The ancient village of Dhi Ain... a jewel of Al-Baha in an oasis of security and a camel festival
The Emirate of Al-Baha region made a remarkable and distinctive appearance during its participation in the “Oasis of Security” exhibition, organized by the Ministry of Interior as part of the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival activities. The Emirate presented a living model that reflects the historical and cultural depth of the region, taking the “Dhi Ain” archaeological village as a main icon for its pavilion, which attracted the attention of visitors and those interested in authentic architectural heritage.
A jewel of heritage in the heart of the desert
The Emirate's pavilion prominently featured the village of Dhi Ain, showcasing its intricate details through multimedia displays, visual presentations, and models. Visitors were introduced to the village's distinctive stone architecture, a testament to the ingenuity of the Saudi people in adapting the harsh mountainous terrain to build a sustainable civilization. The pavilion highlighted the harmonious blend of heritage buildings and the surrounding verdant terraced fields, making it a favorite destination for festival attendees.
Dhi Ain: A history spanning 400 years
This participation is significant due to the great historical value of Dhi Ain village, located in Al-Makhwah Governorate in the Tihama region of Al-Baha. The village dates back more than 400 years and is known as the "Marble Village" because it is built atop a mountain of white marble. It comprises dozens of closely packed houses, ranging from two to four stories high, in addition to its ancient mosque and defensive forts, making it an open-air museum that tells the stories of our ancestors.
Strategic and touristic importance
The importance of showcasing the village of Dhi Ain at national events such as the King Abdulaziz Camel Festival is not limited to the informational aspect only, but extends to include strategic dimensions that keep pace with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. The village is included in the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage, which makes marketing it at such large gatherings a vital step to enhance its position on the world tourism map, attract tourism investments to the region, and confirm the Kingdom’s richness in diverse archaeological sites.
Visitor interaction and the authenticity of the place
Visitors to the "Security Oasis" from various nationalities expressed their deep admiration for the exhibits and information about the village, emphasizing that the rich cultural heritage of Al-Baha reflects the authenticity of the Saudi people and their deep connection to their land. These efforts by the Al-Baha Governorate underscore its commitment to preserving national identity, protecting archaeological sites, and transmitting this ancient cultural heritage to future generations, thereby strengthening the concept of cultural tourism as a vital economic and intellectual resource.
