The entry point to this serene desert is through the quiet town of Ajaj, approximately 115km from Riyadh. There’s a small supermarket on the roadside where you can pick up supplies for the evening before heading into the lower section of dunes marked on the map.

DUNE DRIVING

Dotted with bushy Sodom apple trees, this beginner-friendly area has enough atmosphere for novice sand drivers to feel more than satisfied with their dune driving experience. For those in search of something more challenging, scaling the first steep incline will reveal a sea of immense dunes that rise and fall in gentle folds, offering great views of the Tuwayq escarpment from each peak.

Depending on your sand driving skills, you might not even need to deflate your tyres. However, it’s always best to stay within your limits. See the ‘Driving’ section for more advice on desert driving.

SPECIAL FORCES OF ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY

High-powered rifles, night vision technology and 4WD vehicles have made illegal hunting and poaching more prevalent in Saudi Arabia, but efforts to protect the Kingdom’s threatened specie are being intensified, such as a permanent ban on the hunting of migratory birds. Some hunting is still permissible, though only in certain areas and seasons, and subject to strict controls. There are severe penalties for those who target protected species, hunt without a license or hunt anywhere near nature reserves. Penalties for poaching are equally severe, with fines of up to SAR 50,000 (approximately USD 13,300) or imprisonment.

  Wadi al Jufayr

The dunes in Ajaj connect to Wadi al Jufayr, a tributary of Wadi Nisah, where bird lovers can observe a number of interesting species among sandy patches and the flat stony wadi plateau. Look out for different kinds of warblers, as well as griffon vultures. Steppe eagles also soar in the skies above. These large, powerful birds of prey are a globally threatened species, but huge populations have been recorded recently in central Saudi Arabia during the winter months. It’s possible to explore much of this wadi – just be mindful there’s a military site in the area and don’t take photographs anywhere near its perimeter.

  Ajaj Farms & Dunes

On one side of this drive, you’ll find numerous agricultural farms growing date palms and various citrus fruits. With a bit of luck, you may even be able to purchase some local produce from farmers. On the other side, the beautiful dunes of Ajaj provide excellent off-roading conditions for drivers of any level. Just be aware of the nearby military zone and maintain distance from this area.

DRIVING DIRECTION

This route offers a mixture of classic dune driving with some wide open wadi tracks situated near the agricultural area of Ajaj.

  1     Turn right at the small township and head into the sandy dunes.

  2     Stay in the lower sandy portions, head up the dune slopes or continue straight on the paved road.

  3     Take a left before the military area to explore the dunes.

  4     Continue exploring the dunes or follow the wadi below (Wadi al Jufayr).

  5      Loop back through Ajaj (left) or continue straight to Wadi Nisah (Route 13).