Search flights to Gassim

About Gassim

Gassim, often referred to as the "Breadbasket of Saudi Arabia," is a fertile oasis located in the heart of the Kingdom, renowned for its agricultural richness, cultural heritage, and bustling trade. Situated in the central region, Gassim enjoys a unique environment that supports the production of dates, citrus fruits, and grains, making it a vital agricultural hub. With a population of approximately 1.5 million as of 2023, Gassim combines traditional charm with modern conveniences, offering visitors a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Gassim experiences a desert climate, with warm summers and cooler winters. The best time to visit is between October and March, when temperatures are mild, and the weather is perfect for exploring the city’s attractions, visiting its traditional souks, and experiencing its natural beauty.

Travelers to Gassim can fly into Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Regional Airport, located about 30 kilometers from the regional capital, Buraydah. The airport provides domestic and international flights via airlines like Saudia, Flynas, Flyadeal, and Nile Air, connecting Gassim to major Saudi cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, as well as nearby countries like Egypt and the UAE. For global travelers, connecting flights from Riyadh or Jeddah offer convenient access to Gassim.

As a leading agricultural region, Gassim is known for its high-quality dates, particularly the Sukkary variety, which is prized throughout Saudi Arabia. Traditional dishes like jareesh (cracked wheat with meat or chicken) and matazeez (dumplings with meat and vegetables) highlight the region’s flavors and agricultural bounty. Visitors can savor these local specialties at traditional restaurants or explore a variety of international dining options.

Gassim’s attractions reflect the area’s deep cultural roots and natural appeal. The King Khalid Heritage Center in Buraydah offers a journey through the region’s history, showcasing artifacts, traditional attire, and displays on the evolution of agriculture. Al Bassam Heritage House, a historic home in Unaizah, provides a glimpse into the traditional Najdi architecture and lifestyle. The region is also famous for its traditional markets, particularly the Buraydah Date Market, one of the largest in the world, where visitors can explore the diversity of dates and other agricultural products.

Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate Gassim’s natural landscapes, from the sand dunes of Uyun Al Jiwa to the verdant parks of Unaizah. The Al Asyah Camel Market is another unique experience, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of trade and camel herding in the region. In spring, the Desert Festival in Buraydah celebrates the region’s cultural heritage with camel races, falconry, and artisan markets.

For international travelers, Saudi Arabia’s e-visa system simplifies the process of visiting Gassim. Applicants need only a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and a return ticket. Once the visa is secured, visitors can immerse themselves in the traditions, hospitality, and natural beauty that make Gassim a unique and enriching destination in Saudi Arabia.

Transportation to Gassim City Center from Airport

Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz Intl. Airport

Gassim Airport, which is an important transportation center in the center of Saudi Arabia, is also known as Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz International Airport. The distance between the airport that is connecting Gassim and other Saudi Arabian cities with regular flights and the center of Buraidah city is about 27 kilometers. In order to reach the city center from Gassim Airport, you can take one of the white colored taxis waiting in front of the terminal. You can rent a car by visiting the offices of the local rental companies located in the terminal or take advantage of the private transfer options near Gassim Airport. Depending on which option you prefer, your journey from the airport to the city center would take about 25-30 minutes on average.

Taxi 

In front of the Gassim airport terminal, white colored taxis are available for passengers coming to the city and willing to travel to the center. When traveling directly to the city center by taxi from Gassim Airport, you can enjoy direct access to your desired destination without having to make any transfers. Air-conditioned taxis can also be considered as an extremely comfortable option given the weather conditions in the city which can be extremely hot. The price you pay when you take a taxi is determined by the taximeter in the taxi, and as you move away from the airport, the taxi fare also increases depending on the distance. You may have to pay a little more if you take a taxi late at night or during official holidays.

Car Rental

If you want to get to the city center from Gassim Airport, you can also rent a car from local rental companies in Gassim. Moreover, car rental rates at the airport are not high, just like in the city and the whole country, and thus traveling to the center by renting a car can be preferred as a reasonably priced alternative. At Gassim Airport you can rent a car with the features you want from local rental companies by finding some of their offices. If you rent a vehicle from the airport, you can leave it for a while at the Gassim Airport car park and then travel to the city center.

Private Shuttles

Travel by means of private transfer companies is often preferred in Gassim, like many other cities in Saudi Arabia. Before you arrive at Gassim, you can make your reservation online or by telephone and have your shuttle ready at the exit of the airport terminal. Private shuttles come from Gassim Airport to the center and also provide convenience to passengers with excess luggage. Using the shuttles, you can take advantage of the convenience of direct access to any point of interest in and around the city center.

Weather in Gassim

DayMin - Max
SundayMin 7ºC - Max 17ºC
MondayMin 5ºC - Max 18ºC
TuesdayMin 13ºC - Max 24ºC
WednesdayMin 10ºC - Max 22ºC
ThursdayMin 14ºC - Max 25ºC

Frequently Asked Questions

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