Saudi Traveler Drives 9,000 km in a Toyota Hilux From Saudi Arabia to Norway to See the Northern Lights

Instead of booking a flight, Saudi traveler Malik Al-Sultan decided to reach the Northern Lights by car. He set off from Saudi Arabia in his Toyota Hilux 4×4 on an overland trip of about 9,000 km across 19 countries, arriving in early 2026 in Bodø, northern Norway, to watch the green lights he had dreamed of.

The trip by the numbers

• Distance: about 9,000 km (5,600 miles)
• Countries: 19
• Departure: December 20, 2025
• Driving time: about three weeks
• Preparation: a year of planning and five weeks readying the truck and paperwork
• Cost: about $12,300 for fuel, food and hotels
• Lowest temperature: -21°C

From Gulf heat to Arctic snow

The route ran from Saudi Arabia through Kuwait and Turkey, then into Europe via Serbia, Italy and Germany, before heading north through Sweden to Norway. Along the way Malik changed his plans and crossed to the UK, spending a few days in London because he liked the atmosphere.

Closer to the Arctic Circle everything changed: snow-covered roads, blizzards and temperatures down to -21°C. Throughout the trip Malik kept his traditional Gulf dress, the thobe and shemagh, even while standing under the aurora.

The truck: Toyota Hilux double cab

The real hero of the trip was a Saudi-plated Toyota Hilux 4×4 pickup, a truck known across the Gulf for reliability and toughness. Malik fitted it with a bed canopy and roof cargo, simple upgrades that suit a long trip where the driver needs space for luggage and gear.

The arrival

In Bodø the dream came true, with green and purple auroras lighting up the sky over the snowy mountains. Malik told Fox News that seeing the lights made the whole journey worth the trouble.

Tips for a road trip from the Gulf to Europe

• Get a full inspection before you leave: battery, brakes, coolant and oils.
• Fit proper winter tires before entering Scandinavia.
• Prepare vehicle transit papers and international insurance for every country on the route.
• Pack winter clothing and emergency gear such as a snow shovel and tow rope.
• Plan fuel stops and overnight stays in advance, especially in remote areas.

Would you take your daily driver on a road trip this long? Tell us what you think.

Photos: traveler Malik Al-Sultan @_malik422. Source: Fox News.