Cheapest Flights to Gassim
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About Gassim
Gassim, often referred to as the "Breadbasket of Saudi Arabia," is a fertile region located in the heart of the Kingdom, known for its rich agricultural lands, historic heritage, and vibrant local markets. Positioned in the central region of Saudi Arabia, Gassim benefits from extensive date farms, green landscapes, and a deep-rooted culture of hospitality. With a population of around 1.5 million as of 2023, Gassim offers a welcoming blend of tradition and modernity for travelers seeking an authentic Saudi experience.
The climate in Gassim is typically desert-like, with warm summers and cooler winters. The ideal time to visit is from October to March, when the temperatures are milder, and the weather is perfect for exploring outdoor attractions, enjoying local events, and experiencing the region’s cultural heritage.
UAE travelers can easily access Gassim through Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz Regional Airport, located close to Buraydah, Gassim's regional capital. The airport is serviced by Saudia, Flynas, and Flydubai, providing direct and connecting flights from major cities in the UAE, such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai, via Riyadh or Jeddah. This accessibility makes Gassim a convenient and appealing destination for Emirati visitors.
Known for its agricultural wealth, Gassim is especially famous for its high-quality dates, particularly the prized Sukkary variety, known for its sweetness and delicate texture. Local dishes include jareesh (cracked wheat cooked with meat or chicken) and matazeez (a dish of dumplings in a spiced meat sauce), both of which reflect the region's flavors. Visitors can enjoy these traditional specialties at local eateries or explore a selection of modern restaurants offering a mix of regional and international options.
Gassim's attractions highlight its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Buraydah Date Market, one of the largest in the world, is a must-visit for food enthusiasts and offers a vast selection of fresh dates and other local produce. The Al Bassam Heritage House, located in the historic town of Unaizah, provides a glimpse into traditional Najdi architecture and the customs of the region’s past. For a more immersive experience, visitors can explore the King Khalid Heritage Center, which showcases artifacts, handicrafts, and exhibits detailing Gassim’s cultural history.
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the varied landscapes, from the sand dunes of Uyun Al Jiwa to the green parks of Unaizah. The Al Asyah Camel Market is a unique experience for those interested in Saudi Arabia's camel trading traditions and reflects the area’s long history of trade and commerce.
For Emirati travelers, Saudi Arabia offers visa-free access to Gassim, making it a convenient choice for a quick getaway or a longer stay. With its inviting landscapes, rich agricultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Gassim provides a fulfilling experience for those looking to connect with the authentic traditions and serene beauty of central 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.
