The largest state on the Arabian Peninsula, occupying more than 80% of the territory, is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In the north, this country borders on Jordan. The eastern neighbors of the giant country are Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Yemen and Oman are adjacent to Saudi Arabia on the south side. This state is washed on both sides by the sea: Red in the west, the Persian Gulf - from the northeast.
Along the western coast of the Arabian Peninsula, there is a chain of magnificent Al-Hejaz mountains. Their height reaches 3000 m. Their foot attracts numerous tourists with a mild warm climate and a unique variety of greenery. The eastern and southern parts of the country are occupied mainly by deserts, and are inhabited by nomadic Bedouins.
Saudi Arabia is a land of numerous Muslim mosques. It was here that one of the most numerous religions in the world, Islam, was founded.
Capital |
Riyadh |
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Population |
26 534 504 people |
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2,149,000 km² |
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Population density |
12 people / km² |
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arab |
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Religion |
sunni Islam, Wahhabism |
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Form of government |
absolute theocratic monarchy |
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saudi rial |
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Timezone |
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International dialing code |
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Domain zone on the Internet |
Saudi Arabia was opened to tourists just recently, no more than three years ago. She is pleased to offer her guests the unique flavor of the Arabian deserts, as well as numerous shrines muslim world... Ancient traditions of the East and modern furnishings make this country attractive for lovers of non-traditional recreation. Diving has become a feature of the country's tourism business, which allows you to explore the whole variety of the unique underwater world of the Red Sea. Camel beauty pageants have no analogues in the whole world. And participation in the famous falconry will give you new impressions.
Climate and weather
The climate in Saudi Arabia is unusually arid and dry. Arabian Peninsula is one of the few places where the temperature in summer never drops below +50 ° C.
The north of the country belongs to the subtropical climatic zone, and the south to the tropical. Snow can be seen here only in the mountains, and even then not every year. In January, the air temperature does not exceed +20 ° C in cities and deserts, and on the coast Red sea the air warms up to +30 ° C.
Saudi Arabia gets unusually hot in summer. In the shade, the air temperature ranges from +35 ° C to +45 ° C. But in deserts, due to the ability of sand to give off heat very quickly, you can also encounter low temperatures, sometimes reaching 0 ° C. For this area, sudden changes in day and night temperatures are quite common.
Rainfall in Saudi Arabia falls unevenly. At the same time, in the east and in the center of the country, the rainy season lasts from February to April, and in the west - exclusively in winter (from late November to early February). In winter, thick fogs are often observed in the mountains of the Arabian Peninsula.
Tourists to visit Saudi Arabia prefer to choose the periods from the first days of September to mid-October, as well as at the end of spring. The temperature is not too high here throughout May, and the sea wind brings a little moisture into the fairly dry air.
Nature
The nature of Saudi Arabia is truly unique. On the territory of this state, you can find huge sultry deserts, high cool mountains, and wonderful warm sandy beaches.
Beautiful and powerful mountains rise along the coast of the Red Sea Hijaz... The height of some of them reaches three kilometers. In the same area is one of the most attractive resorts in the Middle East - Asher... It attracts tourists from all over the world with its rather mild pleasant climate and unique vegetation. This resort is preferred by lovers of ecotourism.
The eastern part of the Kingdom is completely covered with deserts. The largest of these is Rub al-Khali, which occupies almost the entire south and part of the southeast of the country. It is the invisible border of Saudi Arabia with Oman and Yemen. The total area of \u200b\u200bdeserts in this country reaches almost 1 million km 2. Most often, such deserts are inhabited by nomadic Bedouin tribes.
sights
Saudi Arabia, as a strictly Muslim country, is notable for tourists for its religious relics and shrines. The most attractive to visit are famous Arab cities such as the capital Riyadh, Mecca, Medinaand Jeddah.
The most visited city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is its capital Riyadh... The most popular attraction of this city is the citadel of old Riyadh, which houses Museumdedicated to King Abdel Aziz. Also widely known Royal Center, owned by the Prince of Saudi Arabia, it is the tallest building in the entire Kingdom. This huge complex includes a large number of residential apartments, offices, fine restaurants and chic shopping centers.
Of course, not a single stay in Saudi Arabia is complete without visiting a Muslim shrine - the city Mecca... In this area, the founder of the most numerous religion in the world, the prophet Muhammad, was once born. In Mecca there is a well-known from 1570. Sacred Mosque Haram... Its area is over 300,000 km 2. This majestic building of Arab architecture is completely lined with beautiful lilac marble and includes nine minarets, each of which reaches almost 95 meters in height. The famous Haram can simultaneously accommodate up to 700 thousand people.
There is a sanctuary in the center of Haram Kaaba... Its corners are oriented to the cardinal points. The eastern corner of the Kaaba stands out among others for the presence of the Black Stone. Some scientists believe it is a meteorite. But Muslims hold a different opinion that it was this stone that God gave to Adam expelled from paradise after his repentance. Tradition says about the white color of the stone, which, after the touch of sinners, he changed to black.
Mecca is famous all over the world for its many shrines of Islam. During the Hajj this city is visited by over two million people from all over the world. People who practice other religions cannot enter this holy place.
Another major attraction in Saudi Arabia is the national asir park, which is located near the city of Jeddah. Its unique vegetation and peculiar fauna attract many ecotourists.
Nutrition
The national cuisine of Saudi Arabia includes the culinary traditions of all countries of the Middle East. The staple foods of local Arabs are lamb, poultry, lamb, eggs and fish. The traditional side dish for these dishes is rice with raisins. Traditional Arabian dishes include all kinds of soups (rice, pea, bean) and stew, which is seasoned with onions and lentils.
Not a single feast in Saudi Arabia is complete without a national dish " burgul". Such an original name is possessed by porridge made from corn or wheat groats with the obligatory addition of sour milk. Also a popular dish, especially among the southern peoples of Saudi Arabia, is flour porridge with the addition of olive oil and pepper.
Local restaurants are happy to provide their customers with the famous national dish " goose”- it includes baked lamb, generously seasoned with special spices, rice and nuts.
As in the rest of the Arab countries, in Saudi Arabia, it is customary to use only heat treatment for cooking meat dishes without adding fat. Rice is usually served as a side dish for meat dishes, which is traditionally seasoned with tomato paste and onions. Some restaurants offer meat and fries.
A large share in the diet of Saudis is occupied by all kinds of fruits and vegetables. Dates and figs are especially popular here. Local residents pay great attention to the use of healthy nuts.
The favorite drink in Saudi Arabia is coffee... In this country, there is a special ceremony for preparing and drinking this wonderful drink. In Saudi Arabia, people are used to flavoring coffee with all kinds of spices, especially cloves and cardamom, while the Arabs do not add sugar to coffee at all. The Arabs are very fond of various spices.
Especially popular in this country are dishes made from fermented milk products.
Residence
The development of the tourism business in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is only at an early stage. Strict Muslim customs create certain restrictions for attracting foreign tourists to this country, so not all hotels in the Kingdom have the required number of stars. The international classification was carried out mainly by those hotels that are part of large hotel chains. Nevertheless, it should be noted that all hotels and hotels are happy to offer visitors service and comfort of a quite decent level, which meets all European standards.
Most best hotels located in the capital of Saudi Arabia Riyadh... They offer their clients not only spacious and comfortable rooms, but also additional services of excellent restaurants, fitness centers, spas, swimming pools.
The hotel has become quite special for this country. Liauzan”, Which was built exclusively for women. Here they, despite the rules of conduct prescribed in a Muslim country, can independently book and check into their rooms.
The cost of renting a separate apartment in Saudi Arabia is about $ 800 per month in the capital of the state, and in other cities - no more than $ 400.
Entertainment and recreation
Most foreign tourists choose the capital of the state to visit local attractions. Riyadh... While there, be sure to visit the National Museum of Saudi Arabia, where a huge exhibition is presented, introducing visitors to the history and culture of this unique Muslim country. It is worth paying attention to yourself tall building in the country - Royal Centerowned by the prince. This building is usually associated with the oasis of modern life in Saudi Arabia.
None of the tourists who decide to come to this wonderful country will leave it without visiting Mecca... Local residents call her “Mother of Cities”. This city is the most sacred place for all Muslims in the world and is a kind of center of the Kingdom's spiritual culture. It should be noted that only adherents of the Muslim religion can visit this place; dissidents are not allowed into Mecca. If, nevertheless, you managed to get into the territory of this ancient city, then you should definitely visit the famous haram mosques, look into the main sanctuary of all Muslims - Kaab.
The most famous uninhabited city is located near the famous city of Medina Madain Salih... It is the largest and most spectacular archaeological site in Saudi Arabia. Be sure to visit this unique placeand it will not leave you indifferent.
Saudi Arabia has one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the entire planet. Therefore, this country is a must-visit for all lovers. diving.
The real entertainment of men here is falcon hunting... Many centuries ago, such an occupation was a kind of survival tool. Today it is one of the most popular sports, however, the price for this kind of recreation is not cheap at all. The cost of one hunting falcon reaches $ 80,000.
Another great entertainment in Saudi Arabia - great and unforgettable yacht cruises along the coastal islands. Such a short trip, helping to get acquainted with the local beauty, will leave an indelible impression. The yachts used for such cruises have everything you need on board: air-conditioned rooms, separate cozy bedrooms, and spacious rooms with video systems.
For lovers of a relaxing holiday, Saudi Arabia is pleased to offer an excellent opportunity to catch local fish in deep-water places in Persian Gulf... If the captain stops the yacht in a fishing spot, you will remember such an amazing bite for a lifetime.
It should be noted that fans of nightlife in Saudi Arabia will not find their usual activities, since such events are prohibited by strict Sharia law.
Purchases
Not only Muslim shrines, but also a huge number of various retail outlets brought fame to the country. These include traditional Arab markets, large department stores and large shopping centers. And here you can find both expensive boutiques and quite cheap shops.
Shopping is a favorite pastime local residentssince other entertainments are prohibited by the Koran - there is not a single night bar, club or casino in this country.
Stores usually work without a specific schedule. As a rule, the working hours of most outlets are from 9 to 13 hours, as well as from 17 to 20 hours. In the month of Ramadan, shops are open from 8:00 pm to 1:00 am. A day off in Saudi Arabia is Friday. On this day, it is customary to attend traditional sermons and prayers in mosques.
As in all eastern countries, locals are madly in love with bargaining. It is common for this country to be able to knock down the price by more than 40%. You can bargain with sellers in almost all retail outlets, except for large supermarkets.
Transport
There are several modes of transport in Saudi Arabia. Railway connection (several hundred kilometers of roads) connects the capital Riyadh with major ports in the Persian Gulf. In addition, the construction of a separate railway line linking Mecca and Medina has begun.
Public transport is represented mainly city \u200b\u200bbuses and taxis... The quality of the Kingdom's roads is poor. At the same time, the roads in Riyadh are among the best in the country. Road surface in large cities has a special composition that can significantly reduce the amount of reflected heat, which greatly saves local residents from the sultry heat.
All buses in this country are very cozy and comfortable. The cost of one trip around the city ranges from $ 1 to $ 2.
Saudi Arabia has 208 airports, and three of them have international status. The average price of one flight across the country ranges from $ 120 to $ 150.
Landlocked, Saudi Arabia contains a large number of seaports... Some of them are quite large, for example, Jeddah, Duba, Jizan, Jubail. They are the main link between Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries.
Communication
In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Post, Telegraph and Telephone provides a fairly high level of communications. The mobile communication system in this country is excellently developed. In most cities, telephone companies prefer to dismantle old pay phones because they are almost never used. Almost all residents of this state, with the exception of some Bedouin tribes, are happy owners of mobile phones or radio stations.
The cellular network has a large coverage area: the area around Riyadh and other large oases. Only some areas of the desert are not served by cellular companies.
The World Wide Web is quite widespread in all major cities of Saudi Arabia. Most hotels, post offices and business centers provide their visitors with services for using the World Wide Web.
Telephone communication in this country is provided by the latest equipment that allows you to achieve high Quality data transmission. With the help of simple street machines, you can make a phone call anywhere in the world. The cost of such a call will be just under $ 2. The work of such machines is carried out both from coins and from a prepaid plastic card.
Safety
Saudi Arabia is closed to solo travelers. All movements around the country should be carried out exclusively in groups and accompanied by a local tour operator, whose duties include the widespread accompaniment of tourists and tracking their timely departure.
There are practically no restrictions on movement around the country. Exceptions are ancient Muslim cities Medinaand Mecca, which are closed for visits to persons of other faiths. It is worth noting that local legislation even prohibits the import of items into this Muslim country that are related to other religions.
Saudi Arabia can be called a relatively safe country. Almost all travels of tourists pass without criminal excesses. In large cities, including the capital, street crime is completely absent. This is due to the special mentality of the Arabs, as well as the methods of combating the organization of crimes. Local authorities prefer to fight hooligans using fines.
If we talk about the peculiarities of road transport, it is worth mentioning that traffic in Saudi Arabia is one-way, and the speed in cities and towns is reduced to 40 km / h. Such an innovation is rather unusual for Europeans.
Business climate
Saudi Arabia's huge oil reserves have made it a major producer and exporter oil products in the world (the closest rival of the Kingdom in this area is the Russian Federation). Such a colossal concentration of natural resources makes the country attractive for doing business. Moreover, recently the Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Salman bin Abdel Aziz, has introduced some innovations into the legislation of his country that simplify business. This is especially true for the tourism industry.
With the increasing interest of Muslim tourists in the beauties of famous religious shrines and thanks to the implementation of policies that soften the rules of the Koran, some foreign businessmen prefer to invest in the economy of this particular country, which is currently the most promising in the development of the river. religious tourism.
It should be noted that recently, Saudi Arabia is known for hosting major summits and conferences related to oil production and export.
The property
Most scholars believe that the real estate market in Saudi Arabia is practically the most stable in the world. It is not affected by the global economic crisis. Thanks to the deliberate strengthening of the country's economy and the good demographic situation, the indicators of the Kingdom's real estate market are growing steadily.
This state has the largest real estate market among the Arab countries of the Persian Gulf. Due to the high level of urbanization, large cities of the country began to develop rather quickly, which required the construction of new residential buildings.
More recently, Saudi Arabia passed a law allowing the sale of real estate and land for construction to foreign citizens. But there are some limitations here. Firstly, a potential buyer must permanently reside in the territory of the state and acquire real estate only for his own use. The sale of premises to foreign investors for doing business on the territory of the state is also allowed.
Secondly, when buying a land plot in Saudi Arabia for a positive decision by the General Investment Management, the cost of the construction project must exceed $ 8 million. In addition, the entire volume of investment must be made in the country within five years. Otherwise, purchase will be refused.
It should be noted that the sale of real estate to foreigners in Mecca and Medina is strictly prohibited.
If you want to visit this unique Kingdom, you should pay attention to some strict rules of conduct in Muslim society.
- When entering the state, women must definitely wear a burqa or a long dress that covers their legs and arms. A mandatory condition for a woman to go out into the street is to cover her head with a scarf. If you break these rules, you may be expelled from the country without explanation.
- Any immodest clothing that exposes the arms above the elbow and legs, as well as a woman's head uncovered with a headscarf, can cause harsh condemnation from the religious police.
- In Saudi Arabia, women of any nationality are prohibited from driving a car.
- Although Saudi Arabia has recently lifted the ban on taking photographs and videos in public places, special permission is required to photograph military objects and people, private and state property.
- For the use of alcoholic beverages, narcotic drugs, for committing theft or premeditated murder, according to local laws, there is a very serious punishment: from chopping off hands to beheading.
Visa information
When visiting Saudi Arabia, it is worth considering availability required visa... It is strictly forbidden to enter this country for people who have an Israeli passport or an Israeli visa, as well as people who have a stamp in their passport about the Jewish religion.
The Saudi Arabian Embassy in Moscow is located at: 119121, Moscow, 3rd Neopalimovsky lane, 3.
The state of Saudi Arabia is an amazing country that combines a modern economy and ancient traditions. It attracts many tourists unique nature its deserts, beach holidays, as well as many iconic places of the Islamic world.
In this article you will find a description of the regions and cities of the country, it also presents the main attractions of Saudi Arabia. This state is the largest in the west, it is washed by the Red Sea, and in the northeast - by the Persian Gulf. Saudi Arabia shares borders with Kuwait, Iraq, Jordan, UAE, Qatar, Oman and Yemen.
Central area
In the central region of the kingdom is the capital of the state of Riyadh, as well as many other large cities to the west and north of it. This is the historical and geographical center of the country called Najd. The central part is the most conservative part of the state. To this day, its inhabitants follow all the norms of Wahhabism. There are not many foreigners here, except for the capital. They are as rare in this part of the country as rain.
Two capitals
Riyadh (Riyadh, pictured above) is a modern city whose name translates as "gardens". It was founded on the site of a settlement captured by Ibn Saud. Diraya, the first capital of the kingdom, is located 30 km from Riyadh. This is the most important place in the country from an archaeological point of view. Diraya was founded back in 1446. At the end of the 17th century, it reached the peak of its development, and in 1818 it was destroyed. Today there are many ruins that are being actively restored. Among them, you can see the following several mosques, palaces, as well as the old city wall.
Eastern Region
The eastern region of the state runs along the coast of the Persian Gulf. Within its borders are cities such as Al-Khobar, Dhahran (Ez-Zahran), Al-Jubail and Al-Khufuf. It was in the eastern part of the country that oil was first discovered, which today plays a very important role in the country's economy. This happened in the 1930s. The towns of Al-Khobar and Dammam were just small fishing villages before the oil riot began. Dhahran was absent altogether.
Dammam
Dammam is the administrative center of the eastern region. It is the terminal station of the Dammam-Riyadh railway. The main attractions of the city are the modern business center and the impressive coastal cliff. The latter in Saudi Arabia is called the Cornish ("cornice").
Al-khubar
The city of Khobar also appeared on the map thanks to oil. More recently, until 1923, it was a small Bedouin camp located near the base of a geological exploration expedition owned by ARAMCO. Currently, Al-Khobar is a large industrial city. The famous King Fahd Bridge (King Fahad-Kazway), which is 25 km long, comes out of it.
It connects Saudi Arabia to Bahrain. The King Fahd Bridge took 4 years to build - from 1982 to 1986.
Dhahran
The next city, Dhahran, was built almost entirely by ARAMCO. Today, it has an airport, business district, American consulate, and the University. King Fahad, where oilmen and geologists are trained.
El Katif
The city of El Katif is located north of Dammam, 13 km from it. It is locally formed the oldest city in the area of \u200b\u200bthe Persian Gulf. Archaeologists have not yet figured out the exact time of its foundation, but some of them date it to 3500 BC. e. on early European maps it is called the Katif Sea.
Darin and Tarut islands
Some of the most interesting places in the kingdom from a historical point of view are the islands of Darin and Tarut. Lovers of antiquity will surely like the sights of Saudi Arabia located here. The islands have preserved ancient forts, the age of which no scientist can accurately determine. In Jebel al-Qara you will find the famous ceramic workshops throughout the country, whose products are very popular in Saudi Arabia. And near the city of Abkaik (Bukaik) there are salt mines, which have been developed for almost 5 thousand years.
Al Jubail
The city of Al-Jubail lies to the north of Dammam, 90 km from it. Until the mid-1970s, this place was a fishing village. Nowadays, together with Yanbu, he forms a large industrial complex of metallurgical enterprises, petrochemical plants and trading companies. In addition, the main naval base of Saudi Arabia is located here. In the mid-1980s, ruins belonging to the Christian church of Jubail Church were excavated near Al Jubail. According to experts, they date back to the 4th century AD. e., that is, they are older than all known temple complexes in Europe.
Half Moon Bay
The Half Moon Bay region stretches to the south of Al-Khobar. This is an actively developing tourist area. If you are interested in tours to Saudi Arabia, we recommend paying attention to this place. Half Moon Bay is mainly focused on beach vacation... This region has a sandy beach, which is the longest in the kingdom and has excellent infrastructure and facilities.
El-Khufuf
The city of Al-Khufuf (otherwise - Khafuf) is the center of the vast Al-Asha (El-Asah) oasis, considered one of the largest in the world. The old fort is preserved here, as well as one of the most interesting markets in the state, where you can buy, among other things, camels, as well as products of various arts and crafts. The abundance of greenery, the size of the oasis and the picturesque villages make this area one of the most interesting places in the region.
Western Region
This area, also known as the Hejaz, is the religious, historical and cultural center of the entire Muslim world. The main Islamic shrines - the main attractions of Saudi Arabia - are located here. This part of the country contains many archaeological sites dating back to the pre-Islamic period, several biblical sites, and famous historical and architectural structures.
Mecca
Mecca is a special city that is a spiritual center and a real shrine (along with Jerusalem and Medina) for Muslims all over the planet. It is located on the slopes of the El Sarawat mountains, in the central part of the region. Only adherents of Islam can get here.
In the center of Mecca is the Kaaba (its photo is presented above). It is a cuboid structure located in the heart of the most visited Mosque in the world. The Kaaba is shrouded in black veil and has a long history. According to the Qur'an, this is one of the main places where pilgrims should gather during the Hajj. The Qur'an also says that this is the first structure that people erected to worship God. It should be said that the Kaaba is a very unusual building. Every pilgrim strives to take her photo. But this building is remarkable not only for its appearance. In one of its corners there is a built-in Black Stone, which, according to Muslim tradition, was once in paradise.
Above Mecca, in the mountains, at an altitude of about 2 thousand meters above sea level, Et-Taif is located. This is a summer camp where non-Muslims have free access.
Medina
Medina - "brilliant" or "enlightened city" - is located 950 km west of Riyadh and 490 km northeast of Mecca. Medina is the second holy city for Muslims and the first of those who followed the precepts of the prophet. It attracts many pilgrims. Unfortunately, this city is currently closed to the Gentiles.
Masjid al-Nabawi (its other name is the Mosque of the Prophet) is very famous and beautiful. It is the second shrine in Islam after the Forbidden Mosque located in Mecca. Masjid al-Nabawi is the burial place of Muhammad. The first mosque was built here during his lifetime. Subsequent rulers decorated and expanded the shrine. Under the Dome of the Prophet (Green Dome) is the tomb of Muhammad. The exact date of its construction is unknown, but the description of this dome is found in the early 12th century manuscripts.
Jeddah
Jeddah is the most important industrial, commercial and political center of the region. It is also the main port of the Red Sea. Jeddah is the gateway to many pilgrims and the most cosmopolitan city in Saudi Arabia. In Obir, 50 km north of it, there is a good water resort. The complexes Sheraton Abhur, Sands, Al Nakheel Village, Crystal Resort, Durrat Al-Arus are known not only for their high level, but also for the significant contribution they made to the preservation of the fauna and flora of the Red Sea, especially coral reefs.
Red sea
The Red Sea itself is a true paradise for water lovers. It houses one of the largest coral reef systems in the world, with approximately 200 coral species. At the same time, they are not so favored by divers as the resorts of Egypt located on the opposite shore, so your vacation in Saudi Arabia will be remembered for a long time. In Jeddah, as well as in the resort towns of the coast, all components of the tourist infrastructure are well developed. There are many hotels and retail outlets here. Saudi Arabia offers tourists an abundance of excursions and unforgettable impressions. The sea is one of the reasons why you should visit this country.
Southwest region
This area is also known as Asher. It got its name from the mountains located here (Asir). The southwest of the kingdom belongs to the Rift Valley. This is a very interesting geological formation, there are many high mountains... Near the city of Abha, the capital of the region, is Mount Jebel Saud, the highest point in the southwest (3133 m). There are also many gorges and tectonic depressions in Asira, a large amount of greenery, which is facilitated by a slightly lower temperature compared to other regions. Even Aelius Gallus mentioned this region in his Roman chronicles (25 BC) as the Land of incense. By the way, the Romans failed to capture it. Yes, and these territories became part of Saudi Arabia only in 1922, until this period remained an independent kingdom.
These regions are quite different from the rest of the state in terms of architecture and customs, which is explained by the proximity to Yemen. The cornice is the most characteristic detail of the local buildings, which prevents the erosion of the clay walls of the houses during the rains. This piece of architecture is simply unthinkable for dry Saudi Arabia.
Abha
The capital of Asira is Abha. It is the coolest city in Saudi Arabia. Its beautiful landscapes and abundance of greenery make it a popular resort. The Shada Palace, which was built in 1927 as the residence of King Abdel Aziz, has been preserved here. Abha reopened in 1987 after rebuilding. Today it is a regional museum that is open from Saturday to Thursday, admission is free.
Al-soda
East of Abha, 45 kilometers away, the magnificent landscapes of Al-Soda begin. These are sheer mountains, narrow gorges, huge cliffs, green peaks and turquoise waters of the sea. A little further south is National park Asher, who is one of the best in the state.
Farasan
Modern Saudi Arabia is not only a desert with camels, historical buildings, Islamic shrines and beach holidays. Nature lovers will surely appreciate several national parks. Farasan is located in the very south-west of Saudi Arabia, 40 km west of Jizan. This archipelago consists of 84 coral and sandy islands. Farasan was chosen by birds that chose him for breeding. It is home to seabirds (about 87 species), dugongs, gazelles, as well as sea turtles. The archipelago is almost completely included in the national park Farasan.
Northern Region
The area along the northern borders of Saudi Arabia is deserted and sparsely populated. It is practically unknown to travelers. Nevertheless, under the sands there are ancient cities, which are mentioned in the texts of the Bible.
Madain Salih
Madain Salih is an uninhabited city located 33 km north of Medina. This is the kingdom's most famous and interesting archaeological site. The city at the turn of the old and new era was very important. Caravan routes from southern Arabia to Egypt, Syria, Europe and Byzantium ran through it. The city became famous for its huge stone graves, which were built between the 1st century. BC e. and 1 c. n. e.
