Saudi Tourism Minister and Saudi Tourism Authority Chairman Ahmed bin Aqil Al-Khateeb has launched the Northern Route as part of Saudi Winter 2026. Stretching 1,200 kilometres through Riyadh, Qassim and Hail, it includes 16 tourism stops and more than 130 experiences, delivered by 21 destination management companies and over 335 tour guides.
Running from Riyadh to Jubbah in Hail under the slogan “A Journey at Every Stop”, the route showcases destinations’ tourism, heritage and natural assets through historical sites, desert adventures, cultural activities and rural experiences, according to the authority’s X account.
The launch supports tourism products connecting Saudi regions and expands opportunities for local communities and tourism companies to provide experiences and visitor services.
16 stops across Riyadh, Qassim and Hail
The route passes through cities and destinations with varied historical and natural attractions:
Riyadh Region has eight stops: Riyadh, Thadiq, Shaqra, Ushaiqer, Al Qasab, Al Majma’ah, Al Ghat and Al Zulfi.
Qassim has six stops: Al Mithnab, Unaizah, Ar Rass, Al Bukayriyah, Buraidah and Uyun Al Jawa.
Hail Region has two stops: Hail city and Jubbah.
Experiences vary according to each destination’s character, encompassing heritage sites, historic villages, desert landscapes and rural areas.
More than 130 tourism experiences
The Northern Route offers over 130 experiences, including exploring historic villages and heritage landmarks, desert adventures, and rural and cultural activities.
Visitors can also sample local cuisine and discover traditional crafts, customs and traditions in communities along the route.
Twenty-one destination management companies and more than 335 guides will deliver these experiences, organising activities and introducing visitors to each stop’s tourism and historical assets.
The range provides multiple options combining cultural, heritage, nature and adventure tourism while travelling between Riyadh, Qassim and Hail.
Supporting local communities
Al-Khateeb said the launch represents a new step in developing tourism products that highlight Saudi Arabia’s diverse natural and heritage assets and enable visitors to discover new destinations and experiences.
He said it reflects a commitment to strengthening local communities’ role and enabling private companies to benefit from tourism growth.
Such products contribute to Saudi Vision 2030 by diversifying tourism experiences and increasing communities’ participation in economic activity.
Plans for expansion and new stops
The Saudi Tourism Authority said the initial launch is part of an ongoing development programme with partners.
Plans include studying additional sites, stops and experiences throughout the year, broadening visitor choice and strengthening connections between destinations along the route.
The launch follows the introduction of its official brand, which the authority encouraged private-sector businesses, partners and experience providers to adopt in their marketing and promotional activities.
The project aims to stimulate tourism across the three regions, strengthen local participation and create economic and investment opportunities for private businesses and entrepreneurs.
