Mido & Tolo | On the Road in Saudi Arabia | Overlanding, Road Trips & Wild Camping

Baked in to Saudi's culture

Arabia is made for road trips – endless horizons, wild landscapes, and the kind of adventures you just can’t have from a tour bus. This is our collection of real overlanding stories, wild camping tips, and the best routes across the Kingdom – written by people who’ve racked up the kilometers themselves.

What Makes Saudi Overlanding Unique?

Forget what you know about road trips elsewhere. In Saudi, you’ll find endless empty highways, actual wild camping, and a landscape that changes from red dunes to volcanic rock to palm-filled oases. Gas is cheap, distances are huge, and you’ll meet more camels than cars outside the cities.

Before You Hit the Road – Essentials Checklist

Navigation: Download offline maps (signal disappears fast when you're far out) Fuel: Fill up at every station (some are 200km+ apart) Food & Water: Always bring extra – sometimes shops can be hours apart Weather: Check for sandstorms and flash flood risk areas Permits: Most camping is legal, but double-check for protected areas Respect: Leave no trace, and always greet locals you meet

Pro Tips from the Saudi Road

Is wild camping really allowed everywhere?

Yes, in most areas! You can pitch a tent almost anywhere outside urban zones or protected parks. Just be respectful – leave no trace and avoid private farms or obvious “no entry” signs.

How do you find the best camp spots?

We scout on Google Earth, ask locals, or just drive around until we find a spot that calls our name for the night. The best spots are often just out of sight from the main road, with a view of something epic.

What’s the biggest rookie mistake?

Underestimating distance and fuel needs. We’ve run out of fuel mid-journey before - on our way to the Medinah airport no less! Luckily the locals are very helpful, and someone quickly came to our rescue.

What are the real dangers?

Camels on the road at night (seriously, they’re invisible), sudden sandstorms, and sometimes getting stuck in soft sand. In the hotter months, critters like snakes and scorpions are a potential risk as well. Always tell someone your route if you’re going remote.

How do Saudis react to campers?

Usually with curiosity and kindness! We’ve had locals invite us for tea, bring us food, and even help dig us out when stuck.

Ready for your own road trip?

You don’t need a 4x4 (though it helps) – just a sense of adventure and a willingness to get a little lost. Check out our detailed guides, or send us your questions!

Wild Camping Tips