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Hijaz Railway: Zumurrut to Bir Aba al Hadid
717km
45km
Driving MODERATE
Best for LONG DRIVES
Recommended for RAILWAY FANATICS
The sandy tracks of the Hijaz Railway, from Zumurrut to Bir Aba al Hadid Station, offer a long but scenic route reminiscent of what religious pilgrims might have experienced on their journey to visit the holy cities of Makkah and Al Madinah. Driving through the desert for 90km, you’ll follow the old railway tracks and explore abandoned train stations.
This route follows the original railway embankments that cut through Saudi Arabia’s desert sand and basalt mountains. You will be able to stop approximately every 20km to explore the different abandoned stations. The drive will pass by barren valleys, sandy flats and countless bridges that remain in very good condition. There are also plenty of ghaf trees growing in the area which are perfect for resting underneath. Be on the lookout as you’re sure to spot some shy donkeys and camels.
Zumurrut Fort
One of many forts located along the Hijaz Railway, this hilltop fort is said to have been used by soldiers who guarded the tracks from its watchtowers when the railway was in operation.
Rail Bridges
Built out of the volcanic rocks readily available in the area, the historic railway bridges are an absolute must-see while visiting Saudi Arabia. There’s also a lot of left behind track ballast which appears almost sculptural, scattered across the dusty landscape.
WATER POWER
Steam locomotives, like the ones operated on the Hijaz Railway, required large quantities of water to generate enough steam to power the engine. At most stations, you will notice water towers that were designed to be easily accessible for conductors to replenish their water tender. These water tanks would take hours to refill and could hold an average of two train tenders.
Bir Aba al Hadid Station & Fort
Bir Aba al Hadid Station and Fort sit close to one another along this route. The former is one in a long line of abandoned station houses of varying sizes that you’ll come across as you travel along the old railway line. The latter is similar in style to Zumurrut Fort, a square brick building, clearly built for defensive purposes.
DRIVING DIRECTION
This route includes a mixture of paved roads and sandy tracks that cut across the mountainous terrain. It largely follows the path of the old Hijaz Railway line.
1 Take a right turn off Highway 375 from AlUla – a communication tower marks the exit.
2 A short drive will bring you to the ruins of Zumurrut Fort. Stop and explore the surrounding area and hills before taking a left towards the Hijaz Railway track.
3 Meet the railway and follow its path past the rail bridges and ballast stock all the way to the abandoned station at Bir Aba al Hadid.
4 Follow the track as it turns to the left and sweeps past Bir Aba al Hadid Fort as you head back to the main road.
