Abha
The scenic capital of the Asir province in the southwest, Abha is a mountain town located at the height of 2,200 meters above sea level. Surrounded by tall mountains, the city is often covered in fog. For most of history, the region was cut off from the rest of the world due to its mountainous terrain resulting in a lesser touristy, quiet destination though its popularity is slowly growing due to government promotion of tourism. Abha is now reachable by an expressway along the west coast, connecting it with Jeddah. With its milder climes, ancient history, and tall peaks, it is growing popular as a destination to enjoy adventure, sightseeing, and fresh mountain air. The Kingdom’s tallest mountain, Jabal Sawda, is right next to the city and visitors can take a cable car to the summit. This is one of several cable cars available to take visitors around the area to different peaks. Another notable site is Shada Palace, one of several hilltop fortresses seen around the city. The local homes are also a feature: these traditional residential units are made with clay, stone, and wood and are often painted in bright colors. Cultural events are becoming more frequent, with different sports, festivals, and exhibitions, along with poetry and musical performances, being held in the city.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Asir National Park
This is the first national park to open in the country and features an area of around 620 square miles. For visitors, there are 67 campsites and 45 picnic sites in parts of the park, though the majority of the land remains wilderness and is home to over 300 species of birds.
Green Mountain
Another area accessible by cable car is Green Mountain (Jabal Thera), named for the grass and green lights that decorate its facade. Previously used as military headquarters, the mountain was repurposed for recreation and features restaurants, coffee shops, and an internet cafe. Visitors are welcome to either hike to the top of the mountain or take a cable car and enjoy the scenic beauty of the valley below, as well as the cool mountain air, best enjoyed paired with a hot drink.
Habala
This small village is perched on the side of a very steep cliff face and used to be accessible only by rope ladder. Eventually a cable car was built to provide better access to the traditional village so visitors could enjoy the mountain views. Consequently the original inhabitants relocated to a more modern village below and Habala remains solely as a heritage village for tourism.
Shada Palace
Dating back to 1927, this mud-walled palace remains a remarkable example of traditional Arabic architecture amidst a modern city. Converted into a museum, the palace houses a variety of local handicrafts and household items.
Saudi Arabia Regions
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With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
48 Hours in Al Ula
- Author
- Travelogues
Located deep in the desert in the northwest of the country, Al Ula is one of Saudi Arabia’s most beguiling destinations and a potential hotspot for travelers now that the country is opening up.
The Oryx of Arabia: Back from the Brink
- Author
- Travelogues
Lost in a maze of dunes and modernity is wildlife, creatures that live a life in search of an oasis –
animals like the majestic oryx.
Muscat Get-Away
- Author
- Trinity Nguyen
Oman is an Arabic country in the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, a historically strategic location – and not one that is commonly on the radar for many travelers. However, with increasing flight routes and its proximity to the UAE travel hub, travel to the peaceful coastal sultanate is easier than ever and worth a look.
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