A long layover in Arar is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Arar Domestic Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 50 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Arar, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Saudi Arabia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Arar is roughly 50 minutes from RAE via Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in SAR. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Exploring Arar on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Arar, two standouts are:
- King Salman Park — A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
- Arar Mall — The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside RAE — 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:
- RAE Departure Hall Seating
- RAE Gift Shop
The Best Way Into Arar from RAE
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~50 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~70 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.
Best Bites Near RAE
For food in Arar, local travelers recommend Al Tazaj (Arar). If you have time for a second stop, Herfy (Arar) is another popular pick.
Back at RAE, RAE Airport Cafe is the go-to. Refreshment Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Arar:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $17 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $36 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Arar, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and RAE is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Arar 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.
Luggage Storage at RAE
Dedicated luggage storage at RAE may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Arar’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Rest Areas & Lounges
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 RAE.
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 Arar is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Arar.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.