For travelers with a layover in Gassim, the proximity of ELQ to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 75 minutes via Taxis / Private Car Services, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of ELQ:
- 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 75-minute journey each way by Taxis / Private Car Services, 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 Get Into Gassim
From ELQ, the Taxis / Private Car Services gets you to Gassim in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxis / Private Car Services offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Gassim, budget roughly $33 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $15 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $8 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage at ELQ
Dedicated luggage storage at ELQ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Gassim’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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Gassim
If you head into Gassim, here are two things worth checking out:
Buraidah Date Market is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Al Oqailat Museum is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ELQ, check out ELQ Executive Lounge or ELQ Airport Shops to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Gassim, local travelers recommend Al Romansiah Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Shawaya House is another popular pick.
Back at ELQ, ELQ Airport Cafe is the go-to. Airport Express Bites rounds out your in-terminal options.
Taking a Break at ELQ
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 ELQ.
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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ELQ is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Gassim 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Gassim with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Gassim may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.