Jabal Radhwa

Jabal Radhwa is a prominent mountain massif in western Saudi Arabia, located about 75 kilometers northeast of the port city of Yanbu. It belongs to the Al-Hejaz Mountains and reaches a maximum height of 2,282 meters above sea level. The mountain is famous for its reddish color, which is due to its granite and igneous rock composition. Historically and culturally, Jabal Radhwa holds a special place in Arabic literature and poetry, often mentioned as a symbol of steadfastness and pride. The rugged slopes and deep gorges provide habitat for rare animal species such as the Nubian ibex and the Arabian leopard, making the mountain an important area for nature conservation. Despite the arid environment, there is vegetation of juniper and wild herbs at higher elevations, benefiting from occasional cloud formation. Climbing the mountain is considered challenging and provides spectacular views of the Red Sea and the surrounding Tihamah plain. Geologically, the massif is an example of the Proterozoic crustal blocks of the Arabian-Nubian Shield.

Nearby cities

Medina

The second holiest city in Islam is home to the Prophet's Mosque and serves as a central spiritual site.

Yanbu

A coastal city that is significant for its refineries and the major petroleum export port on the west coast.

Umluj

Often called the 'Maldives of Saudi Arabia', Umluj boasts pristine coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Al Wajh

Al Wajh is a charming coastal town featuring a historic old quarter and access to the Red Sea's most pristine coral reefs.

History & landmarks

Tayma

A legendary oasis city in northwestern Saudi Arabia with over 3,000 years of history.

Al Khaybar

Al Khaybar is an ancient oasis set amidst volcanic lava fields, known for its monumental stone structures and historic forts.

Mount Uhud

A historic mountain north of Medina where one of the most important battles in early Islamic history took place.

Prophet's Mosque

The second holiest site in Islam in Medina, built by the Prophet Muhammad, known for its green domes.

Quba Mosque

This brilliant white mosque in Medina is considered the first mosque built in the history of Islam.

Maraya Concert Hall

This incredible building in the Ashar Valley is completely covered in mirrors that reflect the desert landscape.

Elephant Rock

A massive red sandstone monolith near Al-Ula that has taken the striking shape of an elephant through natural erosion.

More places

Yanbu Industrial City

Yanbu Industrial City on the Red Sea serves as a major export point for Saudi oil and gas to the western world.

Al-Ula Old Town

An ancient oasis town with abandoned mud-brick houses.

Uhud Battlefield

The site of the famous Battle of Uhud between early Muslims and the Quraysh.

Quba Mosque

The first mosque ever built, founded by the Prophet Muhammad.

Hegra

An ancient Nabataean city with impressive rock-cut tombs.

Sharaan Nature Reserve

A protected area in the Al Ula region dedicated to restoring the natural desert habitats and wildlife species.

Harrat Rahat

One of the largest lava fields in the world, stretching south of the holy city of Medina and forming a black, rugged landscape.

Harrat Khaybar

A massive volcanic field in the northwest, dotted with craters, lava fields, and mysterious ancient stone structures known as 'kite gates'.