08
Sabkhat Umm Hishah
511km
50km
Driving MODERATE, SAND AND MUD TRACKS
Best for AVID BIRDWATCHERS
Recommended for A DAY BY THE WATER
The desert tips into blue-green lakes in this picturesque part of the country. The sprawling complex of wetlands is perfect for both a quiet picnic on the lakeside and an exhilarating drive along the surrounding sandy tracks. A great way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, you’ll be able to relax on the lakeshore and enjoy the biodiverse landscape.
At 12km across, Sabkhat Umm Hishah is one of the largest lakes in the region and a great place for relaxing around the water’s edge and spending a night camped around a fire. As you zigzag around the lake, there are plenty of places for you to stop and enjoy the view. A seasonal pop-up café can be found on its shores during the cooler months.
Sabkhat Umm Hishah
Also known as Yellow Lake and Al Asfar Lake, Sabkhat Umm Hishah is a nature reserve located on the outskirts of Al Hufuf city. It was formed by the runoff from 22,000 farms in the Al Ahsa region, one of the world’s largest oases. The shoreline varies between being wet, moist, semi-dry and dry throughout the year. These diverse conditions lead to a surprisingly large variety of plant species growing in the area. Sabkhat Umm Hishah is a real treat for enthusiastic birdwatchers as it attracts migratory birds. The winter is a particularly good time to visit as birds stop at the lake to breed.
Lake View
Driving along the lake’s shoreline, you’ll find several vantage points to admire the lake and nearby hills. Make sure you take a picnic, do some exploring and enjoy the sun setting over the water. If you have a sandboard, park at the summit of a dune and slide your way towards the water’s edge.
RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT
Remember to pay extra attention and proceed with caution when driving near plants. The desert is a unique ecosystem, home to a variety of wildlife fighting to survive. It is crucial to practice responsible off-road driving so that you can minimise your environmental impact.
DRIVING DIRECTION
While this route takes in a huge amount of the lake’s scenery, there are numerous paths and places to stop and explore – both in the car and out.
1 Come off Highway 6614 onto a sandy track at the foot of the lake. The track will take you across the canal and around the edge of the wetlands.
2 After about 8.3km, the road splits. The right fork takes you closer to the water’s edge.
3 The track forks again. Take the left track, which follows the lake. There are some excellent spots along here to set up camp.
4 Eventually you’ll reach the end of the lake. The track follows the powerlines back to the main road.
