EXPLORING MOUNT URAIDH (URAIDA) - Riyadh Hiking Spot

Riyadh Hiking Spot - Al Uraida, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - While Mount Uraida isn't the official name of this place, I could not find any name through different sources during my research. Even after asking locals from the nearby area, they were unsure if it had a name. Consequently, I called it Mount Uraida since it is near Al Uraida.

Mount Uraidh offers a picturesque landscape and accessible slopes, making it an excellent choice for inexperienced hikers and those looking for a leisurely climb. Its gentle gradients allow for a comfortable ascent while providing breathtaking views that reward climbers of all skill levels.

For basic free mountain climbing, this mountain perfectly fits to start with:

• The slope at the start is usually scalable.

• As you get into the middle of the climb, you start experiencing the thrills.

• You will encounter rocks you need to scale up to advance to the top during the past half of the climb.

• Closing to the top, cliffs on the right side greet you with chilling effects on your knees; you know you have conquered something beyond your usual limit.

• Past the cliffside, the climb is easier again until you reach the top.

• At the top, enjoy looking at the entire state park of Al Waslah, the cars running, and the people picnicking below the mountain.

As you descend, you'll experience the same excitement as when you were climbing. Still, having begun to overcome your fears about free mountain climbing, you'll consider attempting it again with an even greater sense of adventure.

How to Get to the Place

It is easily reachable by any vehicle. It is located 21 km from the Kingdom Center and is a 40-minute away.

Traveling from the city center through Al Shifa and Dirab is significantly simpler than going along Dirab Road. Approximately 500 meters from the Dirab Security Checkpoint, turn left onto Road 5399, which links Dirab to Haeer.

Approximately 4-5 km from where you turn left, a park will be on your left. Locate the entrance and follow the car path to reach the cove point. Google directions will guide you to the spot.

I recommend using a car with high clearance, though a 4x4 drive isn't essential. People with low-clearance vehicles may need to park further from the base of Mt. Uraida. However, this isn't a significant issue since the distance from Road 5399 is about 2km.

Activities

1. Mountain trekking

2. Whole day picnic

3. Overnight camping

4. Sunrise and sunset watching

The breathtaking landscape of the valley and the mountain seen at the viewing point of Mount Uraidh.

What to Expect

1. Nature park with no structures - The aesthetic characteristics of the place standstill without the concrete structures

2. There is no water supply facility, so bring enough drinking water for your entire stay.

3. Away from shops and markets – get adequate foodstuff.

4. If there is no comfort room facility, Bring a tent that will serve as a makeshift covering for the lady's comfort.

5. No permanent cleaners are assigned to maintain the wellness of the surroundings – You need to keep your garbage inside plastic trash bags and bring it with you once you leave the area for proper disposal.

What to See

1. Underground water spring

2. Scenic view of the valley down the hills.

3. Different species of tropical and non-tropical birds dwell in the area. – Hear them sing

From the parking area, continue walking until the end of the mountain cave. There, you will find the water spring that supplies the water needs of the wildlife around it.

See More Images:

The mountaintops and ridges that one can see upon reaching the viewing point of Mount Uraidh.

The author (left) and another hiker enjoying the sights

The rock tower at the shoulder slope of the mountain.

For your easy direction, here is the location:

https://www.google.com/maps/place/24%C2%B026'29.2%22N+46%C2%B039'24.2%22E/@24.441432,46.65672,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x0!8m2!3d24.441432!4d46.65672