Skip to main content
SATS
Blog · Seasonal

Esports World Cup in Riyadh: getting to the venue

The Esports World Cup in Riyadh usually runs for several weeks in the summer, so the easiest way to the venue is an air-conditioned, pre-booked car with a booked return. A ride of about 15 km across Riyadh costs from SAR 60 per car, and an hourly driver costs from SAR 80 per hour with a 3-hour minimum.

Updated · Saudi Arabia Taxi Services

When and where is the Esports World Cup?

The Esports World Cup in Riyadh is a global esports tournament held over several weeks, usually in the summer. Dates, the venue and ticket details are announced by the organisers each year, so check the official Esports World Cup information and your ticket for the venue and entrance before you book a ride.

This guide covers getting to the venue, getting back late, and transport for teams, creators and fan groups.

Why plan around the summer heat?

Riyadh summers are very hot, especially in the afternoon, so long walks between a car park, a bus stop and the entrance are hard work. An air-conditioned car to the nearest drop-off point keeps time outdoors short. Wait inside until the driver messages you that he has arrived.

Carry water, and plan to arrive with time to spare for queues and security checks. Our guide to Saudi weather by month shows what to expect in the summer months.

What does a ride to the venue cost?

Fares are per car and fixed before the ride, with no surge pricing. A ride of about 15 km is a typical cross-city trip; we quote the exact fare from your hotel to the venue. Rides between 00:00 and 05:00 carry a 20% night surcharge.

TripVehicleFare from
Cross-city ride, about 15 kmEconomy sedan, up to 3SAR 60
Cross-city ride, about 15 kmStandard sedan, up to 3SAR 70
Cross-city ride, about 15 kmFamily van, up to 11SAR 120
Hourly driverEconomy sedanSAR 80 per hour
Hourly driverSUV, up to 7SAR 180 per hour
Riyadh Airport (RUH) to central RiyadhEconomy sedanSAR 60

Several days at the event: hourly driver or daily rides?

If you go to the venue once a day and stay for the session, book a one-way ride and a fixed return each day. If your day includes the venue, a meal elsewhere and a meet-up at another hotel, an hourly driver is simpler, because the driver waits at each stop. Hourly drivers suit multi-day attendance.

Our hourly vs point-to-point comparison sets out when each option works out cheaper.

Arriving at King Khalid International Airport

King Khalid International Airport (RUH) is about 35 km north of Olaya, roughly 40 min by car. Terminals 1 and 2 handle international flights; tell us your airline and we meet you at the right terminal. The driver waits in the arrivals hall after baggage claim, and we track your flight, with 60 minutes of free waiting after landing.

The Riyadh Metro also serves the airport and suits travellers with light bags whose hotel is near a station. See our Riyadh Airport terminals guide for the layout.

Teams, creators and fan groups

  • Squads and staff: airport-to-hotel-to-venue planning, with coaches for the whole team.
  • Equipment: a cargo van takes 20 or more suitcases or cases, and the driver helps load; from SAR 160 per hour.
  • Fan groups: a family van seats up to 11; a group bus seats 22 to 50 with a luggage hold.
  • Talent and guests: Luxury / VIP cars with a suited chauffeur, booked by the hour.
  • Companies: a corporate account with one monthly invoice with VAT and a dedicated dispatcher.

Getting back after a late session

  • Book the return before you go in, with a time or a pickup window.
  • Agree a pickup point a short walk from the exit, away from the main crowd.
  • Save the driver's WhatsApp number and share your live location when you come out.
  • Ride-hailing apps work for a quick ride, but their prices change with demand when everyone leaves at once.
  • Women who prefer it can book a female driver in Riyadh, at least 12 hours ahead.

Riyadh between matches

On a free day, indoor and evening visits work best in summer. The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is good for the midday heat; allow two to three hours. The Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge is best at sunset or after dark. Our post on Riyadh in one day has more ideas.

Message us on WhatsApp or call +966 57 951 9804 to book.

Questions readers ask

How far ahead should I book?

Book as soon as you have tickets, especially for the busiest days. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before pickup, so booking early carries little risk.

Does the Riyadh Metro go to the venue?

That depends on the venue for this year's event. Check the organiser's travel information and the metro operator's route map, and book a car for the legs the metro does not cover.

Can you take us on to Al Khobar or Jeddah after the event?

Yes. Riyadh to Al Khobar is 424 km, about 4 h 15 min, from SAR 730 per car. Riyadh to Jeddah is 950 km, a full day by road, so most people fly.

Can we pay by card?

Yes. Pay by card or in cash (SAR) in the car, or by bank transfer or the STC Bank app (formerly STC Pay) before the ride. Corporate accounts are invoiced monthly.

Do your drivers speak English?

Drivers speak Arabic, and most also speak English or Urdu; many speak Hindi and Bengali. Tell us your language when you book and we match the driver.

Book your ride

Fixed per-car fares, licensed drivers, free cancellation up to 24 hours before pickup.