Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Al-Jawf gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from AJF to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Taxi/Ride-sharing, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of AJF:
- Can you legally enter Saudi Arabia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by Taxi/Ride-sharing, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the SAR. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Spend Your Time in Al-Jawf
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Al-Jawf, two standouts are:
- Marid Castle — You can see the main features in a short visit.
- Omar Ibn Al-Khattab Mosque — The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AJF, check out Airport Seating Area & Wi-Fi or Airport Mini-Mart & Gift Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Al-Jawf Domestic Airport into town:
- Taxi/Ride-sharing: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Eat
For food in Al-Jawf, local travelers recommend Ùطع٠اÙبÙت اÙدÙØ´ÙÙ (Damascus House Restaurant). If you have time for a second stop, Ùطع٠بÙت اÙÙÙد٠(Mandi House Restaurant) is another popular pick.
Back at AJF, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Express Snack Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Al-Jawf layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$17 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$36 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at AJF for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Al-Jawf or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at AJF can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Al-Jawf for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Need a Nap? Options at AJF
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at AJF.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Al-Jawf doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from AJF, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.