Hello - I'm a total newbie to this site and a recent 'retread' to Saudi, although most of my previous time here (13 years) was spent in the Eastern province.

I'm a really keen photographer and would like to get out to The Edge of the World to take some pics. I have a 4x4 (Brand new Yukon!) GPS and lots of previous desert driving experience.

A few Q's if I may?

1. Does anyone have good GPS co-ords for good spots for the EOTW?
2. Is it possible to drive solo? (I know it's a cardinal sin but hey..)
3. How far off road is it?

I'd really like to get out there at sunset or dawn so an overnight camp may be required.

Appreciate any replies!

Hey sqshman

Try http://www.riyadhrovers.com/ They've been around for ever - I went out with them a couple of times just before leaving KSA in '06.

Didn't have a GPS when I was there though - from memory it was not a very long a trip offroad though, mostly hard flat ground.

GPS with trackback would be very usefull as from memory the main route in and out ran alongside a serious drop off (to the RHS going in - although I guess there will be multiple routes) - Mafi mushcala in daylight, but care required if you are going before dawn or returning after sunset. Excelent place to camp - (no wood around for the fire obviously!)

Make sure you get a Letter of No Objection from the local Police before taking any photographs.

Hi
Why dont ypu come out camping with the Third Herd Hash group Nov 12 ..its at the edge of the world

If you read the book available from your local Al Jahir book store
Its called Desert Treks From Riyadh.
By Ionis Thompson.
Page 11-12 it has all the info you want in there.
with full map / details etc
i would scan and copy paste it all but i am just too tired .

That would be great - I'll have to check my schedule prior to comitting though - we will be warming up for the Dubai Air show. Who's the point of contact for the Hash group please? Could you PM the details to me please?

Hi all - thanks for your replies - appreciated.

Yes - I will attempt to get a letter of no objection re photos. Good call. I would hate to have my photo gear confiscated by an over zealous policeman!

I do actually have a copy of Desert Treks..... It's on my bookcase..... back in UK. (Will have to get another copy from Jarir)

One further question to those people who may have been there...

There are some in our proposed party who are contractually required to be in phone contact (Air Crew types). Can anyone confirm or otherwise the availability of a mobile phone signal in the area?

Once again - many thanks in advance for any replies.

Have a good day.

Hi
Thats interesting about gaining permission to take photos. We have many people taking lots of pics in the desert without any issues. Does this rule apply around the city area only...