Things To Do
in Al Qurayyāt

Al Qurayyāt is a city located in the northern region of Saudi Arabia, near the border with Jordan. It serves as a gateway for travelers heading to the nearby city of Tabuk or exploring the scenic landscapes of the region. Known for its unique desert environment, Al Qurayyāt combines traditional Saudi culture with modern amenities.

The city is characterized by its friendly locals, bustling markets, and rich history.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Al Qurayyāt
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample traditional Saudi breakfast dishes.

afternoon
:

Visit the Al Qurayyāt Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, followed by a leisurely stroll in the nearby park.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant featuring authentic Saudi cuisine, and enjoy a relaxing evening at a café.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Embark on an outdoor adventure by exploring the rocky landscapes on a guided hiking tour.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby natural reserves for some bird watching and photography, capturing the local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional dinner, followed by a visit to one of the local cultural events or performances if available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
Coffee$3
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1
🛍️Local Souvenir$5
🏨Night in a Budget Hotel$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Delicious traditional cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Extreme summer heat may deter some visitors.
  • Language barrier for non-Arabic speakers.
  • "السلام عليكم" - Peace be upon you
  • "شكرا" - Thank you
  • "أين الحمام؟" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "كم السعر؟" - What is the price?
  • "نعم" - Yes

Places to Visit in Al Qurayyāt

Visit one of these nice places.

Al Qurayyāt Rock Formations

These stunning natural rock formations provide a dramatic backdrop for photographers and nature lovers.

Local Markets

Capture the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the local markets, filled with spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods.

Desert Landscape

The surrounding desert offers breathtaking sunset views and unique desert flora, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Al Qurayyāt

Al Qurayyāt offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring a mix of traditional Saudi dishes and modern flavors. Visitors can indulge in local fare that reflects the region's rich cultural heritage.

Al Qurayyāt Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kabsa

A spiced rice dish typically served with chicken or lamb, Kabsa is a staple in Saudi cuisine.

Must-Try!

Mandi

Similar to Kabsa, Mandi is another rice dish cooked with meat and flavored with saffron and other spices.

Sambusa

These are savory pastries filled with meat or vegetables, commonly enjoyed during Ramadan.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Al Qurayyāt Street Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local snacks, perfect for sampling street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Al Qurayyāt experiences a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F) at night. Rainfall is minimal, with most precipitation occurring between November and April.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Visitors are expected to dress modestly, especially in public areas, to respect local customs.

Respect Local Customs

Be mindful of local traditions and customs, especially during religious events and prayer times.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common, but be cautious of gender-specific interactions; wait for cues from locals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Al Qurayyāt is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be observed, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Tipping in Al Qurayyāt

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (around 10%) is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures are mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Summer

Expect extremely high temperatures; it is advisable to stay hydrated and seek indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Autumn

A pleasant season with cooler temperatures, perfect for hiking and outdoor events.

Winter

Mild temperatures make winter a great time to visit, especially for those looking to escape colder climates.

Nightlife Guide

Al Qurayyāt at Night

Al Qurayyāt offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a few cafes and restaurants that stay open late. While traditional nightlife like bars and clubs are not prevalent, many locals enjoy gathering in public parks and cafes to socialize in the evenings. Cultural events and festivals may also take place, providing a glimpse into local traditions.

Hiking in Al Qurayyāt

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wadi Al Disah Trail

A scenic hike through a beautiful valley with lush vegetation and stunning rock formations, perfect for nature lovers.

Jebel Al Lawz Trail

A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and desert landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Al Qurayyāt by plane.

Prince Abdul Mohsin Bin Abdulaziz Airport (TUU)

Located approximately 15 km from Al Qurayyāt, this airport serves domestic flights and some international routes, making it the closest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Al Qurayyāt is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where attractions and markets are located close to each other. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may not be pedestrian-friendly. It's advisable for visitors to plan their routes and consider transportation options for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bedouins

This group represents the traditional nomadic tribes of the region, known for their rich heritage and connection to the desert.

Urban Residents

Comprising a mix of locals and expatriates, urban residents live in Al Qurayyāt and contribute to its modern development and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Saudi Arabia, with many local teams and matches drawing significant crowds.

Camel Racing

A traditional sport in the region, camel racing events are held periodically, showcasing the cultural heritage of the area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Al Qurayyāt is generally light compared to larger cities, making it easy to navigate by car. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but many residents prefer using private vehicles. Visitors should be cautious of local driving customs.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Al Qurayyāt.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional cuisine includes a lot of meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Halal Standards

All food is generally halal, but always confirm with the restaurant if you have specific dietary requirements.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Al Qurayyāt include public hospitals and private clinics, offering a range of medical services. Emergency services are available, but for specialized care, residents may travel to larger cities like Tabuk. It is recommended for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Saudi Arabia

Read more in our Saudi Arabia 2025 Travel Guide.

Saudi Arabia Travel Guide