Short answer
Abha is the cool, misty capital of the Asir highlands, known for green terraced mountains, heritage villages and a refreshing summer climate. It has its own airport (AHB); a private car or 4x4 is best for the mountains.
Key takeaways
- ✓One of the few places in Saudi with a cool, green summer.
- ✓Rijal Almaa's stone village is a heritage highlight.
- ✓Soudah is the highest area with cable cars and viewpoints.
Abha and the surrounding Asir region offer a completely different side of Saudi Arabia: terraced mountains, juniper forests, frequent summer mist and the heritage stone villages of Rijal Almaa. It's a favourite domestic summer escape, with cable cars, the Soudah heights and a cool climate.
Abha has its own airport (AHB). Within the region a private car or 4x4 is ideal for reaching mountain viewpoints and villages.
