Abha City Guide

General Information / Guide

Abha is the capital city of the Asir Region in Saudi Arabia, located around 2,270 meters above sea level, in the southwestern part of the kingdom between the peaks of the Sarawat Mountains. It is one of the most scenic cities in the Kingdom which attracts numerous local and international tourists annually with its breathtaking natural beauty. Although it has significant cultural and historical heritage, it stands out with its unique nature and numerous activities for thrill seekers.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Abha experiences a Subtropical Highland Climate, with an average temperature of around 20-24 °C. Due to being at high altitudes, spring is ideal for traveling to Abha, as the temperature is around 25 °C during spring, with a minimum of 20°C. Meanwhile, during winters, temperatures can drop to a low of 10°C, with a colder and semi-arid climate.

How to Get There

Abha International Airport, located around 16 km from the city center, is accessible via direct and connecting flights from various locations. To reach the city center, travelers can opt for taxis or airport shuttles, both taking approximately 20 minutes.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

While in Abha, you should try the traditional food of the Asir region, like Heneeth, Tasabea, Mashgotha, Miva bread, and Aseeda. If you fancy international cuisine, Indian Nights is great for authentic Indian dishes while Milos Restaurant offers delicious Greek meals. Meshraq, Alkarkand, and Tonir are also among the favorites in Abha. Do not forget to try honey, as it is historically part of the culture and is deliciously added to most traditional dishes.  

Important Places / Places to Visit

High City: A venue that offers numerous activities and is open from early hours till 02.00. You can enjoy restaurants, cafes, parks, musical nights, children's playgrounds, and more.

Shamsan Castle: A historical site that is ideal for history and culture enthusiasts, just ten minutes from the city center.

Asir National Park: Saudi Arabia’s first national park, stretching along 1,600 square kilometers, with more than 300 different bird species, 67 campsites, wilderness areas, and 45 picnic areas.

Rijal Almaa Museum: Located around 1,5 hours from the city center, this is a 1000-year-old heritage village. Ideal for history, culture, and nature enthusiasts as presents lush greenery and unique buildings.

Abha Dam Lake: Abha Dam Lake stretches along 300,000 square meters with pristine surroundings. You can also visit Abha Palace Hotel, the new Abha Resort, and take a cable car from the resort to Green Mountain.

Fatima Museum: Officially known as Fatimah’s Museum of Aseeri Woman’s Heritage is a museum registered in the UNESCO List. You can learn more about the journey and history of Saudi women of Aseer.

What to Do

Abha has so much to offer, especially if you love nature and outdoor sports like mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, paragliding, ziplining, ATV riding, camping, and more. With an altitude of more than 2200 meters above sea level, you can enjoy the pristine mountains and stunning views during excursions in nature parks like Aseer National Park, Abha Airport Park, Al Masqi Park, Abha Dam Park, Habalah Touring Park, and more. For culture and history enthusiasts, there are museums, like Fatima Museum and Al-Raqdi Museum, and heritage districts like Al-Basta and Al Nasb. If you like shopping you can visit Al Rashid Mall, and Aseer Mall, which are ideal for families, or traditional souks like Souk Al-Nesa, Souk Al-Thulatha, and Souk Al-Khanajer.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Abha doesn't have a vibrant nightlife due to the prohibition of alcohol in the city. Nevertheless, you still can enjoy its growing entertainment scene with numerous cafes, restaurants, cinemas, and international restaurants where you can have mocktails or authentic Arabic coffee.

Shopping / What to Buy

You can find souvenir shops throughout different parts of Abha, but if you want the most authentic experience, try traditional souks. If you want daggers and swords, or handcrafted items made of gold or silver, check out Souk Al-Khanajer. For traditional clothing, trinkets, jewelry, houseware, and more visit Souk Al-Nesa. On Souk Al-Thulatha you can find spices, locally produced honey, dates, aromatic plants, and many other food products.

Festivals/ Events

January: Qemam International Festival for Mountain Performing Arts

July - September: Abha Festival

September: Flowerman Festival

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

22 February - Saudi Founding Day

23- September - Saudi National Day

Eid Al-Fitr

Eid Al-Adha

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia.

Demonstrating public displays of affection with your partner is discouraged.

Dressing modestly is encouraged, especially when visiting public and religious places. Visitors should adhere to clothing guidelines that include covering their shoulders and knees.

Transportation

In Abha, the best and most commonly used transportation method is taxis to get around the city. Rented cars are also highly popular, and cable cars are used as well.