into Saudi Arabia

[netllama]

Continuing a periodic series of trip reports from some of the more obscure corners of the planet, I recently returned from spending ten days self-driving around the kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).  Tourism is a very new concept for Saudis, as they didn't even issue tourist visas until late 2019.  Then they closed their borders completely due to the pandemic for over a year.  I've wanted to visit KSA for quite some time, primarily to explore the legendary deserts, and also to learn more about a place that is mostly not well understood by the West.  Overall, the trip went exceedingly well.  I saw a lot of desert (its mostly unavoidable there), and met a number of friendly Saudis.  I also drove over 3200 miles around a country which is about the same size as Alaska & Texas combined.

I'm sure you came for the photos, right?

everyone loves some derpy cute camels, right?

Al Waba crater.  Its like Ubehebe's (much bigger) brother!

near the crater

bones bones bones 

the very empty quarter

Zaabal Castle

Zee Ain village

Rijal Alma'a village 

old Ottoman era fort 

the eye 

its a face

plant id?

Herrat viewpoint over Al Ula 

the view


For the curious, I have a very detailed, day by day trip report available HERE. I also have many other photos posted HERE.