Last Updated on November 23, 2023

With its golden dunes and vast sand sea, Riyadh’s desert in Saudi Arabia is one of the most beautiful sandboarding destinations in the world, and one of those things that must be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

There are many options for desert tours from the capital which often include a combination of dune bashing and sandboarding.

Red Sand Dunes near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Red Sand Dunes near Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Riyadh Sand Dunes

The best time to go sand surfing in Riyadh is during winter, from October until March. For a full Arabian experience, you can enjoy sleeping under the stars on a desert camp, wake up to the smell and taste of a nice cup of traditional coffee, and then hit the dunes with your sandboard, off-road vehicle, or riding a camel.

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Video: Saudi Sands Sandboarding


Al-Ula Sand Dunes

Al-‘Ula, is a city of the Medina Region in north-western Saudi Arabia, is also a great destination for sand surfing. Suitable dunes are located about a one hour drive away from the city, and the experience is best combined with dune bashing and a visit to nearby Bedouin campsites.

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Al-Ahsa Oasis Sand Dunes

The eastern province of Saudi Arabia is particularly suitable for desert safari trips and sandboarding can be practiced on the dunes. The area surrounding Al-Asfar Lake is especially popular, but the whole region has a lot to offer. You can arrange a safari from the closest city of Al-Hofuf.

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Sandboarding in the Middle East

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