Asir: Peaks, Heritage and Nature

Jabal as-Sudah, the cultural tradition of Al-Qatt Al-Asiri and the hiking trails of Aseer National Park reveal different sides of Asir. When planning your stay, it helps to first consider the places and experiences that interest you most. Asir is a province with natural and heritage attractions; you can tailor your hotel stay to your own priorities.

Peaks, coast and orientation

At 3,015 metres above sea level, Jabal as-Sudah is the highest peak in Asir Province. The region’s geography also includes a 140-kilometre coastline along the Red Sea. Together, these two details place Asir between a distinctive peak and an extensive coastline.

Abha International Airport serves the province and is located in Abha, the administrative capital. Abha therefore provides a specific point of reference for planning your arrival.

Hiking trails and nature in Aseer National Park

Aseer National Park is a tourist destination in the as-Sudah Center. Its trails pass through misty valleys and are suitable for hiking, camping and climbing. The visitor center serves as a starting point for the park; check current operating details before your visit. The three activities offer different ways to spend time in the park, from hiking to camping or climbing.

The park also includes the al-Hadabah region, where birds of prey are abundant. Statistics available for 2021 list 300 wildlife species in Aseer National Park. This figure is expressly tied to the 2021 statistics. Along with the trails and wildlife, cable car rides are among the experiences visitors can enjoy in Asir.

Tradition and cultural sites

Al-Qatt Al-Asiri was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017. The traditional interior decoration, carried out by women, is considered an essential element of Asir’s identity. This makes Al-Qatt a distinctive way to explore the region’s culture: the focus is on a decorative tradition linked to regional identity.

Al-Muftaha Village is a cultural landmark and tourist destination that preserves Asir’s heritage. The village is home to the King Fahd Cultural Center and the Talal Maddah Theater. These three names offer different points of reference for a culture-focused visit: the village itself, a cultural center and a theater.

Rijal Heritage Village and its castles

Rijal Heritage Village is around 900 years old and comprises approximately 60 neighboring castles. Its architectural heritage also includes one of the fortresses, where the Alma Permanent Heritage Museum was established in 1985. The museum displays around 2,800 artifacts in twelve rooms. The village’s age, castles and museum make it a distinct focus for visitors interested in Asir’s historical heritage.

Rijal Heritage Village can be reached, among other routes, via the Aqaba-al-Samma route. It connects Abha City and Rijal Alma Governorate via the as-Sudah Center. When planning your hotel stay, you can weigh nature attractions in Aseer National Park against cultural sites in Al-Muftaha or Rijal Heritage Village as different priorities.

Discover more destinations: Tathilith, Al Wadeen, Bishah, Muhayil, Tanomah, Ahad Rafidah, Abha, Jizan.

For the overview of the wider trip: Saudi Arabia.