Lilshira
Saudi Arabia launches ‘North Route’ tourism corridor in Winter 2026
Saudi Arabia has launched the 1,200‑kilometre “North Route” as part of its Winter 2026 tourism programme, connecting Riyadh to Ha’il through 16 stations. The corridor, announced on 11 November 2026, targets both domestic and international visitors seeking cultural, historical and adventure experiences along the central and northern regions.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- A new 1,200 km tourism corridor called “North Route” opens
- Timing
- Announced on 11 Nov 2026 as part of Winter 2026
- Who is affected
- Tourists, tour operators and local guides in Riyadh, Qassim and Ha’il
The details
- Announced by
- Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority, Ahmed bin Aqeel Al‑Khatib
- New rule
- The “North Route” creates a 1,200 km tourist trail with 16 stations across Riyadh, Qassim and Ha’il, offering more than 130 curated experiences ranging from historic village visits to desert adventures and cultural workshops.
Launch announcement
On 11 November 2026, the Saudi Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority, Ahmed bin Aqeel Al‑Khatib, introduced the “North Route” within the Winter 2026 programme under the slogan “Every stop is a journey”. The launch aims to showcase the cultural and natural assets of the central and northern provinces.
- The route is promoted as a flagship product of the Winter 2026 tourism season
- It is positioned to attract visitors seeking immersive cultural experiences
Route description
The corridor stretches approximately 1,200 kilometres from Riyadh to the town of Jubbah in Ha’il. Sixteen stations are distributed across Riyadh, Qassim and Ha’il, including Thadiq, Shaqra, Al‑Qasab, Al‑Majma‘ah, Al‑Ghat, Al‑Zulfi and major Qassim towns such as Al‑Mithnab, ‘Uyayna, Al‑Rass, Al‑Bukayriyah, Buraidah, ‘Uyun al‑Jiwa, before reaching Ha’il and Jubbah.
- More than 130 diverse experiences are offered, from historic village tours to desert safaris
- Local cuisine, traditional crafts and rural activities are highlighted at each stop
Implementation and partners
The project involves over 335 local tour guides and 21 destination‑management companies that coordinate activities and provide information on natural, historical and cultural sites. Communities along the route are engaged to organise events, share heritage and benefit economically from increased visitor flow.
The first phase is now operational, with plans to add new stations and experiences throughout the year based on partner feedback and tourism demand.
- Guides and companies receive training to ensure consistent visitor experience
- Continuous development is planned, allowing new sites to join the corridor
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers can now book itineraries that include any of the 16 stations along the North Route
- Existing bookings to Riyadh, Qassim or Ha’il can be expanded to incorporate the new experiences
- Tour operators may design multi‑day packages that follow the full 1,200 km trail
Cost and documents
- No additional visa fees are introduced by the launch of the North Route
- Travelers only need the standard entry documents required for Saudi Arabia
- Participation in specific activities may involve separate local fees, as set by guide operators
What you need to do
- Check with tour operators for availability of North Route packages before travel dates
- Confirm any extra activity fees directly with the guide or managing company
- Monitor the official Saudi tourism website for updates on new stations or experiences
Who this affects
-
International tourists
The route is marketed to visitors from abroad seeking cultural and adventure travel in Saudi Arabia
What to do Consider adding North Route stops to travel itineraries and verify activity availability
-
Domestic tourists
Saudi residents are encouraged to explore regional heritage through the new corridor
What to do Plan weekend or short‑break trips that follow the 16‑station itinerary
-
Tour operators
Operators can incorporate the 130+ experiences into packaged tours
What to do Develop and promote North Route itineraries, coordinating with the 21 destination‑management firms
-
Local guides and cultural groups
More than 335 guides and community organisations are enlisted to deliver the experiences
What to do Participate in training and coordinate with managing companies to host visitors
-
Cultural heritage enthusiasts
The corridor highlights historic villages, traditional crafts and local cuisine
What to do Visit designated stations to engage with authentic cultural activities
Frequently asked questions
What is the Saudi “North Route” tourism corridor?
The North Route is a 1,200‑kilometre tourist trail launched in Winter 2026 that links Riyadh to Ha’il through 16 stations, offering over 130 cultural, historic and adventure experiences.
When was the North Route announced?
The North Route was announced on 11 November 2026 as part of Saudi Arabia’s Winter 2026 tourism programme.
How many stations are on the North Route and where are they located?
The corridor includes 16 stations spread across the Riyadh, Qassim and Ha’il regions, covering towns such as Thadiq, Shaqra, Al‑Qasab, Al‑Majma‘ah, Al‑Ghat, Al‑Zulfi, Al‑Mithnab, ‘Uyayna, Al‑Rass, Al‑Bukayriyah, Buraidah, ‘Uyun al‑Jiwa and ending in Ha’il and Jubbah.
Do I need a special visa or fee to travel the North Route?
No special visa or additional national fee is required; travelers use the standard entry documents for Saudi Arabia, though individual activities may have separate local charges.
Who is responsible for organizing the experiences on the North Route?
More than 335 local guides and 21 destination‑management companies coordinate the activities, providing information, training and logistical support for each station along the route.
Can I add the North Route to an existing travel plan?
Yes, existing bookings to Riyadh, Qassim or Ha’il can be expanded to include any of the 16 stations, and tour operators are creating new packages that follow the full corridor.
