Things To Do
in Arar
Arar is the capital city of the Northern Borders region in Saudi Arabia. It is located on the northern border with Iraq, and historically served as an important trading post. The city has a dry desert climate with hot summers and mild winters.
Arar is known for its cultural heritage and traditional markets, offering a glimpse into authentic Saudi Arabian life.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ma'a as-salama" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $75
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in Al-Resha Park, enjoying the morning breeze and the beautiful greenery. Take some time to connect with nature before the day heats up.
Visit the Arar Museum to learn about the region’s history and culture. Explore the interesting exhibitions that highlight the heritage and traditions of Saudi Arabia.
Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll along the Corniche. Enjoy the sunset views and perhaps grab a bite at a local cafe.
Get up early for an exciting desert excursion at the nearby Sand Dunes. Experience the thrill of dune bashing or camel riding as the sun rises.
Have a picnic lunch in the shade of a few palm trees scattered in the desert. Spend some time taking photos and appreciating the vast expanse of sands.
Return to the city for dinner and enjoy traditional Saudi cuisine in a local restaurant. Reflect on the adventures of the day under the starry desert sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic location near the border with Iraq, providing access for trade and travel.
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle.
- Opportunity for economic growth due to development plans and infrastructure improvements.
- Harsh desert climate, with extreme temperatures and limited water resources.
- Limited entertainment and recreational options compared to larger cities.
- Economic dependence on oil, making it vulnerable to market fluctuations.
Best Activities in Arar
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience traditional Bedouin camping in the vast desert of Arar, complete with camel rides and stargazing.
Explore the rugged terrain around Arar with thrilling off-road excursions, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
Discover the natural beauty of Arar through scenic hiking and trekking trails, offering breathtaking views of the desert landscape.
Tours
Uncover the best of Arar with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Arar
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its ancient standing stones and great panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Offers stunning views of the rock formations and historical sites including the famous Hegra (Mada'in Saleh) archaeological site.
A historic castle with great views over the surrounding area.
A historic fortress offering a unique vantage point for capturing the cityscape of Riyadh.
Food in Arar
Arar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish with tender spiced meat, often chicken, lamb or goat, garnished with almonds and raisins. Available at Al Bilad Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and thin layers of flatbread, cooked until it forms a thick, comforting consistency. Try at AlKadisiah Market for an authentic taste.
A porridge-like dish made from crushed wheat grains mixed with meat and spices, providing a wholesome and filling meal. Found at Al Qalb Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Arar better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Appease your food cravings by exploring this bustling market which offers a variety of local produce, spices, and ready-to-eat dishes like kababs, falafel, and grilled meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to dress conservatively in Arar, Saudi Arabia, especially for women. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothes.
It's essential to show respect for Islamic customs and traditions while in Arar. This includes being mindful of prayer times, not consuming alcohol in public, and being aware of gender segregation in certain spaces.
Greeting others with courtesy and respect is important in Arar. It's customary to use the Arabic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) and to address people formally using their titles or honorifics.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Arar with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Arar
Ensure a smooth experience
In Arar, Saudi Arabia, tipping is not a common practice in most places. However, in upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, and tipping is not expected. If the service charge is not included, a small tip of around 10% of the total bill can be given, but it is not mandatory.
Payment in Arar, Saudi Arabia is largely cash-based, especially for smaller transactions. However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is important to note that some places may not accept international credit cards, so it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions. Mobile payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular, with options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay being accepted in some locations.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Arar.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Arar with pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and cultural festivals.
Another great time to visit Arar with mild temperatures and clear skies, suitable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Hot and dry weather, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Not recommended for outdoor activities.
Cool to cold temperatures, occasionally dropping below freezing at night. Winter is ideal for enjoying traditional Saudi cuisine and indoor cultural experiences.
Arar at Night
Hiking in Arar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain located near Al-Ula, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history, suitable for hiking and exploration.
A nearby valley offering various hiking trails with beautiful natural scenery and wildlife.
A small archaeological site located near Al-Ula, featuring rugged terrain and cultural significance, ideal for hiking adventures.
A mountainous area offering challenging trails and a glimpse into the geological beauty of the region, popular among adventurous hikers.
Unique rock formations and canyons that provide excellent hiking opportunities amidst breathtaking views and historical sites.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Arar through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Arar by plane.
Located in Riyadh, approximately 780 km from Arar, this is the largest international airport in the central region of Saudi Arabia.
Located in Dammam, around 1050 km from Arar, it is one of the largest airports in the world by area and serves the Eastern Province.
Located in Jeddah, approximately 1300 km from Arar, it serves as the principal airport for international travelers to and from Mecca.
Situated in Medina, around 1150 km from Arar, this airport serves the city of Medina and is an important hub for pilgrims.
Located in Abha, approximately 1350 km from Arar, this airport offers both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population consists of Saudi citizens, who are primarily from the Najd region.
A significant number of expatriates from various countries work in Arar, contributing to the local economy.
Indigenous nomadic groups with deep-rooted traditions that are part of the cultural heritage of the region.
Includes citizens from neighboring Arab countries, who have settled or work in Arar.
Includes workers from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and African countries.
The Soul of Arar
Discover the essence of Arar through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Arar and throughout Saudi Arabia, with a strong following and numerous local clubs.
Volleyball enjoys significant popularity in Arar, with many residents actively participating in both indoor and beach volleyball.
Basketball is widely played in Arar, with local courts and leagues attracting many young athletes.
Track and field events are popular, especially among schools and youth programs, promoting fitness and competition.
Camel racing is a traditional sport in the region, with events that attract crowds and reflect local culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric, many local establishments offer vegetable-based dishes such as vine leaves, falafel, and hummus. Restaurants like Shams El Balad and Orjuwan Cafe provide dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus.
For those with gluten restrictions, seeking out rice-based dishes such as Kabsa or opting for grilled meats and fresh salads can offer suitable dining choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Arar with these cultural adventures.
