05
Al Ghiran Rocks
418km
20km
Driving EASY, PACKED SAND TRACKS
Best for A QUICK DESERT DRIVE
Recommended for A FAMILY AFTERNOON
The vast open plain on this route is punctuated by large rock formations, which jut out of the ground like monoliths. This simple drive is a classic Saudi Arabian route, coupling desert driving with some epic geology.
This remote strip of desert is not a challenging drive, perfect for those with little off-road experience. While you drive across the flat and arid landscape, which seemingly flows into the horizon, it’s easy to be overcome by the sense of solitude that can be experienced in such a remote place.
If you are looking for a full day out with more variety, we highly recommend pairing this drive with Route 6, which begins near the end of this route.
Al Ghiran Rocks 1 & 2
The plains of Al Ghiran would be completely flat if not for these lofty outcrops. Their mushroom shapes are created by the higher material-carrying capacity of wind being closer to the ground, increasing abrasion at its base. Moulded by years of this erosion process, it’s a great place to see some interesting geology and cool off in the shade the rocks create.
A DUNE WILDERNESS
Defined as a mound of sand moulded by the wind, dunes are a playground for off-roaders. Dune belts, or dune fields, are the terms used for large areas of dunes and if a dune field covers more than 125km2, it becomes an ‘erg’. The largest deserts in the world contain multiple ergs and they can also be found on Venus, Mars and Saturn’s moon, Titan.
Darb al Judi Desert
The beige-coloured sands of the Darb al Judi Desert offer level terrain and low-lying dunes that are easy to traverse. For those still getting the hang of off-road driving in the desert, this is an excellent place to practise your skills.
THE PASSAGE OF TIME
A testament to the slow and steady process of change, the rock formations you see on your journey have undergone years of transformation. Interestingly, the oldest dated rocks were formed in modern-day Canada during the Hadean Eon of Earth’s geological history, meaning these rocks have undergone four billion years of change. While the rocks you encounter in Saudi Arabia might not be quite this old, they are still a reminder of the ongoing process of erosion which creates these unique formations.
DRIVING DIRECTION
A perfect route for beginners, this drive follows packed sand tracks that take you to the magnificent rocky outcrops located in the Darb al Judi Desert.
1 Turn right off Highway 40 and continue on the sandy track for 5km.
2 Continue straight towards the Al Ghiran Rocks or stop and follow the track to your left for some extra dune bashing.
3 Explore the rocks. Once you have finished, you can drive the other off-road routes in the area. If you head towards Judah’s Thumb you can join Route 6. Alternatively, you can head back the way you came.
