06
Judah’s Thumb
432km
41km
Driving EASY, ROCK AND SAND TRACKS
Best for A WEEKEND OF CAMPING AND CLIMBING
Recommended for A STELLAR SUNSET
Soft sand meets the hard stone of Jibal Hamra on this adventurous route. Sandy paths meander through low-lying, rocky outcrops making this an ideal outing for some hiking and climbing. Hidden among the rock formations are open caverns that are less intimidating than the subterranean ‘dohoul’ (similar to sinkholes) in the heart of the desert.
Approximately 150km from Dammam, this route offers a wide variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The accessible rocky outcrops make this an excellent route for a family day out, as young adventurers can scale some of the smaller boulders and explore the open caves. The sandy trails between the rocks are also a nice place to pitch a tent if you want to make a night of it.
Rock Arch
An easy climb to the top of the arch, you’ll find yourself on a flat ledge with panoramic views of the rock formations below. Shaped over millions of years, these features occur when water or wind erodes a rock down to a ‘fin’. These fins are tall, thin sheets of rock that can erode further into windows and arches. Alternatively, arches may be formed when potholes near a cliff edge grow deeper and deeper until they wear through the cliff wall below.
Judah's Thumb Viewpoint
A moderate hike up this rocky cluster will provide a better view of Judah’s Thumb and the surrounding area. From higher up, you’ll be able to watch for camels winding their way across the sands, plan a trek through the stony paths of Jibal Hamra, or simply enjoy a spectacular sunset.
Keyhole Cave
As you step through the key-hole shaped entrance, the rock faces rise up around you. Open to the sky, this 15m-long cavern is a tight fit in places and is a chance to see up close how a fault line in a rock can be eroded away over time. Depending on the time of day, you may also want to carry a torch as it can get quite dark towards the back of the cave.
CULTURE OF HOSPITALITY
As you explore Saudi Arabia’s natural beauty, you’re bound to encounter locals even in the most remote areas. The Saudi people take great pride in their country and its heritage and are always eager to speak with tourists. If you are lucky enough to come across a friendly local who offers you a cup of the local gahwa coffee and dates, make sure you take the opportunity to experience Arabian hospitality.
Five Chambers Cave
This fossil-studded cave is comprised of large rocks that create five interconnected chambers. Approximately 300m long, it is an excellent place for families to explore. If you look closely, you might be lucky enough to find impression fossils which contain imprints of plants or animals from long ago.
Judah's Thumb
A short distance outside the town of Judah, a lonely thumb-shaped rock protrudes out of the desert plain. There is no established track to reach the site, and the path to it is rocky, so drive with caution. Here, you can set up camp and enjoy the unending views of the star-studded sky.
WHEN PREPARING FOR A HIKE, TRY TO AVOID THE HOTTEST PART OF THE DAY. BE SURE TO STAY HYDRATED AND KNOW YOUR LIMITS. IF YOU FIND YOURSELF GETTING TIRED, STOP AND TAKE A BREAK.
TIME FOR A TREK
For those who enjoy a good hike, this is a perfect route. The winding paths of Jibal Hamra offer varying levels of difficulty for novice and expert trekkers alike. Whether you’re looking for a challenging trudge between rugged rock walls or interested in a serene stroll atop a boulder, there’s truly something for everyone.
For further tips and insights into hiking across the Kingdom, refer to the ‘Activities’ section. You can also find some useful information regarding camping and basic equipment if you want to spend the night camped out under the stars.
DRIVING DIRECTION
As you weave in and out of the low-lying rocky outcrops of Jibal Hamra, you’ll come across some stellar geological features.
1 Head out of the village of Urayirah for 6km.
2 Eventually the paved road ends and a series of sand tracks are laid out before you. Take the second fork towards the camel farm, detouring via the Rock Arch.
3 At the fork, turn left. Continue straight for 2.8km.
4 At the next fork, turn left to head up to the Judah’s Thumb Viewpoint. Once you have taken in the panorama, return to the fork and take the other track.
5 After 3.8km, you’ll find Keyhole Cave on the left. Once you have finished exploring, continue on until you reach Five Chambers Cave.
6 Eventually you’ll reach Judah’s Thumb. After spending some time in its company, head back on the main route towards the main road.
