Dubai to Riyadh Road Trip Guide (2026)
Around 990 km via the Al Batha border: fuel stops, desert highway safety, Saudi eVisa, Manafith insurance and what to expect on the longest single-country GCC drive.
~990 km
Distance
10–11 hr
Drive time
Al Batha
Border
The route
The Dubai to Riyadh road trip runs west on the E11 through Abu Dhabi to Al Ghuwaifat, crosses the Al Batha border into Saudi Arabia, then continues through the Eastern Province via Al Hofuf to Riyadh. It is the most direct overland route and the only practical option for private vehicles.
From Abu Dhabi the drive is about 885 km and 9–10 hours. From Sharjah, add roughly 20 km and 15–30 minutes. Most drivers break the trip with an overnight near Al Hofuf or push through with two drivers taking turns.
Summer heat warning
From May to September, daytime temperatures on the desert highway regularly exceed 50°C. A breakdown in that corridor is dangerous. If you must travel in summer, drive at night or very early morning, carry extra water and ensure your cooling system is serviced.Key stops from Dubai
240 km
Al Ruwais fuel stop
Fuel, EV charging and refreshments
375 km
Al Ghuwaifat / Al Batha border
UAE exit and Saudi entry
710 km
Al Hofuf rest break
Fuel, dining and prayer
Fuel up fully before Al Ruwais — the stretch between Al Ruwais and Al Hofuf has limited services. Keep your tank above half at all times on the Saudi side.
Border crossing at Al Batha
UAE exit (Al Ghuwaifat)
- Drive to Al Ghuwaifat on the E11.
- Present passports and Emirates IDs for all passengers.
- Pay the exit fee (~AED 35 per eligible person) — carry cash.
- Complete exit stamps and continue to the Saudi side.
Saudi entry (Al Batha)
- Present passport and Saudi eVisa at the counter.
- Show vehicle registration, driving licence and Manafith insurance.
- Officers may check your travel plan and accommodation.
- Clear final checks and continue toward Al Hofuf and Riyadh.
Documents checklist
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Emirates ID and Mulkiya (vehicle registration)
- Saudi eVisa (SAR 535 / ~AED 525) — UAE nationals free
- Manafith-accepted motor insurance for Saudi Arabia
- NOC from the finance/rental company if car is not in your name
- Cash for UAE exit fee (~AED 35) and Saudi fuel
- Offline map downloaded — mobile signal is weak on desert stretches
- Full spare tyre checked, coolant and water topped up
Cost estimate
A realistic Dubai to Riyadh return budget for the car and essentials (no premium hotels):
AED 450–650
Fuel (return)
AED 20–40
Tolls (Salik + Darb)
AED 100–200
Insurance
AED 280–420
Hotel (1 night)
Add the Saudi eVisa (~AED 525) if applicable. Total return trip for a sedan with one overnight stay: roughly AED 1,400–1,800 excluding the visa.
Dubai to Riyadh — frequently asked questions
How long does it take to drive from Dubai to Riyadh?
The drive is roughly 990 km and takes 10–11 hours of driving time. Add 30 minutes to 1 hour for the Al Batha border crossing. Most drivers break the trip with a rest stop or overnight near Al Hofuf.
What visa do I need to drive to Saudi Arabia?
UAE and GCC nationals enter visa-free. UAE residents need a Saudi tourist eVisa (~SAR 535 / AED 525 including mandatory insurance). Apply at visitsaudi.com before departure.
Is the Dubai to Riyadh road safe?
The road is a well-maintained dual carriageway. The main risks are extreme summer heat, long monotonous stretches causing fatigue, and limited services between fuel stops. Travel with a full spare tyre, water and a downloaded offline map.
Can I take a rental car from Dubai to Riyadh?
Only with written permission from the rental company. Many UAE rental companies restrict Saudi Arabia travel. Get an NOC listing Saudi Arabia by name and confirm insurance covers the full route.