At more than 3,000 meters above sea level, Jabal Sawda holds the title of Saudi Arabia’s highest mountain. Set in the Asir region, just outside the city of Abha, it offers a rare blend of cool temperatures, panoramic views, and outdoor activities that appeal to residents and visitors alike. This combination of natural beauty and year-round accessibility makes it a focal point in the Kingdom’s expanding tourism map.
Nature meets Heritage
Some destinations are memorable for their views, others for their stories; Jabal Sawda has both. Its slopes are covered with juniper forests and seasonal wildflowers, creating a green contrast to the desert surroundings. For the Asiri community, it is a place of pride, hosting the Flowerman Festival where floral garlands and traditional performances celebrate regional heritage.
As part of the Vision 2030 tourism strategy, the Al Soudah Peaks development is set to enhance the mountain’s role as a luxury travel destination, attracting visitors from across the globe.
Reaching the Summit
Reaching Jabal Sawda is as much a journey as it is a destination. Positioned about 20 km from Abha in the Sarawat Mountain range, the drive winds through scenic roads with stop points perfect for photography. Visitors can arrive by private car or as part of a guided tour, making it accessible for both independent travellers and organised groups.
Key access points:
- 30 minutes from Abha International Airport
- 25 minutes from central Abha
- Linked to nearby villages via cable car routes
Exploring Jabal Sawda
You can explore Jabal Sawda in a single afternoon or stretch your visit into a weekend of activities. The area offers guided and self-led experiences to suit different preferences:
- Hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Cable car rides with sweeping views of valleys and villages
- Visits to El Sahab (Cloud) Park for mist-filled walks
- Cultural excursions to Rijal Almaa Village and its heritage museum
- Camping experiences in designated areas
Tour operators often provide transport, local insights, and refreshments, ensuring you enjoy a seamless day out.
Jabal Sawda Tickets
Knowing what to expect before you arrive helps you make the most of your time on the mountain. Entry to Jabal Sawda itself is free, but certain activities carry separate charges.
- Cable car rides: Around 80 SAR per adult for a round trip, taking about 20 minutes each way.
- Guided tours: Packages that include Jabal Sawda, El Sahab Park, and Rijal Almaa Village start from $200–$330 per person, depending on the itinerary.
- Adventure activities: Trekking, camping, or private cultural visits are priced individually by operators.
For peak summer months and festival periods, Book in advance to secure your preferred time and avoid queues.
At Saudi’s peak
Some places are defined by numbers, and for Jabal Sawda, the height alone might be enough to impress, but its value goes far beyond that. Local tradition holds that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) prayed at Jabal Sawda during his travels, giving the peak a quiet spiritual value.
- The highest point in Saudi Arabia with panoramic views
- Recognised biodiversity hotspot for plants and birds
- Cultural symbol of the Asir region
- Part of Vision 2030 tourism and investment projects
Living Near Jabal Sawda
For residents, the mountain is a lifestyle backdrop. Properties near Jabal Sawda benefit from the area’s tourism appeal, cool climate, and improving infrastructure. Opportunities in boutique hotels, seasonal homes, and eco-tourism are on the rise as the area gains attention from investors.
Explore with Bayut-KSA
Whether planning a short visit or considering a seasonal home, Bayut-KSA connects you with the best property listings in the Asir region. Explore now and find your ideal space near Jabal Sawda.
