On the western part of Tabuk and Madinah Provinces lay the majestic Sarawat Mountains, stretching from Jordan all the way south to Yemen. These mountains host the highest peaks of the Arabian Peninsula, rising over 2,500 meters in Tabuk Province, with Jebel Lawz being the highest. In recent years, new roads have been built, allowing travelers to drive from the city of Madinah to the city of Tabuk through the Sarawat. This road, which alternates between the borders of Tabuk and Madinah provinces, offers stunning and varied scenery, ranging from high peaks of the Sarawat Mountains to traditional villages, pristine beaches of the Red Sea, and the spectacular cliffs of the mythical Wadi Qaraqir.
Day 1: Madinah to Al-Wajh
Starting from Madinah, head west towards the city of Yanbu. The road leads to Wadi Hura, which ascends Jebel Harir to a height of about 1,700 meters. Here, you’ll encounter the first highlight of the trip: a stunning view of the sinuous road that drops nearly 1,000 meters to the valley below. Drive carefully as you descend!
After passing through the villages of Al-Sudayrah and Al-Sharjah, the next stop is the traditional village of Yanbu’ Al-Nakheel, located at the confluence of several wadis from the surrounding mountains. Although the old houses are not well-maintained, the sophisticated and elegant masonry and carpentry typical of Arabian traditional architecture are still visible behind the new houses and on small plateaus throughout the main wadi.
From Yanbu’ Al-Nakheel, head north towards the village of Al-'Ays, known for its seismic activity. In May 2009, the village had to be evacuated due to a series of earthquakes caused by underground lava movements. The western Arabian Peninsula is scattered with “harra,” dark lava fields visible on satellite maps.
Further north, the road reaches the village of Abu Haramel, where the eastern road leads through Jibal Marzuqah. Here, the Sarawat Mountains take on a different aspect, which can be admired from the rocky formations along the way.
The next stop is 100 kilometers down a road (still under construction) leading to the village of Al-Manjour. From here, a junction (600 kilometers from the start) allows access to the coastal city of Al-Wajh for a stopover. Alternatively, you can continue to Al-Ula, but it is twice the distance.
A short detour around Jebel Aghalab, 30 kilometers north of Al-Manjour, guarantees dramatic sights of its granite dome structures. Arriving at Al-Wajh, you’ll be greeted by the crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea, with coral reefs visible from the shore. Al-Wajh offers a couple of hotels with sea-view rooms.
Day 2: Al-Wajh to Dissah
If you didn’t visit Jebel Aghalab on Day 1, you can make a 50-kilometer detour at the beginning of Day 2. The next stage is the road through the village of Bada to Markaz Al-Nijayl, heading north towards Jibal 'Amayir. This group of sandstone table mountains resembles the famous Monument Valley in the USA. Erosion has created amazing rock shapes, from peaks to natural pillars, and ancient rock art can be found throughout the area.
North of Jibal 'Amayir is the small village of An-Nashifah. Turning west, you’ll pass through the villages of Al-Fari’ah and Shuwaq, leading to the junction to the city of Dissah, the gateway to the spectacular Wadi Qaraqir. This 15-kilometer-long canyon runs through Jebel Qaraqir, a sandstone massif about 80 kilometers south of Tabuk. Once a well-kept secret among explorers, Wadi Qaraqir is now a must-see destination in Saudi Arabia.
The city of Dissah is 200 kilometers from Tabuk. If time allows, you can visit another natural wonder close to the road: the view from the top of the 400-meter cliffs of Jebel Khanayfah. However, reaching the best viewpoint requires driving 15 kilometers on sandy tracks, so off-road equipment is necessary.
Conclusion
This road trip from Madinah to Tabuk through the Sarawat Mountains offers an unforgettable journey through some of Saudi Arabia’s most stunning landscapes. From high mountain peaks and traditional villages to pristine beaches and dramatic canyons, this route showcases the diverse beauty of the Arabian Peninsula. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, this trip promises a unique and enriching experience.
