How to get to Turayf

Located in the north of Saudi Arabia, near the Jordanian border, Turaif is an important transport hub and an intriguing spot on the map for lovers of unexplored routes. Before making your way to Turaif, it is worth considering all available options: from quick domestic flights to exciting road trips through desert landscapes. A well-planned route will make your journey to this distinctive city easy and comfortable.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach this northern region is by air. The city is served by its own Turaif Domestic Airport (TUI), which handles regular domestic flights.

Most often, travelers arrive here from the major hubs of Saudi Arabia — Riyadh or Jeddah. Flight time from the capital is usually about two hours. The airport is located very close to residential areas, so a taxi ride to the center of Turaif will take minimal time.

There is no direct railway connection to the city itself, so a train ride will be part of a combined route. The nearest passenger station to Turaif is in the city of Al Qurayyat, located approximately 130 kilometers away. Traveling through the desert on modern, comfortable trains can be a pleasant adventure in its own right.

Alternatively, you can consider the Al Jouf station (near the city of Sakaka), but bear in mind that it is significantly further away, and the transfer from there will take much longer. Upon arrival at the station in Al Qurayyat, you will need to rent a car or take a taxi to cover the remaining distance by road.

Bus services connect Turaif with key cities in the northern region, offering travelers the chance to enjoy the rugged yet picturesque desert landscapes. The shortest and most popular route runs from Al Qurayyat: the bus covers the 130-kilometer distance in about an hour and a half. There is also regular service from the administrative center of Arar, from where the journey takes about three hours to cover 240 kilometers.

For those planning a trip from more distant points, a route from Sakaka is available. This journey lasts about four hours, covering around 400 kilometers on the high-quality highways of Saudi Arabia. Modern intercity buses are usually equipped with air conditioning and comfortable seats, making a long trip through the hot climate quite comfortable.

Traveling by car across the north of the country is an opportunity to enjoy serene desert landscapes and the excellent quality of local roads. Closest to the destination is Al Qurayyat: a 130-kilometer drive along a straight highway takes just an hour and a half. A trip from the city of Arar takes a bit longer, about two and a half to three hours, separated from Turaif by approximately 240 kilometers of paved highway.

For those departing from the city of Sakaka, the road becomes a true four-hour adventure spanning about 400 kilometers. It is most convenient to get around in a rental car, but taxis also operate between cities, where it is customary to agree on the price in advance. The cost of such a long transfer will depend on the class of the car and your negotiation skills, but the comfort during a journey through the desert heat is definitely worth it.

A trip to Turaif will give you a unique experience of discovering the northern part of the Kingdom, but for a comfortable trip, several important nuances should be considered. We have prepared a list of practical recommendations to help you feel confident and avoid awkward situations.

1. Clothing and Climate. Unlike many other regions of Saudi Arabia, winters here can be truly cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping to freezing. If you are traveling in winter, be sure to bring a warm jacket. Summers are hot and dry, so opt for light natural fabrics that cover your shoulders and knees to observe local standards of modesty and protect yourself from the sun.
2. Transport Issues. Public transport within the city is not well developed, so renting a car is the optimal solution. This will give you the freedom to move around both the city and the picturesque surroundings. Taxis are also available, but it is better to book them via specialized apps, as flagging down a car on the street can be problematic.
3. Finances and Payment. The national currency is the Saudi Riyal. Major supermarkets and hotels accept bank cards without issues, but it is always worth having cash on hand for visiting small shops, traditional markets, or paying for taxis. ATMs are easy to find in the city.
4. Health and Safety. Turaif is a calm and safe city. Medical assistance is available at local clinics, and pharmacies are well-stocked. The main health recommendation is to drink plenty of water and use sunscreen even in cloudy weather, as the desert sun is very active.
5. Language Barrier. The main language of communication is Arabic. In hotels and at the airport, staff usually speak English, but the level of foreign language proficiency in the city may be lower. We recommend installing a translation app on your smartphone and learning a few basic phrases of greeting and gratitude — locals will greatly appreciate it.
6. Local Etiquette. Saudis are hospitable but conservative. It is customary to greet people with the words "As-salamu alaykum". When interacting with locals of the opposite gender, maintain a respectful distance. Accept treats or pass items using only your right hand.
7. What to Avoid. It is strictly not recommended to photograph local residents (especially women) without their explicit permission, or to photograph government and military facilities. Also, remember the strict ban on alcohol and public displays of affection between partners.
8. Useful Tip. Since the city is located away from the light pollution of megacities, be sure to set aside an evening for a trip outside the city limits. The desert around Turaif offers a stunning view of the starry sky, which will be one of the most vivid impressions of your trip.

Following these simple rules will make your stay in Turaif not only safe but also maximally enjoyable. Respect for local traditions will open the doors to the sincere hospitality of the residents of this northern city.