Visiting Abha 2025: Must-See Outdoor Attractions

Nestled at an altitude of 2,200 meters between the peaks of the Sarawat Mountains, Abha is an exceptional place to embrace the clouds and explore the mountaintops. As you wander through the city, you will feel like you have stepped into a world from hundreds of years ago when beautiful castles and palaces were built.

Traveling to Saudi Arabia, you will surely not want to miss the top-rated places to go in Abha.

Essential Things To Know Before Starting Your Journey In Abha

Where is Abha in Saudi Arabia?

Abha, the capital of Aseer Province in the southwest of Saudi Arabia, is a city that boasts a unique combination of natural beauty and historical charm. Abha is perched at an elevation of approximately 2,200 meters above sea level and boasts some of Saudi Arabia's highest mountain peaks. The temperate climate in Abha makes it a favored spot for domestic and global visitors alike. Distance from Abha to Mecca is about 454 km and roughly 757 km to Medina.

What to you know about Abha?

Abha's unique location makes it seem as if it is perched on the clouds, surrounded by tall, imposing mountains often covered in fog. The city is also known for its fertile plains and deep valleys that provide stunning natural beauty. The climate in Abha remains mild throughout the year, with temperatures rarely exceeding 35°C. In fact, the lowest temperature ever recorded in the city was −2°C. Abha also receives a decent amount of rainfall, particularly during the rainy season from February to April. This makes Abha a great destination for those loving natural greenery.

Abha is a favorite destination for all types of travelers

How far is it to Abha from Riyadh?

The Riyadh to Abha distance is around 856 km.

How many hours from Riyadh to Abha?

The average flight time from Riyadh to Abha is 1 hour and 40 minutes. The driving time from Riyadh to Abha is around 13 hours.

Alternatively, there is a direct bus available to travel from Riyadh to Abha. A coastal road links the city with Jeddah, and SAPTCO (Saudi Arabia Public Transport Company). Buses are available for transportation to and from other cities in the country. It takes about 14 hours to travel by bus.

Discover Top Abha Tourist Places To See With All Your Sense

Fatima Heritage Museum

Art is an integral part of the life of Aseer women, who were inspired by the region's nature and the rigid voids in their home's walls. They explore abstract art by extracting colors from nature and transforming them into bright patterns known as "Al Qatt Al Aseeri Art." This art form has been recognized by UNESCO as an intangible Saudi cultural heritage since 2017. The museum was established by Fatima Yafea, who collected everything related to the Aseeri women's heritage, including jewelry, traditional dress, and various products decorated with the art of Al-Qatt Al-Aseeri. While marveling at the paintings of Al-Qatt Al-Aseeri, visitors can ignite their desire to create their own artwork, and Fatima Yafea offers guidance on the most critical elements of Al-Qatt Al-Aseeri, its prominent colors, and how to extract them from raw nature. Don’t forget to buy your friends and relatives some souvenirs when you’re back from Fatima Heritage Museum.

The best place to visit in Abha, Saudi Arabia

Shada Palace

Exploring the traditional architecture of the Asir region is made possible by visiting the historic Shada Palace in Abha. Shada Palace, constructed in 1927, was originally the headquarters of the Emira of Aseer Province in Saudi Arabia. As one of the most significant heritage monuments in Abha, Shada Palace is an outstanding example of the traditional architecture of South Arabia and has inspired the design of the nearby Emira Palace. It's common for tourists to come here and see a variety of handicrafts, old household items, and artifacts displayed in one of the very few traditional buildings left in Abha. The palace underwent renovation work in 2017 and is now transformed into a museum. Visitors can expect to see a collection of old planting and household tools, coins, several manuscripts, and photographs of life in Abha during the second half of the last century.

Jebel Al-Akhdar - The Green Mountain

Are you seeking a refreshing mountain retreat? Then Jebel Al-Akhdar is the perfect getaway. The diverse and rich environment on the mountain roads will leave you in awe, and enjoying the panoramic views from the mountain tops will be the highlight of your journey. Jebel Al-Akhdar’s best-known export is rosewater, which is used in desserts and as a scent across the region. Traveling to this region, one can experience the breathtaking views of the mountains, small traditional villages, and rose-water distilleries.

Visitors can also explore the hidden wadis and terraces where apricots, pomegranates, walnuts, and roses flourish in the cooler, high-altitude temperatures. The ideal time to visit Jebel Akhdar is in March and April when the damask roses are in bloom, exuding their sweet fragrance that fills the air during early spring.

Jebel Al-Akhdar is a must-visit spot in Abha

Abha's Damside Park

If you find an escape from the big city, Damside Park in Abha is the perfect spot. Abha's Damside Park offers visitors a picturesque view of nature in perfect harmony. A visit to the park, just 2 km from the city center via King Abdulaziz Road, offers plenty of activities to enjoy. Simply taking in the lush green spaces, serene lake, and towering mountains surrounding, or taking a boat ride across the lake is an effective way to improve your mood. There are also designated areas for children to play and explore, including kayaking in the lake and other fun rides. When hunger strikes, the park offers a variety of dining options, including local and international cuisine, as well as cafes for a quick snack or a cup of coffee.

Al Nasb district

Al Nasb historical district is a charming neighborhood in Abha's heart. The rich heritage of Abha can be learned from its ancient alleys and unique construction techniques dating back hundreds of years. And among famous historical neighborhoods in the city, Al Nasb must not be ignored. This ancient district is nestled on the bank of the valley, named from the rocks placed underneath it to protect it from the valley. Despite being weathered for centuries, the ancient mud-built buildings have proven their durability and sustainability by keeping their traditional style of construction to this day. The buildings preserve a distinct Aseer identity, characterized by vibrant colors, ancient inscriptions, and the renowned traditional art of Qatt Al Aseeri.

If you love exploring ancient architecture, Al Nasb will be an ideal place to take you back to ancient times. You will be mesmerized by the intricate details and the “Alragaf” method of construction. You can also enjoy the neighborhood's natural beauty, with plants hanging from walls and scattered bushes emerging from between the rocks.

Al Nasb historical district is a charming neighborhood in Abha's heart

Hope the above information is useful for you in preparing for a trip to Abha Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia Immigration Services, with a team of experienced staff, will assist you in obtaining a visa to the country. Begin applying for a Saudi Arabia visa online, and you can possess a visa in a matter of a few days. If you have any inquiries about a Saudi visa, please contact us to get immediate support.