I am thrilled to announce that Overland Journal has launched Episode One of a three-part original fly-and-drive video series titled Destinations: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Episodes two and three will be released later this week via the Expedition Portal YouTube channel on Wednesday, March 23, and Friday, March 25, 2022.
This series follows the adventures of Richard Giordano and myself (Desk to Glory) as we travel through Saudi Arabia in a rented Toyota Fortuner. In Episode One, we arrive in the Kingdom, follow a section of the 2022 Dakar Rally, and utilize our Fortuner to find the Al Naslaa Rock Formation and a nearby scenic desert camp spot akin to California’s Trona Pinnacles.
In September 2019, Saudi Arabia opened its doors to visitors from all over the world with its E-Visa program. Since then, the country has hosted numerous international events, including the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Extreme E Desert X Prix, music festivals, and sporting events, proving that Saudi is open to visitors from all over the world. While Saudi’s tourism industry is still growing, it was an absolute pleasure to visit during an unprecedented time in the country’s history. We marveled at the otherworldly landscapes, experienced the warmth of its people, and were touched by rich cultural practices. We hope you enjoy the ride.
About Destinations: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Episodes
EPISODE TWO: Driving through WADI AL DISAH (March 23, 2022)
Wadi Al Disah, located in the Tabuk province of Saudi Arabia, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Richard and Ashley catch up with their Swiss friends Marcel and Chiara of Overland Vagabond and explore the wadi.
EPISODE THREE: TABUK REGION to JEDDAH’S OLD TOWN (March 25, 2022)
The final episode of the series is chock-full of adventure. Richard and Ashley explore a deserted Hejaz Railway station, wander through the red coral buildings of Jeddah’s old town, track down an abandoned Catalina seaplane, and narrowly avoid involvement in a Planet of the Apes reenactment. A final night camped on the edge of the Al Wahbah Crater makes for the perfect spot to recount their three-week experience driving 5,500 kilometers through Saudi Arabia.
Want to read more about overlanding in Saudi Arabia?
Destination :: Al Ula by Ashley Giordano
Saudi Arabia: A Primer by Dave Connors
Caught Up in the Covid-19 Crisis in Saudi Arabia by Daniela Wagner
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