About Abha
Abha, often referred to as the "Bride of the Mountain," is a charming city located in the Asir Province of southwestern Saudi Arabia. Perched at an elevation of approximately 2,200 meters in the Asir Mountains, Abha enjoys a cooler climate throughout the year, making it an appealing retreat and picturesque destination. With a population of around 1.1 million as of 2023, the city is renowned for its cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Due to its high elevation, Abha experiences a milder climate compared to most of Saudi Arabia. Summers are refreshingly cool, while winters are moderate, creating an inviting atmosphere for visitors. The most favorable time to visit is between April and October, when the weather is ideal for outdoor exploration and sightseeing.
Abha is accessible via Abha International Airport, situated around 25 kilometers from the city center. The airport is serviced by several airlines connecting to major Saudi cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. For international travelers, connecting flights through Riyadh or Jeddah provide convenient access to this unique mountain city. Its location ensures that travelers from all over the world can easily reach this destination.
The cuisine of Abha reflects the agricultural abundance of the region. Visitors can savor traditional dishes such as saleeg, a comforting meal of rice cooked with milk and meat, and areeka, a flavorful combination of bread, honey, and butter. Abha markets are also known for their local produce, including honey, grapes, and pomegranates, which are highly popular among tourists.
Abha features an array of attractions that cater to a variety of interests. The Green Mountain, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and is beautifully illuminated in green at night. The historic Al Muftaha Village showcases traditional Asiri architecture and vibrant murals that highlight local artistry, while Shada Palace, a former royal residence, has been converted into a museum that delves into the region’s history and culture. Nature enthusiasts can explore Asir National Park, which boasts expansive landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and opportunities for activities like hiking, picnicking, and bird-watching.
Another must-visit site is the Habala Hanging Village, known for its dramatic cliffside houses and stunning valley views. Visitors can also enjoy an unforgettable perspective of Abha’s mountainous scenery by riding its cable cars.
The city is also known for its annual Abha Summer Festival, which is a celebration of the cultural richness of the Asir region. This vibrant event features traditional performances, local crafts, and art exhibitions, offering visitors an immersive experience of the region’s traditions and creativity.
Transportation to Abha City Center from Airport
Abha Intl. Airport
When you land at Abha Airport, about 26 kilometers from Abha, capital of the Asir province of Saudi Arabia, you can travel to the center of the city with one of Abha's taxis waiting in front of the airport terminal, usually in accordance with flight times. Apart from taxis, Abha Airport also provides many alternatives to passengers who want to rent a car. Apart from these, it is recommended to arrange transfers between Abha Airport and the city center via hotel shuttles, especially for passengers staying at a hotel.
Taxi
You can find a taxi without difficulty, especially at times when flights are organized, in front of the terminal building at Abha Airport. Taxis are also one of the main practical and comfortable vehicle options to travel to Abha city center, which is 26 kilometers away from the airport. In order to better communicate with the taxi drivers who meet their passengers in front of the Abha Airport, you can write down the address of the place you want to go to in the city center beforehand and you can travel more easily by showing this paper to the taxi driver after arriving at the airport. As in other parts of Saudi Arabia, you are expected to pay the taxi fare in Abha with the Saudi Arabian Riyal. However, you can also make a payment in Abha with a common currency like US Dollar.
Car Rental
You can visit the offices of one of the companies that provide car rental service in Abha Airport terminal, and make your choice of vehicles. In order to avoid any inconvenience while renting a car in Abha Airport, you are advised to make a reservation in advance and pick up the car you reserved as soon as you land the airport. You might want to take advantage of a navigation device that will guide you from the airport to the city center or to any other nearby point you want to travel, without getting lost in Abha.
Hotel Shuttle
Hotel shuttles are also among the recommended vehicles for transferring to the city from the airport in the region and throughout Saudi Arabia. The shuttles that pick you up from in front of the terminal and bring you directly to your hotel are much more affordable compared to the taxis operating in Abha. Moreover, you can take your heavy luggage where you will be staying with hotel services without difficulty. Remember to check whether your hotel is providing this service or not, and to learn the fares, if applicable, by contacting your hotel in advance and make the necessary reservations to make benefit of this service.
