Why Al-Baha is emerging as one of Saudi Arabia’s favorite tourist destinations

The 400-year-old stone settlement of Dhee Ayn, the name of which translates as “of spring,” a reference to the water source that runs through it. (Supplied)
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Updated 24 December 2022
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Why Al-Baha is emerging as one of Saudi Arabia’s favorite tourist destinations

  • New tourism and hospitality ventures are flourishing in Al-Baha thanks to Vision 2030 
  • Gulf visitors flock to Al-Baha for its mild climate, ancient settlements and proud heritage

AL-BAHA: Located in the Hejaz region of western Saudi Arabia, Al-Baha region is home to a wealth of natural wonders and ancient heritage sites, making it one of the Kingdom’s most attractive up-and-coming tourist destinations.

The bare, granite slopes of the Shada Al-Asfal mountains provide an awe-inspiring backdrop to an area rich in the distinctive culture and traditions of the Hejaz.

Dotted with ancient fortresses, villages and agricultural terraces dating back hundreds, if not thousands, of years, Al-Baha reflects Saudi Arabia’s long history and captivating natural beauty.

Situated about 310 kilometers from the pristine coastline of the Red Sea, and 2,270 meters above sea level, Al-Baha enjoys a mild climate all year round. Yet, despite its appealing location and many attractions, the area has remained largely unexplored by foreign visitors.




Mohammed Mosfir Almahfoz Al-Ghamdi, right, at his Al-Malad (or “Two Brothers”) Museum, named after its towers. (Supplied)

That is about to change. A new development was recently completed in Al-Baha as part of the Kingdom’s drive to diversify its economy away from hydrocarbons into sectors such as leisure, tourism and hospitality.

In September, the Heritage Commission of the Ministry of Culture unveiled the Dhee Ayn Museum. As the name suggests, it can be found at the 400-year-old stone settlement of Dhee Ayn, the name of which translates as “of spring,” a reference to the water source that runs through it.

Built atop a hill of marble, the village is surrounded by a breathtaking mountain range and the lush vegetation of Wadi Rash, where banana trees flourish and the scent of wild herbs and seasonal blossoms fills the air.

The multi-story homes in Dhee Ayn, which are built from large, flat stones, offer a window into the history of domestic life in the Arabian Peninsula long before the rise of nation states. From afar, the abandoned settlement almost appears to glow as sunlight reflects off its bright marble facades.




Al-Baha region is home to a wealth of natural wonders and ancient heritage sites. (SPA)

The village sits in an area known as the “region of 1001 towers.” The mountainside is littered with stone fortresses that once protected communities, plantations and travelers from bandits and rival tribes.

Situated along an ancient trade route, Al-Baha was long a popular destination for merchants and nomadic hunters, and offered one of the principal routes through the southern Arabian Peninsula to Makkah. Remnants of the ancient road can still be seen in the form of fragmented black-and-gray slabs.

Established as an administrative region in 1964, Al-Baha now includes six towns, of which the most important are the capital, Al-Baha City, Al-Mikhwah, Baljorashi and Al-Mandaq. The region is the ancestral home of Al-Ghamdi and Al-Zahrani tribes, and as of 2020 its population numbered 506,866.

Abundant in fertile soil, fresh water, forest and lush pasture, the region remains ideal for human settlement and has long been considered one of the most attractive parts of the Arabian Gulf.

In villages throughout the area, homes, businesses and places of worship are built from regionally sourced granite and basalt, decorated with quartz, and with roofs made of juniper wood covered with mud.

Construction methods are not the only traditions still celebrated by the region’s inhabitants. Al-Aqiq Museum, for example, contains a treasure trove of artifacts, jewelry, fashions and perfumes collected over the years by its owner, Sahla Al-Ghamdi.




Al-Baha City at night. (Supplied)

Visitors to the museum are greeted with dates and a cup of Arabic coffee, along with a performance of Ardah, the traditional Saudi sword dance. Female visitors can have their hands decorated with henna and try on some of the traditional robes and abayas that reflect the evolution of fashion in the region.

Other interesting attractions for visitors include Al-Malad, or Two Brothers, Museum, named after the siblings who built the two imposing towers that still stand there, originally to protect the village and store its food.

Museum owner Mohammed Mosfir Almahfoz Al-Ghamdi salutes visitors to the museum, which opened in 2020, with a volley of gunfire from a collection of antique rifles. The exhibits include photographs, books, weapons such as rifles and swords, traditional garments and cutlery that he collected over several decades, which offer visitors a glimpse of the region’s past and its cultural heritage.




Naser Alshdui, left, wears many hats: cave-tourism volunteer, bean-farm tour guide, researcher, historian, writer. (Supplied)

In the nearby town of Baljurashi, another gem awaits visitors: A stunning rural lodge owned by Sharifa Al-Ghamdi, a local woman who after years of teaching mathematics in Jeddah decided to return to Al-Baha and turn her home into a boutique hotel.

The property, which has been carefully refurbished to retain its traditional character and heritage, is decorated with colorful objects from across the region that she collected over the years. She said her thriving hospitality business would not have been possible but for the government’s national reforms in recent years.

“I wouldn’t have been able to decorate and refurbish this home had it not been for Vision 2030 and the increased freedoms given to women,” Al-Ghamdi told Arab News.

The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 reforms agenda is designed to transform social and economic life in Saudi Arabia. Among other things, it aims to make it easier to establish a businesses in a host of new sectors, and increase the empowerment and participation of women and young people in civic and commercial life.




Abundant in fertile soil, fresh water, forest and lush pasture, the region remains ideal for human settlement. (Supplied)

Al-Ghamdi said the reforms, including the easing of guardianship laws that previously required women to be accompanied by a male relative in public, allowed her to hire workmen, purchase the materials to repair and refurbish her property, and to welcome guests.

According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Kingdom aims to increase the sector’s annual contribution to national gross domestic product from the current 3 percent to at least 10 percent by 2030.

Over the past year, the Saudi government has launched several investment schemes designed to help bolster tourism in Al-Baha. In September 2021, the Kingdom’s Tourism Development Fund signed a deal with travel services provider Seera Group to develop a 200-room luxury resort in the region, featuring shops, restaurants and facilities for outdoor activities. The Raghadan Tourist Resort, the first sustainable tourism project in the region, is one of the key investment destinations identified by the National Tourism Strategy.

“Al-Baha’s rich history, cultural heritage, climate, topography and geographic location in the southwest of Saudi Arabia make it an attractive area for tourism and one that will further diversify the country’s offering,” a TDF spokesperson said when the plans were officially launched.




According to the Ministry of Tourism, the Kingdom aims to increase the sector’s annual contribution to national gross domestic product from the current 3 percent to at least 10 percent by 2030. (Supplied)

At the inauguration of the project in July, Abdulrahman Al-Fadley, the Saudi environment minister, said local authorities in Al-Baha had spent more than $152.5 million on various initiatives, including seven projects to construct dams and wells to secure drinking water supplies. There are also plans designed to promote afforestation and to protect vegetation.

Since the beginning of this year’s summer season, Al-Baha has welcomed a growing number of visitors from across the Kingdom who are keen to take advantage of the region’s picturesque landscapes and temperate climate.

One attraction that has proved especially popular is a lavender garden that is located in the middle of the Raghadan Forest Park in the cool Sarawat Mountains west of Al-Baha City.

To reach it, visitors follow a path of natural stone surrounded by waterfalls. It is illuminated by 270 decorative lamps and the flowerbeds are complemented by seating and kiosks, all of which provides an idyllic and peaceful oasis of calm.

The investment in Al-Baha certainly seems to be paying off. Like the many of the giga-projects taking shape along the Kingdom’s Red Sea coast, Al-Baha looks likely to become a must-visit destination for Saudi and foreign travelers in the decades to come.




The stunning scenery of the Hejazi mountains. (Supplied)

Much of its initial success is thanks not only to state investment, the region’s natural beauty and its ancient settlements steeped in history, but also to the commendable efforts of the local population to preserve and share their heritage, culture and traditions.

Thanks to them, Al-Baha clearly has the potential to become one of the Kingdom’s most celebrated attractions.


Brazil conference discusses Islamic education, identity

Updated 58 min 31 sec ago
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Brazil conference discusses Islamic education, identity

  • Forum highlights Saudi commitment to Shariah education, support for Muslim minorities

RIYADH: The 37th International Conference of Latin American and Caribbean Muslims is being held in Sao Paulo, Brazil, under the theme “Shariah education in Latin American and Caribbean countries, and its impact on preserving identity,” from Nov. 29 to Dec. 1.

Organized by the Islamic Dawah Center in Brazil in collaboration with the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, the three-day event brings together ministers, scholars, researchers and specialists from Arab, Islamic, Latin American and Caribbean countries.

The conference promotes Islamic education among Muslim minorities, the religion’s role in preserving identity and social cohesion, and addressing challenges facing Muslim minority communities.

Saudi Arabia’s presence reflects its commitment to supporting Islam and Muslims, promoting moderation and balance, and strengthening the connection of Muslim minority communities to Islamic values that foster harmony, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Awwad Al-Anzi, undersecretary for Islamic affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, represented the Kingdom and delivered the opening speech on behalf of Minister Abdullatif Al-Asheikh.

He said that education is the “foundation of virtuous deeds,” guiding correct beliefs and practices, and highlighted the role of Shariah education in clarifying concepts and combating ignorance.

Al-Anzi praised Saudi Arabia’s commitment to education, noting its mandatory education policy and substantial investment in the sector, which has positively impacted society.

He also highlighted the Kingdom’s focus on applied sciences and scholarships, enabling it to produce distinguished graduates across various fields.

Additionally, he underscored Saudi Arabia’s global contributions to education, including building schools and universities, offering scholarships to Muslim students and fostering scientific partnerships.

Al-Anzi reviewed the Ministry of Islamic Affairs’ efforts in spreading Shariah education worldwide through its cultural and Islamic centers.

Ahmed Ali Al-Saifi, head of the Islamic Dawah Center, expressed gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their steadfast support of Muslims in Latin America and the Caribbean, particularly in bolstering religious and educational institutions.

He highlighted the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs for its diligent oversight of mosques and religious institutions in the region.

Al-Saifi saids that the forum aims to address challenges in teaching Arabic and Shariah sciences, and establish Shariah and Arabic language departments in major universities to meet the growing demand for Shariah education.

He expressed hope that the conference would produce scientific recommendations and scholarly works that support its mission.

Federal Deputy Vicentinho Paulo da Silva delivered a speech on behalf of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, highlighting the respectful relationship between the government and Brazil’s Muslim community, and acknowledging their vital role in the country’s development.

He noted the strong ties between Brazil and Saudi Arabia, built on solidarity, sovereignty and mutual respect, highlighting Brazil’s high regard for Arabs, particularly through its relationship with Saudi Arabia.

Delegation leaders praised Saudi Arabia, represented by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, for sponsoring the event and enriching it with contributions from ministry experts and Saudi university professors.

Hassan Musa, deputy chairman of the Swedish Fatwa Council, expressed gratitude to the Saudi leadership for their efforts in serving Islam and Muslims, and promoting moderation worldwide.


Riyadh launches Middle East’s largest urban rail network 

Updated 30 November 2024
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Riyadh launches Middle East’s largest urban rail network 

  • $22bn, energy-efficient Metro system will be a world leader, official says

RIYADH: The first three lines of the Riyadh Metro will begin operating on Sunday, forming part of the largest urban rail network in the Middle East.

Riyadh Metro, which is a key pillar of Saudi Vision 2030, is a crucial step toward reducing traffic congestion in the capital, and improving quality of life for the city’s residents.

The first phase of the Riyadh Metro starts with three lines: the Blue line, connecting Olaya Street to Al Batʼha; the Yellow line, running along King Khalid International Airport Road; and the Purple line, covering Abdul Rahman bin Awf Road and Al-Shaikh Hassan Bin Hussain Street.

The Red line, covering King Abdullah Road, and the Green line, spanning King Abdulaziz Road, are both scheduled to begin operating on Dec. 15, while the Orange line, which covers Madinah Road, starts on Jan. 5, 2025.

The Riyadh Metro was launched 12 years after the project was announced in April 2012, when the Saudi Cabinet approved the implementation of the public transport project and formed a high-level committee to oversee it. Despite the challenges faced by the project, including the global pandemic, it was ultimately completed.

Contracts for the Riyadh Metro project were awarded in 2013 to three global consortiums, with a total value of about $22.5 billion (SR84.4 billion).

The project features several sustainable characteristics that promote eco-friendly transportation options. The metro system will employ energy-efficient trains and stations, as well as technologies such as regenerative braking to reduce energy consumption.

Additionally, some stations will be equipped with thousands of solar panels, and each metro station will rely on electricity sourced from renewable energy.

Maher Sheira, supervisor of digital infrastructure for the King Abdulaziz Public Transport Project in Riyadh, told Arab News: “Our target is to reduce traffic within the city by up to 30 percent. This goal is supported by the metro’s capacity to transport up to 3.6 million passengers daily, which is a challenging target, especially when compared to other cities that have struggled to transition car users to public transportation.”

Achieving this goal depends on several factors, including the city’s infrastructure, integration of various transport modes, and the overall complementarity of these services, he said.

“This project is one of the key initiatives that could help make these goals a reality.”

Sheira said that the launch of the metro and improvement of public transportation will not only alleviate traffic congestion, but also also play a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions.

“We all know that shifting from daily car use to public transportation can have a significant environmental impact,” he said.

“In a small study we conducted, we found that if 100,000 passengers switch from cars to public transport, it could save over 3 million trees annually. This number has the potential to grow even further.”

He said both the metro and the bus systems are integral parts of the King Abdulaziz Public Transport Program.

These systems are seamlessly integrated, ensuring a smooth and reliable experience for passengers. Once a passenger exits a metro station and boards a bus, they will use the same ticket and enjoy the same high level of service.

“To ensure quality, the design of both networks was focused on delivering first-class standards, with an emphasis on maintaining top-tier service throughout the entire journey,” Sheira added.

“The quality of service is evident throughout the system. You can see it at the stations, on the trains, and certainly on the buses and at the bus stops. We are committed to maintaining this high standard of quality and will continue to do so.”

Numerous factors have been taken into account to ensure the success and efficiency of the vast network.

“Our goal is to keep Riyadh at the forefront of global cities in terms of public transportation. This is our objective, and with determination, we are confident that we will achieve it, Inshallah,” he said.

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Inspiring story

The inspiring story of the Riyadh Metro began in 2009, led by a visionary king with determination and ambition for the future; the story’s hero is King Salman. 

The document was submitted by King Salman to develop the public transportation system in Riyadh:

My Lord, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz — May Allah preserve you. 

I am honored to inform Your Royal Highness that the city of Riyadh, which is witnessing significant population growth, urban expansion, and substantial economic prosperity, has started to experience severe traffic congestion on its main streets due to the ongoing rise in traffic.

Accordingly, the High Commission for the Development of Riyadh has developed a comprehensive and long-term plan to enhance the city’s public transportation system.

First: Establishing the backbone of the public transportation system through manufacturing an electric train.

Second: Implementing a bus network that covers all areas of Riyadh, with its services integrated with the electric train system. The network covers 708 kilometers and is also integrated with the local network within residential neighborhoods. 

The High Commission has fully prepared the engineering designs, technical specifications, and tender documents for this phase, paving the way for its implementation. 

Therefore, I kindly request Your Highness’s approval of this matter. May Allah preserve you, guide your steps, and grant you success. Peace and blessings be upon you. 

Chairman of the High Commission for the Development of Riyadh

Salman bin Abdulaziz

20/10/2009


A tapestry of cultures: Indonesian batik meets Saudi heritage

Updated 30 November 2024
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A tapestry of cultures: Indonesian batik meets Saudi heritage

  • Centuries-old art form of batik deeply rooted in Indonesian culture
  • Included on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage

RIYADH: Reporting on the Saudi International Handicrafts Week Exhibition (Banan) on Saturday, the Saudi Press Agency highlighted the Indonesian pavilion, which showcased the exquisite art of batik.

Indonesian artisans had creatively blended traditional batik techniques with motifs inspired by different regions of the Kingdom, “creating stunning pieces that seamlessly intertwine the two cultures,” according to the SPA.

The centuries-old art form of batik is deeply rooted in Indonesian culture, and is included on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. It involves a meticulous process known as wax resist-dyeing to create its intricate patterns. The designs often have cultural and religious significance, reflecting the deep connection between Indonesians and their environment.

The convergence of Indonesian and Saudi artistic traditions at Banan, which ended on Friday, “exemplifies the power of art to transcend cultural boundaries,” the SPA stated.

Dalia Alyahya, head of the handcrafts sector at the Heritage Commission, which organized the event, highlighted the significance of such cultural exchanges.

“Through art, we can bridge cultural divides and foster global harmony. Batik, with its rich history and enduring appeal, continues to inspire and connect people across the world,” Alyahya told the SPA.

Artists and representatives from more than 20 countries exhibited at the event alongside the Kingdom’s own talent.

Through Banan and other initiatives, the Heritage Commission “raises awareness about the importance of handicrafts as part of cultural heritage, ensuring they are preserved and passed on,” the SPA wrote.


Authorities bust drug smugglers across Saudi Arabia

Updated 30 November 2024
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Authorities bust drug smugglers across Saudi Arabia

  • Two citizens were arrested in the Hail region for selling amphetamine and methamphetamine

RIYADH: Saudi authorities recently made several drug-related arrests and confiscations across the Kingdom, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

In Asir’s Al-Raboah sector, Border Guard patrols intercepted 240 kg of qat.

Security patrols in Jazan arrested a citizen with qat hidden in his vehicle in Al-Aridah governorate.

The General Directorate of Narcotics Control arrested a citizen in the Northern Borders’ Tarif governorate with amphetamine.

The directorate also arrested a Pakistani resident in Tabuk for selling methamphetamine, a narcotic substance commonly referred to as “shabu.”

Two citizens were arrested in the Hail region for selling amphetamine and methamphetamine.

Two citizens were arrested in Asir for selling regulated tablets.

Preliminary legal procedures have been completed, and all seized items have been handed to the relevant authorities.

Security authorities reiterated their call for the public to report any information about drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions of the Kingdom.

Individuals can also contact the General Directorate of Narcotics Control at 995 or via email at [email protected].

All information will be treated with strict confidentiality.

 


Saudi Arabia arrests 19,024 illegals in one week

Updated 30 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia arrests 19,024 illegals in one week

  • The report showed that among the 1,212 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 73 percent were Ethiopian, 25 percent Yemeni, and 2 percent were of other nationalities

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 19,024 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

According to an official report, a total of 11,268 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 4,773 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 2,983 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,212 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 73 percent were Ethiopian, 25 percent Yemeni, and 2 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 122 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 22 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.