How to get to Tabuk

Located in the northwest of Saudi Arabia, the city of Tabuk serves as an important gateway to historical treasures and the Red Sea coast. When planning how to get to Tabuk, travelers will discover that this region, despite its desert surroundings, boasts developed transport accessibility. You can get here in various ways: from a direct flight to a scenic journey by car across the majestic sands.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the region is to take a flight to Tabuk Airport (TUU), which receives both domestic and international flights. The airport is located close to the city, ensuring a convenient transfer to the center immediately after landing.

Alternatively, one can consider flying to neighboring cities, for example, to the futuristic Neom or Jordanian Aqaba. The distance from these airports is less than 200 kilometers, allowing for easy access to the destination via ground transport.

Currently, there is no direct railway connection to the city of Tabuk, as there is no active passenger station here. Historically, the famous Hejaz Railway passed through the region, but nowadays it is more of a tourist attraction than a transport artery.

Tourists preferring ground transport are recommended to combine routes: fly to the country's major transport hubs, and cover the remaining part of the journey by bus or car. Nearby cities, such as Neom or Aqaba, also do not have a direct railway connection with Tabuk.

Bus service is a popular and budget-friendly way to get to Tabuk from other regions of the Kingdom. Comfortable intercity liners regularly operate on major highways, connecting the city with major centers such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Madinah.

Although exact schedules and travel times may vary, modern buses are usually equipped with air conditioning, making long trips through the desert quite tolerable. It is recommended to check current routes and purchase tickets in advance on the websites of national carriers.

Traveling by car opens up breathtaking views of desert landscapes to tourists. The shortest route leads from the city of Neom: the distance is about 153 km, which will take approximately 1.6 hours of driving on a high-quality highway.

For those driving from the border, the route from Jordanian Aqaba is convenient, located 262 km away (about 3.2 hours on the road). It is also possible to get there from the Egyptian city of Taba, covering 287 km in about 4.5 hours, however, time for border formalities should be taken into account.

Before traveling to this historical region, it is important to consider local cultural nuances and climatic conditions to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible.

1. Clothing and Dress Code: Choose modest, covered clothing made from natural fabrics. Women are recommended to wear an abaya or loose clothing covering arms and legs; men should avoid shorts in public places.
2. Transport: Public transport is not well-developed, so car rental is the best way to move freely around the city and its surroundings.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Cards are accepted in major stores and hotels, but be sure to carry cash for markets and small shops.
4. Health and Climate: The air here is very dry, so drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Sunscreen and headgear are mandatory even in winter.
5. Prayer Times: Keep in mind that during prayer times (5 times a day), many shops and establishments may close for 20–30 minutes.
6. Photography: Always ask for permission before photographing local residents. Photography of government institutions and military facilities is strictly prohibited.
7. Alcohol: The import and consumption of alcohol in the country are strictly prohibited by law; violating this rule entails serious consequences.
8. Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip for the period from November to March, when the daytime temperature is comfortable for walks and excursions.

Observing these simple rules will help you show respect for local traditions and enjoy the hospitality of Tabuk without unnecessary worries.