Weekend Getaways from Riyadh: 5 Easy Escapes for Families

Let’s face it – as much as we love Riyadh, sometimes you just need to pack a bag, bundle the kids into the car (or onto a plane), and get a change of scenery. The good news? You don’t have to go far. Whether it’s desert adventure, cultural immersion, or a splashy beach break, there are plenty of family-friendly getaways just a few hours from the capital.

Here are five favourite weekend getaways from Riyadh – plus a handy round-up of easy regional escapes if you fancy hopping over a border or two.

1. AlUla: The Desert Dreamscape

Few places in Saudi Arabia are as jaw-dropping as AlUla. With its towering sandstone formations, Nabatean tombs, and open-air art installations, this UNESCO-listed region is now easier than ever to reach – especially with direct flights from Riyadh and smooth new roads for road-trippers.

Why it works for families:

• Plenty of outdoor space to explore and let off steam

• Easy guided experiences like the Heritage Oasis Trail and the zipline at Harrat

• Family-friendly glamping options and boutique hotels

Top tip: Book early if you're travelling in peak season (October–March). Accommodation fills fast – especially during events like Winter at Tantora.

2. Edge of the World: Dramatic Day Out or Overnight Adventure

Just 90 minutes from Riyadh, the Edge of the World (Jebel Fihrayn) is a mind-blowing natural rock escarpment that gives you sweeping views across an ancient ocean bed. It’s ideal for a Saturday outing or an overnight desert camp – especially when the weather is cool.

What to know:

• Best with a 4x4 – and even better with a guide if you’re unfamiliar with off-roading

• Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection

• Little legs may struggle with the full hike, but shorter routes offer the same wow factor

People Also Ask:Is Edge of the World safe for children? Yes – as long as you're cautious near the cliffs and go with an experienced driver.

3. Diriyah: Culture and Coffee Just 20 Minutes Away

If you only have a few hours but want something a bit special, Diriyah is your answer. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has had a seriously chic facelift. With its mudbrick architecture, leafy courtyards and buzzy Bujairi Terrace dining strip, it's now a go-to for family brunches and culture-filled afternoons.

What we love:

• Easy access – it's is still in Riyadh

• Gorgeous walking routes with views of Wadi Hanifa

• Great mix of heritage and modern cafes (yes, there's a Saudi version of Nobu here)

Top tip: Come early in the day or after sunset in hotter months. And book ahead for the restaurants – they’re that popular.

4. KAEC: Beach Break with a Side of Golf

If you’ve got a long weekend and want a beach fix without hopping on a plane, KAEC is a solid choice. Located near Jeddah but without the big-city hustle, this planned city offers pristine beaches, buggy rides, bike rentals, and a relaxed pace.

Great for families:

• Beach activities including banana boats, paddleboarding and sailing

• The Bay La Sun Hotel has family rooms and a kid-friendly vibe

• Clean, quiet, and well maintained

How to get there:You can drive (approx. 8–9 hours) or fly to Jeddah and drive up – but many families opt for the fast train from Riyadh to KAEC via Jeddah.

5. Shaqra & Ushaiqer Heritage Villages: History with Heart

Want to show the kids a slice of traditional Najdi life? Head north-west of Riyadh to explore the twin treasures of Shaqra and Ushaiqer. These sleepy heritage towns offer restored mud houses, winding alleyways and a taste of old Saudi life, just a couple of hours from the capital.

Highlights:

• Dress up in traditional clothing for photos

• Locally-run museums and shops

• Authentic Saudi hospitality – often with free Arabic coffee and dates

People Also Ask:How far is Shaqra from Riyadh? Roughly 190 km – a scenic two-hour drive with very little traffic.

Short-Haul Escapes That Feel Like a Proper Holiday

If you’re up for a quick flight or even a cross-border drive, here are a few favourite spots within easy reach from Riyadh. Great for long weekends or when you just need something that feels like a real getaway:

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi – Theme Park Central

Less than a two-hour flight from Riyadh, Yas Island is a dream weekend for kids (and grown-ups who like rollercoasters and lazy rivers). You’ve got Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, Ferrari World, and enough hotel brunches to keep everyone happy.

• Flight time: ~1h 45m direct

• Why it works: Uber-easy transfers, family packages, sunshine year-round

Top tip: Keep an eye out for combo park tickets – and if you're staying at a Yas hotel, you’ll often get park access included.

Regional Quick Escapes by Road or Plane

Destination	Drive Time from Riyadh	Flight Time	Highlights
Dubai	9–10 hrs (border dependent)	~2 hrs	Beaches, theme parks, endless malls
Bahrain	4.5–5 hrs	~1 hr	Brunches, shopping, island vibes
Doha	6–7 hrs	~1h 30m	Museums, waterfront, new and shiny
Jeddah	~10 hrs	~1h 40m	Corniche, historic Al-Balad, seafood

People Also Ask: Can you drive to Bahrain from Riyadh? Yes – it’s a straightforward highway route and one of the most popular weekend drives for expats. Border queues vary, so plan ahead.

From Desert to Coast in a Weekend

Whether you’re craving sandstone canyons, sea breezes, or just a brunch with a view, there’s no shortage of easy weekend getaways from Riyadh. From rugged Najdi villages to waterslides and waffle stations, your next family adventure is closer than you think.

Need help planning your next break? Check out our Family-Friendly Itinerary for Visiting Saudi Arabia or sign up to our newsletter for honest reviews, travel hacks, and life updates from sunny Riyadh.