Car stuck in sand: Tragic end for two Saudis as desert trip turns deadly

Dubai: What began as a routine trip into the desert ended in tragedy for two young Saudis whose car became stranded in the dunes, leaving them without water under the punishing summer sun.

Authorities said the victims, identified as Hamoud Jifin Al Saadi and his friend Walid Khusheim Al Saadi, ventured into a remote area of wilderness between the provinces of Bisha and Tathlith, about 40 kilometers southeast of the Al Junaynah center. 

Their vehicle broke down and became stuck in sand, and despite repeated efforts to free it, they were unable to escape. With no drinking water on hand and temperatures soaring, both men died of thirst. 

Dr. Mohammed Ubaid Al Saadi, Walid’s uncle, told Okaz newspaper that the pair had tried to dislodge the vehicle before succumbing to the extreme conditions. 

“They went out into that desert area, but the car got trapped among the sand dunes. They tried to free it, but with no water and in the fierce heat, they could not survive,” he said.

Rescue teams and volunteer groups were dispatched to the scene, where they recovered the bodies and transported them to a local hospital. Funeral arrangements are now underway.