Why Aseer is the perfect summer getaway for UAE residents who loved Salalah

Dubai:  If you have already enjoyed a cool, misty getaway in Salalah and are craving more mountain air and lush greenery, there’s another destination worth exploring.

Aseer, in southwestern Saudi Arabia, offers a similarly refreshing escape with its fog-draped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage. With Aseer Season running until August 31, now is the ideal time to plan your visit.

What makes Aseer ideal in summer?

Unlike much of the Gulf, Aseer offers a cooler climate year-round, thanks to its mountainous terrain. The region's capital, Abha, sits over 2,200 metres above sea level, making it one of the coolest cities in Saudi Arabia during the summer months.

The summer months (June to August) are peak season for Aseer, with ideal temperatures, increased rainfall, and lush landscapes.

According to AccuWeather, recent forecasts show daytime temperatures in Abha ranging between 24°C to 29°C, often with afternoon showers, hazy skies and bursts of sunshine.

While it can occasionally climb above 30°C mid-afternoon, the mornings are cool, foggy and refreshing, ideal for nature walks and outdoor adventures.

Top places to visit in Aseer

The region is known for its misty mountains at dawn, waterfalls, forested areas, and picturesque valleys. Aseer turns the typical image of desert-filled Saudi Arabia on its head. Here are a few popular spots worth exploring:

1. Soudah Mountain (Jebel Sawda) - The highest peak in Saudi Arabia at 3,015 metres, Jebel Sawda offers panoramic views, often surrounded by cloud cover. Temperatures here hover around 20 - 25°C in summer.

2. Green Mountain (Jabal Thera) - Named after the green lights illuminating it at night, Green Mountain provides panoramic views of Abha. Take the cable car from Abha Al Jadidah Station and admire the hills and Lake Sadd from 400 metres above.

3. Rijal Almaa Heritage Village - With nearly 700 years of history, Rijal Almaa is an architectural marvel built from basalt stone and white quartz. Once a military stronghold, it's now a UNESCO-nominated site showcasing traditional Saudi culture, performances, and crafts.

4. Jurf Reedah Reserve - Just 30 minutes from Abha, this nature reserve in the Sarawat Mountains is home to ancient juniper forests, Arabian wolves, lynxes, hyraxes, and rare birds like the Arabian woodpecker and Aseeri magpie.

5. Al Habala - Take a cable car ride into the high mountains of Habala. Here, striking rock formations, seasonal waterfalls, and untouched natural beauty create an unforgettable scene.

6. Dhabou’i Dam - A serene spot near Hosak Adventure Camp, this dam is ideal for kayaking, traditional boat rides or simply relaxing in a peaceful mountain setting.

Things to do in Aseer

• Adventure: Try paragliding, mountain climbing, safari tours, and even surfing or diving along the coast.

• Culture: Explore ancient forts, palaces, and museums to uncover the region’s deep-rooted history.

• Nature: From forest hikes to valley walks, rural tourism in Aseer lets you discover diverse flora, unique landscapes, and local cuisine.

If you need help planning, you can book guided experiences through the Visit Saudi platform - www.visitsaudi.com/en/aseer .For instance, a 4-day guided tour of Aseer costs SAR 4,500 (Dh4406.35), including transport, local guide, breakfast, and experiences.

How to get there

Reaching Aseer from the UAE is simple, with direct flight connections available from major cities. flydubai operates daily direct flights from Dubai International Airport to Abha International Airport.

Air Arabia also offers daily flights from Sharjah to Abha. Saudi carriers such as flynas and Saudia serve this route too, though some flights may include a stopover in Riyadh.

The total flight time is approximately two hours, making it an ideal short-haul getaway from the Emirates.

How to get around

Getting around in Abha and the wider Aseer region is hassle-free. Ride-hailing services such as Uber, Careem, and Bolt operate throughout the city and can also be used for trips to nearby attractions. Car rentals are widely available and can be booked with or without a driver.

If you plan to drive yourself, make sure you carry an International Driving Permit if you're a foreign national, as it’s required by Saudi authorities.

Where to stay

Accommodation options in Abha cater to a range of preferences and budgets. Among the popular choices are Abha Palace Hotel, which offers views of the surrounding hills and lake, Citadines Abha and W Suites Hotel, known for its contemporary comfort and central location.

Saudi Arabia Visa Information for UAE residents

Travelling to Aseer is now easier than ever for UAE residents. Expatriates living in the UAE can apply for an eVisa under the GCC resident category through Saudi Arabia’s unified visa platform at ksavisa.sa. The process is straightforward and can be completed online.

Depending on your nationality, you may also be eligible for a visa on arrival at one of Saudi Arabia’s international airports.