Habala

Habala, known as the 'hanging village,' is one of Saudi Arabia’s most dramatic destinations. It earned its name because it was historically accessible only by ropes ('habal' meaning rope in Arabic). Members of the Qahtan tribe built their homes on these steep cliffs to find refuge from invaders, creating a vertical community high above the valley floor. The architecture features traditional stone structures with the colorful accents typical of the Asir region. Today, a modern cable car carries visitors down to the ancient village, providing panoramic views of the rugged Sarawat Mountains. The area is characterized by deep canyons and misty peaks, offering a cool, refreshing atmosphere compared to the desert plains. Food enthusiasts can enjoy local highland specialties like haneeth, a slow-roasted lamb dish. Habala is located about an hour's drive from Abha. The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the high altitude keeps the air cool and the landscape turns lush after the seasonal rains. A visit to Habala is a step back in time, showcasing a unique chapter of Arabian history. The combination of its extreme location, cultural heritage, and memorable natural scenery makes it a favorite for photographers and adventurers alike. Exploring the abandoned ruins gives a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into a secluded past.

Nearby cities

Khamis Mushait

A vibrant commercial city in the mountains of the Asir Province, serving as a key military and business center.

Abha

The high-altitude provincial capital of Asir attracts many visitors with its mild climate and picturesque mountain scenery.

Al Namas

Al Namas, known as the 'City of Fog,' is situated high in the Sarawat Mountains, offering cool temperatures and lush greenery.

Faifa Mountains

The Faifa Mountains in Jazan are known as the 'Hanging Gardens' for their lush terraced farms and steep peaks.

Farasan Islands

The Farasan Islands are a protected marine paradise famous for their rich biodiversity and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Majkovi

An authentic stone village in the Dubrovnik hinterland, famous for its honey production and the preservation of Dalmatian traditions.

Slano

A picturesque coastal village in a deep, sheltered bay north of Dubrovnik, famous for its peaceful atmosphere and extensive olive groves.

Gromača

An authentic village in the Dubrovnik hinterland, known for its impressive cave and agrotourism.

Banići

A coastal village on the Dubrovnik Riviera, known for its quiet Janska bay and olive groves.

Osojnik

A historic village in the mountains above Dubrovnik, known for its cultural traditions and wide views over the Adriatic.

Trsteno

A historical village near Dubrovnik, world-famous for its Renaissance arboretum and giant 450-year-old plane trees.

Orašac

An idyllic coastal village near Dubrovnik, famous for its centuries-old olive groves.

Visočani

An authentic village in the Dubrovnik hinterland, surrounded by fertile fields and vineyards.

Suđurađ

A picturesque harbor village on the island of Šipan, known for its Renaissance summer residences.

Pobrežje

A rural village above Rijeka Dubrovačka, known for its tranquility and the view of the Franjo Tuđman Bridge.

History & landmarks

Rijal Almaa Village

A picturesque mountain village in the Asir region known for its unique, multi-story stone houses and colorful frescoes.

Elafiti Islands

An archipelago of 13 islands northwest of Dubrovnik, of which only three are inhabited.

Vidoški Fortress

Vidoški is a large fortress complex above the town of Stolac.

Large Onofrio's Fountain Dubrovnik

The Large Onofrio's Fountain was built in 1438.

Nature

Vjetrenica Cave

The world's most biodiverse cave hosts over 200 animal species, including the famous olm.

More places

Asir National Park

The first national park in Saudi Arabia, protecting a pristine mountainous landscape and rich flora and fauna.

Raydah Escarpment Reserve

A steeply sloping reserve in the Asir Mountains that is home to dense forests and rare bird species.

Sarawat Mountains

The highest and most extensive mountain range on the Arabian Peninsula, characterized by deeply incised valleys and steep cliffs.

Jabal Sawda

The highest mountain peak in Saudi Arabia, known for its cooler climate and dense juniper forests.

Wadi Bisha

One of the most significant valleys in the southwest, dominated by the construction of the King Fahd Dam, one of the largest in the Middl…

Popovo Polje

One of the largest karst fields in the world, located in southern Herzegovina.

Arboretum Trsteno

One of the world's oldest arboretums was established in the late 15th century by a noble family.

Dubrovnik Hydroelectric Power Plant

The Dubrovnik hydroelectric power plant at Plat utilizes the Trebišnjica River waters to generate electricity for Southern Dalmatia.