If you’ve got a layover in Abha, don’t let it go to waste sitting at AHB. The city, in Saudi Arabia, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at AHB:
First, verify that you can enter Saudi Arabia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 60 minutes into Abha, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — SAR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some SAR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Abha from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Where to Leave Your Bags
You can store your luggage at Not available at the airport.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Abha as well.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Abha layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Abha.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Abha, two standouts are:
- Abha’s Green Mountain (Jabal Al Akhdar) — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- High City (A’sar Abha) — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside AHB — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Abha Regional Airport Executive Lounge
- Abha Airport Retail & Duty-Free
Food & Dining Options
In Abha
If you make it into town, Faisal Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Turkish House Restaurant.
Inside AHB
If you’re staying in the terminal, Abha Airport Fast Food (e.g., Al Baik) is your main option. Subway Abha Airport works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AHB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Abha and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, AHB has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Abha exploring the streets or relaxing at AHB, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.