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"Road Authority": Two Vital Routes Connect Riyadh to Al Baha

Date of publication: July 23, 2026 15:49 KSA

Via an advanced road network to support tourism

The Kingdom has witnessed remarkable development in its road network, stretching over 73,000 km, enabling it to rank first globally in the road network connectivity index, according to reports from the World Competitiveness Forum, which contributes to enhancing connectivity between cities and governorates, serving road users, and facilitating their movement.

The Road Authority explained that the road sector represents a fundamental pillar and vital enabler for many other sectors, foremost among them tourism, noting that the Al Baha region has an advanced road network extending over 1,777 km, forming a vital artery that enhances the region's status as one of the most prominent mountain tourist destinations in the Kingdom. This network is part of the Authority's efforts to facilitate access for visitors and tourists to the dense forests, natural landmarks, and heritage villages that the region abounds in, allowing them to explore its natural beauty and ancient history.

The Authority stated that travelers by road from the city of Riyadh to the Al Baha region have two main different routes, varying in distance, travel time, and stops along the way, as part of facilitating road users' movement and providing multiple options to reach Al Baha. The first route, which is the fastest, starts from Riyadh passing through Bisha to Al Baha, with a length of about 877 km, and the journey takes about 9 hours. The second route passes through Taif governorate, with a length of about 1,010 km, and the journey takes about 10 hours. The Al Baha region, located in the southwest of the Kingdom, is characterized by unique geographical and environmental diversity, combining the lofty Sarawat mountain highlands and the lowlands of Tihama. The region features varied terrain including green-covered mountain peaks, deep valleys, and many natural forests, making it a major tourist destination.