Where We Are Going Today: Polaris North, an outdoor adventure in Riyadh

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Polaris North takes hikers to the King Khalid Royal Reserve in Thumamah, to explore the region’s pristine natural beauty and diverse wildlife. (Supplied)
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Polaris North takes hikers to the King Khalid Royal Reserve in Thumamah, to explore the region’s pristine natural beauty and diverse wildlife. (Supplied)
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Polaris North takes hikers to the King Khalid Royal Reserve in Thumamah, to explore the region’s pristine natural beauty and diverse wildlife. (Supplied)
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Polaris North takes hikers to the King Khalid Royal Reserve in Thumamah, to explore the region’s pristine natural beauty and diverse wildlife. (Supplied)
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Updated 29 January 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: Polaris North, an outdoor adventure in Riyadh

Polaris North in Riyadh offers an ideal way to connect with nature and experience some tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. This hiking group provides a tailored outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway.

Polaris North takes hikers to the King Khalid Royal Reserve in Thumamah, to explore the region’s pristine natural beauty and diverse wildlife.

The first adventure package, aptly named Polaris Hike, is an opportunity to experience the fertile landscapes of Najd along varied trails. Guided by experienced locals, the routes traverse mountains and valleys in an area that has remained protected for 50 years.

The experience includes walking along deep valleys and towering peaks, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the area’s natural history and wildlife.

To keep energy levels up, fresh fruit and water are provided. Additionally, there is access to Polaris North’s camp facilities, where games are played that create a festive atmosphere.

For a more relaxed experience, the Polaris North camp offers a serene environment to unwind amidst nature. Here, indoor sessions can be enjoyed with stunning views. There is also comfortable outdoor seating for basking in the winter sun.

The spacious Bayt Al-Sha’ar tent adds a touch of culture to the experience.

For a private and luxurious retreat, there is also a VIP package offered. The entertainment options include a large screen for movies and shows, a gaming console, and hot drinks around a cozy fire.

Prices range from SR150 ($40) to SR865, making the experience widely accessible.

Whether it is adventure, relaxation or luxury being sought, there is something for everyone at Polaris North.


Writers boycott Adelaide Festival after Randa Abdel-Fattah is dropped

Updated 09 January 2026
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Writers boycott Adelaide Festival after Randa Abdel-Fattah is dropped

DUBAI: A wave of writers have withdrawn from the Adelaide Festival’s Writers’ Week, prompting organizers to take down a section of the event’s website as the backlash continues over the removal of Palestinian Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah from the 2026 program.

The festival confirmed on Friday that it had temporarily removed the online schedule listing authors, journalists, academics and commentators after participants began pulling out in protest of the board’s decision, which cited “cultural sensitivity” concerns following the Bondi terror attack.

In a statement posted online, the festival said the listings had been unpublished while changes were made to reflect the growing number of withdrawals.

By Friday afternoon, 47 speakers had already exited the program, with more believed to be coordinating their departures with fellow writers.

High-profile figures stepping away include Helen Garner, Chloe Hooper, Sarah Krasnostein, Miles Franklin Prize winner Michelle de Kretser, Drusilla Modjeska, Melissa Lucashenko and Stella Prize-winning poet Evelyn Araluen.

Best-selling novelist Trent Dalton also withdrew from the event. He had been scheduled to deliver a paid keynote at Adelaide Town Hall, one of the few Writers’ Week sessions requiring a ticket.