Why Asir?
When the summer temperatures climb across Saudi Arabia, locals and visitors head for the mountains. Located in the kingdom’s south‑west, Asir Province is a cool escape—Abha sits at 2 270 m (7 450 ft) above sea level and enjoys summer highs of around 23–25 °C. Misty mountains, juniper forests and heritage villages make this region a green oasis. Recent tourism campaigns and new infrastructure have attracted more than 1.4 million visitors during the 2025 summer season. Here are ten destinations you shouldn’t miss.
1 – Al‑Soudah Park & Jabal Sawda
At about 3 000 m above sea level, Al‑Soudah (also spelled Soudah) is the highest point in Saudi Arabia. Dense juniper forests keep the air fresh and the temperature rarely exceeds 25 °C in summer. Visitors can ride a cable car up to the plateau, picnic in shaded parks or hike the trails that snake across the ridge. For thrill‑seekers, Al‑Soudah offers zip‑lining, paragliding and camping. The park is part of the Asir National Park, so wildlife sightings—especially birds of prey—are common. Time your visit for the Al‑Soudah Festival, where the Flowermen of Asir perform traditional dances and you can try local honey.
2 – Rijal Almaa Heritage Village
Recognised by UNESCO for its vernacular architecture, Rijal Almaa (also written Rijal Almaʿ) is a centuries‑old village built from slate and quartz. Its multi‑storey houses are painted with colourful geometric motifs, earning it the nickname “gingerbread village”. Once an important trade stop between Yemen and the Levant, Rijal Almaa now houses a museum that preserves artefacts and documents the region’s history. Wander the cobbled lanes, browse local craft shops and enjoy the dramatic mountain backdrop.
3 – Habala (The Hanging Village)
Perched on a cliff 55 km from Abha, Habala earned its name from the rope ladders (“habl”) that once provided access. Today a cable car glides down to the village, offering sweeping views of terraced fields and craggy valleys. The stone houses appear to cling to the rock face, and you can still meet members of the “Flower Men”—a local tribe known for their garlands of dried herbs and flowers. Visit early in the day to see clouds draping the cliffs.
4 – Asir National Park
Established in 1980, Asir National Park was Saudi Arabia’s first national park. It covers between 1 600 km² and 4 500 km² of mountains, valleys and coastal plains. The park’s high elevations create a cool, foggy climate with occasional summer rains. Visitors can choose from 67 campsites and 45 picnic areas, hike through juniper forests or ride a cable car up Jabal Sawda. Bird‑watchers come to spot eagles, herons and even the elusive Arabian leopard.
5 – Al Muftaha Art Village
In Abha’s historic district, Al Muftaha Art Village blends traditional Aseeri architecture with contemporary art. Mud‑brick buildings house art galleries, studios and museums, while a mosque is decorated with calligraphic graffiti. The weekly Tuesday Market fills the alleys with vendors selling handicrafts, spices and honey. Street artists paint murals that celebrate the region’s culture, making the village a vibrant creative hub.
6 – Shada Palace (Shadda Museum)
Built in 1927 as a royal residence, Shada Palace showcases distinctive stone architecture that narrows toward the top. After restoration, the palace reopened as a museum with four floors of exhibits ranging from household utensils and weapons to manuscripts and coins. It sits in the heart of Abha and offers insight into Asir’s domestic life during the early twentieth century.
7 – Shamsan Ottoman Castle
Dating back to the Ottoman era, Shamsan Castle overlooks Abha city from a rocky hill. The castle features stone and clay walls, well‑lit pathways and a courtyard that hosts occasional events. Visitors come for the panoramic city views and to learn about the fortress’s role in regional defense.
8 – Al‑Qatt Al‑Aseeri Museum (Fatimah Museum)
The art of Al‑Qatt Al‑Aseeri—vibrant wall paintings created by Asiri women—received UNESCO recognition in 2017. At the Al‑Qatt Al‑Aseeri Museum, visitors are greeted by fragrant herbs before entering rooms covered with bold geometric designs. The museum offers workshops where you can learn to paint your own patterns and a shop selling textiles and souvenirs. Opening hours are generally 11 AM–8 PM, with a late afternoon start on Fridays.
9 – Abha High City & Green Mountain
Abha’s High City (sometimes called “New Abha”) sits at the top of the Sarawat Mountains and combines cafés, restaurants and lookouts with sweeping views. Nearby, Green Mountain (Jabal Thira) is lit at night and accessible via a road that spirals up the hillside. According to recent travel guides, Abha’s altitude and location ensure that summer temperatures remain around 23–25 °C. Don’t miss the cable car ride from High City to the valley below or a cup of Saudi coffee at sunset.
10 – Fog Walkway & Abha Dam Lake
For a stroll above the clouds, head to the Fog Walkway near Abha. This elevated path winds along a ridge where mist from the valley often envelops visitors, creating a surreal experience—perfect for photos. A short drive away, Abha Dam Lake is a man‑made reservoir surrounded by parks and walking trails. Recent reports praise it as an ideal spot for relaxation and water‑based activities. Pack a picnic or rent a pedal boat to enjoy the cool breeze off the water.
Tips for Visiting Asir
- Plan for the weather: Even in summer, evenings can be chilly at high elevations. Bring a light jacket or shawl.
- Respect local culture: Many villages are conservative; dress modestly and ask permission before photographing residents.
- Try the honey: Asir is famous for its wildflower honey. You’ll find jars for sale in markets across the region.
- Explore nearby: If you have time, consider day trips to Taif (city of roses) or Al Baha; both offer cool climates and mountain scenery.
Image credits
- Photo of Rijal Almaa heritage village (featured image) by Richard Mortel – downloaded from Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0).
- Landscape of Asir Mountains near Habala by Aiman titi – downloaded from Wikimedia Commons (CC BY‑SA 3.0).
