Dubai to the Sacred Cities: A Soulful Road Trip Through Saudi Arabia 2025

Published on March 4, 2025 • 8 min read

A Memorable Road Trip from Dubai to Medina and Makkah:

There’s something truly special about embarking on a road trip: the thrill of the open road, the freedom to pause whenever you desire, and the excitement of discovering new places along the way. My recent journey from Dubai to Saudi Arabia—specifically to Medina (Madinah) and Makkah—was exactly that: an unforgettable experience combining adventure, spirituality, and cherished moments with friends and family.

Starting the Journey: Dubai to Riyadh

Border Crossings: Our trip began in Dubai. After packing all our essentials, we set off early to beat the traffic. We crossed Abu Dhabi border Ghuwaifat and eventually passed through the Batha border into Saudi Arabia. The border crossing was smooth; just ensure you have all your documents ready (passport, visa, car insurance, and COVID-related requirements if applicable).
Road Conditions and Driving Experience: Once inside Saudi Arabia, the highways are generally well-maintained. However, do keep an eye on speed limits and traffic regulations, as there can be regular checkpoints.
Overnight Stay in Riyadh: Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, is a thriving metropolis known for its iconic skyline and modern infrastructure. From world-class shopping malls and business districts to cultural landmarks, it seamlessly blends tradition and innovation, offering a dynamic environment for residents and visitors alike.
Since Riyadh is roughly in the middle of this long journey, we decided to rest there for the night. We stayed at a friend’s house, where we enjoyed warm hospitality and a home-cooked meal. After a good night’s rest, we woke up early the next morning to continue our journey toward Medina.

Riyadh to Medina: Approximately 8 Hours

Early Morning Departure: We hit the road right after sunrise, which allowed us to avoid the morning rush in Riyadh. The desert landscapes were breathtaking in the early light.
Arrival in Medina: By the afternoon, we reached Medina, often called the radiant city. The spiritual ambiance was palpable the moment we set foot in the city.
Medina (Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah) is revered as the second holiest city in Islam, home to the Prophet’s Mosque, Masjid an-Nabawi, where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is buried.It holds immense spiritual significance, serving as the city where early Islamic teachings flourished and the first Muslim community was established. Visiting Medina instills a profound sense of peace and reverence, drawing pilgrims from all over the world.
Roza-e-Rasool, located within the Prophet’s Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi) in Medina, is the resting place of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).Adjacent to the Green Dome, this blessed chamber holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims, symbolizing love and reverence for the Prophet and serving as a focal point for prayer and reflection.
Hotel Stay – Taiba Front: For our two-night stay, we chose the Taiba Front Hotel, which turned out to be one of the best decisions of our trip. Here’s why: Proximity to the Ladies’ Entrance: Located very close to the ladies’ entrance of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque), which made it extremely convenient for women in our group to attend prayers. Breakfast Included: A hearty breakfast spread was included each morning, ensuring we were energized for our day. Comfortable Suite & Cleanliness: We stayed in their suite, which was spotless, spacious, and offered a lovely view of the city. The room service and housekeeping were top-notch.
Exploring Medina: Aside from prayers at the Prophet’s Mosque, we spent time strolling around the mosque’s courtyard, visiting nearby shops and restaurants. The serene atmosphere of Medina is truly indescribable—quiet, calm, and filled with a sense of peace that lingers in your heart.

Lastly during our stay to Medina we visited Masjid Quba : Masjid Quba is cherished as the first mosque built in Islam, established by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) shortly after his migration (Hijrah) from Makkah to Medina. Located on the outskirts of Medina, it symbolizes the humble beginnings of the Islamic community and stands as a testament to unity and devotion. The Prophet (peace be upon him) is reported to have said that performing two raka’ahs (nafl prayers) in Masjid Quba holds a reward equivalent to an ‘Umrah, underscoring its spiritual significance. During our visit there, we offered prayers, connected with early Islamic history, and felt a profound sense of tranquility reflecting the legacy of faith that continues to inspire millions of believers.

Journey from Medina to Makkah via Miqaat Dhul-Hulaifa

Miqaat Dhul-Hulaifa: After our soul-refreshing stay in Medina, we headed to Dhul-Hulaifa, the Miqaat (a station for entering Ihram for Umrah). We changed into our Ihram garments, recited the intention for Umrah, and continued onward to Makkah.
Arriving in Makkah Muqarramah: Entering Makkah always feels like stepping into a realm of deep spirituality and reverence. The city’s skyline, punctuated by the clock tower near the Holy Mosque, is a sight to behold.
Makkah stands as the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is home to the Kaaba, the sacred structure that Muslims around the world face during daily prayers. The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, drawing millions of believers every year to perform essential religious rites.
Hotel Stay – Courtyard by Marriott :For our four-night stay, we chose the Courtyard by Marriott and were thoroughly impressed:Awesome Experience & Buffet Breakfast: The buffet had an excellent variety of international and local dishes, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.Proximity to the Holy Mosque: Though not right next door, there’s a convenient shuttle service to the mosque. Alternatively, taking a quick taxi ride is also easy.Comfort & Hospitality: The hotel staff were friendly and accommodating, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Performing Umrah: Words fail to capture the feeling of performing Umrah at the Holy Kaaba. The sense of unity, peace, and humility felt during Tawaf (circumambulation) and Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwa) is profoundly moving.
Four Days in Makkah: During our four-day stay, we spent most of our time in the mosque, performing prayers and soaking in the spiritual environment. We also took the opportunity to explore local eateries and shops near the Haram area—nothing beats the sweet local desserts and fresh juice stalls after hours of worship.

Return Journey: Makkah to Dubai via Riyadh

Retreating to cooler, mountainous terrain through Taif from Makkah to Riyadh, I embrace the intriguing allure of open skies, vivid landscapes, and the pleasant chill—an invigorating experience set against the vivid mountain scenery.

Taking the route from Makkah to Riyadh via Taif was a fantastic decision for several reasons. Taif, often called the “City of Roses,” is renowned for its cooler climate and picturesque mountain vistas, which makes the drive more enjoyable. The winding roads around Taif offer stunning views, a refreshing change in temperature compared to Makkah’s heat, and a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes. This detour not only broke up the monotony of a long drive but also gave us the opportunity to experience the unique charm and hospitality of Taif before continuing on to the bustling capital of Riyadh.

Breaking the Trip in Riyadh Again: After our stay in Makkah, we planned to split the long drive back to Dubai by spending another night in Riyadh. This was a great opportunity to revisit our family friends there. Their generosity and warmth made the travel transition much more pleasant.
Visiting Family & Friends: It’s always nice to reconnect with loved ones, share stories from our travels, and enjoy some homemade cuisine. Once again, the hospitality was unparalleled—an essential part of Middle Eastern culture.
Long Hours on the Road: Ensure you have ample snacks, water, and audiobooks to keep you engaged during these stretches. Taking short breaks to stretch and refresh can make a huge difference in how you feel.

Reflections on the Trip

Spiritual Enrichment: Visiting Medina and Makkah is a unique, soul-enriching experience. The ambiance of both cities is unforgettable and mesmerizing, leaving a lasting impact on the heart and mind.
Hospitality and Friendships: From Riyadh to Medina and Makkah, the kindness and generosity we experienced made the trip all the more special.
The Value of a Road Trip: While flying might be quicker, there’s a certain charm to traveling by car—witnessing the changing landscapes, stopping at small towns for meals, and creating deeper bonds with your fellow travelers.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

Plan Your Route & Stops: Know your refueling points and choose safe, comfortable places to rest, especially if traveling with family.
Check Border Requirements: Ensure all documents (passports, visas, and car paperwork) are up-to-date. Confirm any current health or travel advisories.
Pack Essentials:Travel snacks, water, first-aid kit, and any prescription medications.Comfortable clothing and shoes.A small pillow or travel blanket for longer journeys.
Book Hotels in Advance: Staying close to the holy mosques is ideal for easier access, especially if you want to attend all prayers or have elderly family members.
Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of dress codes, prayer times, and local etiquette, especially in the Holy Cities.

Conclusion

Our road trip from Dubai to Medina and Makkah via Riyadh will forever remain a cherished memory. From the scenic desert routes to the soulful ambiance of the holy sites, every part of the journey was filled with reflection, gratitude, and joy. If you’re considering a similar trip, prepare well, embrace the adventure of the road, and most importantly, savor every moment in these blessed cities. Safe travels and may your journey be as enriching and memorable as ours.

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