the city, as do popular ride-hailing apps in Saudi Arabia (such as Uber or Careem). The cost of the trip is generally low, but it is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance or ensure the meter is turned on. For maximum convenience, especially when travelling with a lot of luggage or family, you can book a private transfer. This service is often provided by hotels or specialised transport companies.

Car Rental

If you value freedom of movement, car rental is an excellent solution. You can pick up a car at one of the rental locations in the city and drive comfortably to the airport, then leave it in the parking lot. This option is also convenient for those planning to explore the region. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to choose a suitable model at the best price.

Public Transport

It is worth noting that Rafha has practically no public transport system in the conventional sense. Specialised buses, shuttles, or trains do not run to the airport, so tourists should rely on taxis or rented transport.

Airport Parking

For travellers arriving by personal or rented car, parking is provided on the airport grounds. Usually, there are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. This is a convenient option if you need to meet or see off passengers, or leave your car during your absence. It is best to check current parking rates on-site.

Rafha Airport (RAH) is a small and modern regional airport serving domestic flights within Saudi Arabia. Its key feature is a compact and simple structure consisting of a single passenger terminal. This makes it extremely easy to navigate and saves travellers from having to move between different buildings.

This single terminal consolidates all zones necessary for passenger service. Departure and arrival areas are under one roof, making movement through the airport intuitive and fast. The terminal is designed with a focus on functionality and efficiency to ensure comfortable service for the small flow of passengers.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general hall where the check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and dropping off luggage, passengers pass through the security checkpoint and enter a small waiting lounge, from where boarding takes place. The arrival zone is also straightforward: it consists of a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city, where taxis and parking await passengers.

Since the airport operates only one terminal, the issue of transfers between them is irrelevant — everything is within a few minutes' walk. The infrastructure includes basic amenities: a waiting lounge, a small cafe or snack kiosk, restrooms, and prayer rooms. Do not expect large Duty Free shops or a variety of restaurants here, which are typical of large international hubs.

Check-in and security procedures at Rafha Airport typically go very quickly thanks to the low passenger volume. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing. This time is more than enough to check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass through security.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the standard signs in Arabic and English. Due to the building's compact size, getting lost here is practically impossible. Airport staff are always ready to help and provide directions. Overall, Rafha Airport offers a calm and predictable environment, ideal for starting or ending a journey through the country's northern region.

The history of Rafha Airport (RAH) is closely linked to the economic development of Saudi Arabia in the 20th century. Unlike many other airports, it was not founded as a civil aviation facility, but as a service airfield. It was created by Saudi Aramco to support the construction and maintenance of the Trans-Arabian Pipeline (Tapline), which was one of the largest infrastructure projects of its time. Initially, it was a simple airstrip for the company's needs.

A key moment in the airport's history was 1978, when it was officially opened for civil flights and transferred to the management of the General Authority of Civil Aviation of Saudi Arabia (GACA). This step turned the private airfield into an important transport hub for the entire Northern Borders region. For the residents of Rafha and the surrounding areas, this meant significantly easier travel to other cities in the country, such as Riyadh and Jeddah.

Since opening to the public, the airport has undergone several stages of modernisation. Within the framework of national programmes for the development of regional aviation, works were carried out to update the terminal, improve the runway, and upgrade navigation equipment. These reconstructions were aimed at increasing flight safety levels and passenger comfort to meet modern air travel standards.

Although Rafha Airport cannot boast records for passenger traffic or size, its main achievement is stable and reliable air connectivity for a remote region. For decades, it has played a key role in the life of the local community, supporting business ties, family bonds, and contributing to the development of the local economy. Its history is a vivid example of how industrial infrastructure can successfully transform to serve society.

Rafha Airport (RAH) is a modern regional airport offering passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-organised and equipped to meet the basic needs of travellers.

You can have a snack before departure at small cafes and eateries serving light meals, sandwiches, pastries, and drinks. The airport also has several shops where you can purchase essentials, press, and souvenirs to remember your trip.

For comfortable waiting before boarding, general lounges with sufficient seating are provided. Passengers can stay connected thanks to free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal, as well as use charging stations for electronic devices. For those who prefer privacy and enhanced comfort, a VIP lounge is available.

ATMs are installed on the airport premises for withdrawing cash. In case of need, passengers can visit the medical point for first aid.

Rafha Airport is equipped to serve passengers with special needs: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Families with small children can use the mother and baby room to care for infants in a quiet environment.

Although there are no hotels directly in the airport building, travellers can easily find accommodation options in the nearby city of Rafha. There are no specialised conference rooms in the airport, however, urgent work matters can be handled using Wi-Fi in the general area or the amenities of the VIP lounge.

Since Rafha Airport (RAH) is a small regional airport serving primarily domestic flights, dining options here are limited but quite sufficient to meet the basic needs of travellers. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants and cafes as in major international hubs, however, it is possible to have a snack and drink coffee before departure.

The main food offering at the airport is typically concentrated in one small cafe or kiosk located in the main public area of the terminal (landside), before passing security control. The assortment usually includes:

• Hot drinks: Coffee (including traditional Arabic coffee), tea.
• Cold drinks: Bottled water, juices, carbonated drinks.
• Pastries and desserts: Croissants, cakes, biscuits.
• Ready-made snacks: Packaged sandwiches, crisps, chocolate, and dates.

For passengers looking for a quick snack, coffee with pastries or a sandwich is ideal. If you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, the best solution would be to eat at one of the establishments in the city of Rafha before arriving at the airport. There are no restaurants offering hot à la carte meals within the airport itself.

Regarding special dietary needs, it is important to know that all food offered at the airport is Halal. Vegetarians may find cheese or vegetable sandwiches, but the selection will be small. Options for vegans or passengers on a gluten-free diet are practically non-existent, so if you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you. The cafe's opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule — it opens before departures and closes after the last planes have left.

To ensure your journey through Rafha Airport goes smoothly, make use of these practical tips. Rafha Airport (RAH) serves mainly domestic flights within Saudi Arabia, so procedures here generally go faster than in major international hubs, but preparation is never amiss.

Arrival at the airport and check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before the departure of your domestic flight. This time is enough to drop off luggage, check in, and pass security without rushing. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website if this option is available. This allows you to go straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Passing security and hand luggage rules. At the security checkpoint, be ready to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage. Liquids (gels, aerosols) can be carried in containers not exceeding 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage. Power banks are usually allowed only in hand luggage, not in checked baggage.

Customs control and transfers. Since Rafha Airport serves domestic flights, there is no customs control when departing or arriving from other cities in the country. If you have a connecting flight at another Saudi airport, study its map in advance to quickly find the right gate. Bear in mind that you may need to pass through security screening again.

Seat selection and saving money. When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to get up freely without disturbing neighbours. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you — it can be filled at drinking fountains after security. Prices for food and drinks at airports are often inflated, so bringing a light snack with you is also a good idea.

In case of flight delay. If your flight is delayed, the first thing to do is contact an airline representative for information about the new departure time and possible compensation (for example, vouchers for food or drinks). Keep a phone charger handy and something to help pass the time — a book, a film, or music.