01
Alaqan
1,107km
40km
Driving INTERMEDIATE
Best for A UNIQUE CULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Recommended for A BIT OF EVERYTHING
Traversing part of the northern Hijaz Mountains, off-roaders will find a mix of everything along this route – abandoned villages, hidden caves and an epic canyon. Driving can be a bit tricky in spots, with areas of soft loose sand, so it’s best to travel with two cars.
NEOM Guidelines
The publication of these potential routes DOES NOT imply access is allowed to the indicated areas. NEOM includes fragile cultural heritage sites and sensitive species and habitats.
Off-road driving, camping and independent exploration will be subject to the zoning and management plans of NEOM’s Nature Conservation Department.
All visitors to NEOM must uphold the highest standards of conduct, including adopting global best practice for 'leave no trace' camping and driving.
NO dune bashing or driving on vegetated areas- vehicles should NOT be driven off established tracks.
Visitors are responsible for checking the latest rules and regulations applying to off-road driving and access to NEOM, and for complying with all interim and final regulations and guidelines.
Visitors are responsible for confirming the current situation regarding accessibility to NEOM and for complying with NEOM permit requirements.
Following a distinct dirt track with many loose patches of sand, this route will pose a challenge for novice off-roaders. Whilst you must only drive on the designated tracks in this area, you can hike to the top of one of the larger dunes to take in the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and end the day by setting up camp and watching the sun go down.
As’dhaha Dark Tunnel
With entrances on opposite sides of a large boulder, the As’dhaha tunnel cuts into the depths of a lofty rock wall. It’s dark inside, so don’t forget to bring a torch. You may also want to wear long sleeves as you’ll feel an immediate drop in the temperature when you step into the dark recesses of this cavern.
Alaqan Red Canyon
The Red Canyon is a great opportunity to get out of the car and stretch your legs. Park at the mouth and take a trek to the end (about 2km), or if you have the skills and proper vehicle for sand driving, you can drive all the way to the back of the canyon. Here, you’ll find a couple of narrow, winding passages. As you step inside you’re enveloped by towering, fiery-red rock walls. No need to worry about losing your way in the labyrinth-like cave – a conscientious explorer has left small markings on the rock pointing the way to the entry and exit.
Almond trees are a common sight across north-western Saudi Arabia. Every season, a single tree produces about 150kg of almonds, making this tasty treat one of the nation’s most popular exports.
Alaqan Old Village
Near Haql city, located north-west of Tabuk, sits Alaqan Old Village. Also known as ‘The Snow City’, it’s a popular destination in the winter, when the whole area can be blanketed by snow. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, Alaqan is still an interesting place to visit. You can explore the village’s heritage homes, which are built on elevated areas using sandstone, showcasing the area’s traditional architectural style.
DRIVING DIRECTION
To venture on this route you will need a 4WD vehicle and desert driving experience.
1 Driving from Al Zaitah, turn right off the main road onto a paved track for approximately 18km.
2 Continue until you reach Tharf Water Pumping Station. At this intersection, you can opt to explore the nearby tracks. Continue onwards through a scenic wadi for 4km.
3 Explore the surrounding area of Alaqan Red Canyon and As’dhaha Dark Tunnel. Avoid driving close to the foothills of the mountains due to the deep and loose sandy track. Make your way back to the intersection and turn right towards Wadi al Mahash.
4 This track will take you alongside cliff views and camping spots, eventually ending at the Alaqan Old Village.
5 Continue on the paved track back to the main road.
