One of my favorite things to do on a weekend in Riyadh is to hop in the car and just drive — no strict plans, no itinerary, just the open road and the promise of discovery. A few weekends ago, I did just that and ended up somewhere truly special: Sufarrat Old City, a small village about an hour north of Riyadh.
This quiet, charming village feels like stepping into a time capsule of Saudi Arabia’s not-so-distant past. From the weathered mud-brick homes to the village’s old water well, everything whispers stories of a simpler life — of community, of tradition, of endurance in the desert.
Although we didn’t camp overnight, the spot would be perfect for it. A nearby dam was built to protect the area from seasonal floods, and the surrounding desert is wide open, peaceful, and ideal for a quiet night under the stars. I could easily picture a tent, a campfire, and the kind of conversations that only happen when phones are down and stars are out.
Instead, I spent the afternoon wandering the village, soaking in the calm. I was fortunate enough to visit a local date farm and even chat with some of the residents who still live in the area. There’s something grounding about meeting people who have stayed rooted in a place so connected to heritage and nature. Their hospitality, as always in Saudi, was effortless and generous.
Sufarrat reminded me why I love exploring the Kingdom. It’s not just about the big cities or shiny new developments — it’s about finding the heartbeat of a place in its quieter corners. It’s about realizing that sometimes, what you need most isn’t a five-star weekend, but a few quiet hours in the desert — where the silence is thick, the wind is soft, and the land itself feels sacred.
If you’re ever in Riyadh and looking to do something different, hop in the car and head north. Sufarrat Old City may not be on every travel guide, but trust me — it’s the kind of place that stays with you.
🛣️ How to Get There:
Al Safrat Old City is located roughly 1 hour northwest of Riyadh, making it an easy and rewarding day trip for anyone looking to explore Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural landscape.
🚗 By Car:
From Riyadh, take Route 65 (King Fahd Road) heading north. After about 85–90 km, use Google Maps and enter “Al Safrat Old City” or “الصفارات” in Arabic. The site is marked by a distinctive stone sign and is located just off the main road. The drive is scenic and straightforward, with plenty of desert views along the way.
📍 Coordinates (for Google Maps):
25°19’37.7″N, 46°03’12.1″E
Click here to view on Google Maps
🧭 Travel Tips:
- A 4WD isn’t necessary, but a car with decent clearance is helpful if you plan to explore off-road areas nearby.
- Bring water, snacks, and sun protection — the site is remote with minimal facilities.
- Best visited in the late afternoon when the desert light softens, perfect for photos and peaceful exploration.
- Consider packing a picnic or even gear for an overnight camp if you want to experience the tranquility of the desert under the stars.