The 8 most famous mountains in Saudi Arabia: enchanting nature and rich history
International Mountain Day on December 11th of each year . This occasion was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003. The aim of this day is to highlight the importance of mountains in the global ecosystem, their vital role in providing fresh water, preserving biodiversity, and being home to ancient cultures and traditions.
In the context of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, Saudi mountains are receiving unprecedented attention, as they have been transformed from mere geographical features into global tourist destinations and centers of investment and sports attraction, thus enhancing the Kingdom’s position as a leading ecotourism destination in the region.
The Kingdom boasts a unique topography, encompassing towering mountain ranges and rare rock formations. Here is a comprehensive overview of eight of Saudi Arabia's most famous mountains:
1. Mount Tuwaiq: A symbol of Saudi ambition
Tuwaiq Mountain is one of the most prominent geographical landmarks in the Najd region. It is a narrow limestone plateau stretching for approximately 800 kilometers. The mountain gained significant national symbolism following Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's famous statement: "The ambition of the Saudis is like Tuwaiq Mountain." Characterized by its sharp edges and formations that resemble a ring encircling the desert, the mountain is a popular destination for hiking and exploration.
2. The Sarawat Mountains: The backbone of the Arabian Peninsula
The Sarawat Mountains are the longest mountain range in the Arabian Peninsula, stretching along the western coast of the Kingdom. This range is divided into several sections, including the Hejaz Mountains in the north and center, and the Asir Mountains in the south. These mountains play a vital climatic role in moderating the weather and attracting seasonal rainfall, and they are home to dense juniper forests.
3. Jabal Al-Sawda: A peak that embraces the clouds
Mount Sawda is located in the Asir region and is among the highest peaks in the Kingdom, exceeding 3,000 meters above sea level. Distinguished by its lush greenery and cool climate year-round, Sawda has become a cornerstone of Saudi summer tourism and is currently undergoing massive development projects to transform it into a world-class luxury mountain destination.
4. Almond Mountains... The white blanket in winter
The Al-Lawz Mountains are located in the Tabuk region of northwestern Saudi Arabia and are the highest peaks in the Madyan Mountains, reaching an altitude of 2,580 meters. They are renowned as the Kingdom's premier destination for snowfall during the winter months, attracting thousands of visitors annually who come to enjoy the unique winter atmosphere in the Arab world. The area is also rich in historical rock carvings dating back to ancient civilizations.
5. Mount Uhud: A witness to Islamic history
Mount Uhud in Medina holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims, as it is associated with the historic Battle of Uhud. A Prophetic tradition speaks of its virtues: "Uhud is a mountain that loves us and we love it." Distinguished by its red granite rocks, the mountain stretches from east to west and is a major landmark visited by pilgrims and Umrah performers seeking to experience the rich history of Islam.
6. Elephant Rock: Al-Ula's geological icon
Elephant Mountain is one of the natural wonders of AlUla Governorate. This massive sandstone mountain was formed by erosion and wind over millions of years, taking the shape of a giant elephant with its trunk touching the ground. This landmark has become a global tourist icon and an integral part of AlUla's cultural and natural identity.
7. Mount Hira: The place where revelation descended
Mount Hira, located in Mecca, holds immense religious significance as it houses the Cave of Hira, the place where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used to worship and where the first verses of the Quran were revealed. Visitors from all over the world come to climb it and experience the dawn of Islam.
8. Fifa Mountains... Neighbor of the Moon
The Fifa Mountains, located in the Jazan region of southwestern Saudi Arabia, are known as the "Neighbor of the Moon" due to their towering height and the mist that often envelops them. These mountains are famous for their verdant, circular agricultural terraces, built by the inhabitants over hundreds of years, and boast a unique diversity of plant life and a temperate climate, making them a breathtaking natural masterpiece.
