Wherever you care to ride in Saudi, you’ll probably find groups of riders to keep you company. The groups are often under the supervision of the Saudi Cycling Federation or organizations such as the Darrajati Association. There are also regional groups in certain cities, including the Jeddah Cyclist group and Al Ahsa Cyclists, whose members organize bicycle trips to surrounding areas.

Dr. Faisal Al Ghareb, founder of Al Ahsa Cyclists, explains that there are a number of routes riders like to explore in Saudi depending on the type of terrain they seek. Those interested in coastal trips might like the Jeddah-to-Yanbu route. For people who like steep ascents, there are mountainous regions in the south, such as Abha, Al Namas and Taif. For desert rides marked by golden sands, riders can go between Riyadh and Saudi’s eastern and northern regions. And along the east, there are forested areas where small plants and savanna abound.
 

Tariq Daghestani, a member of the Jeddah Cyclist group, recently rode from Al Madinah to Jeddah and spent a night in the village of Al Musayjid. “It was not our only trip. We also rode from Jeddah to Riyadh in nine days. Such trips seem arduous, but they are enjoyable, and camping afterwards in the open air and under the sky and stars is a special pleasure,” he says.

Dr. Al Ghareb recently documented his travels on his recumbent bike to the historic port of Uqair. He says it’s crucial to prepare your travel plans before hitting the road and attach your map to them, whether they’re on your mobile device or paper (a good option if you’ll be out of cellphone range).
 

A cross-country bike is the safest bet for bikepacking, since it usually features accessories that allow you to link luggage and equipment to it. There are many places that rent these bikes, including Bikes for All, Go Bike Saudi, Wheels Bikes and the Aljariyat Bike Shop.
 

Dr. Al Ghareb recommends the following supplies for biking: padded biking shorts, gloves, sunscreen, a helmet and shoes you can wear for riding and hiking. He also recommends either putting a light on your bike or wearing reflective clothing for evening rides. As for camping supplies, he suggests a backpack, a lightweight tent with a shade sail, containers for water and food, basic cooking equipment, an inflatable mattress and a sleeping bag. But perhaps most important are mobile chargers, communication tools, a bike maintenance kit and a first-aid kit. Also, be sure you tell someone of your whereabouts before you head out. Last, while you do not need a license for bikepacking, it’s wise to check in on the roads and traffic where you plan to ride to get the lay of the land. The Ministry of Interior has resources that can help.

Some regions have established bicycle paths and organized trips for exploring certain cities. For example, the Wheels program allows you to discover the beauty of AlUla on a 26-kilometer trail from the village of Al Atheeb to the archaeological site of Hegra. The program provides assistance to participants along the way. Hala Yalla, meanwhile, offers a group trip to Riyadh landmarks. But if you are a fan of cooler climes, you may want to try the new path in the mountain city of Al Namas in the Aseer region. Prepare to take a tour of the city, then set up your tent in one of its forests that seemingly reach the clouds.