Abhā, Saudi Arabia

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Abhā, Saudi Arabia

Region: Asir

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Geographic Coordinates: 18.216900, 42.505300

Climate: Dry and hot climate with temperatures ranging from 20-40°C throughout the year. Rainfall is scarce, with occasional thunderstorms during winter months.

Population: 236157

Language: Arabic

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Abhā is a city located in the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia, Nestled among the mountains of the Sarawat range. It is the capital of Asir Province and has a population of approximately 1.5 million people. The city is known for its stunning natural beauty, Rich cultural heritage, And traditional architecture. One of Abhā’s most notable features is its breathtaking scenery. The city sits at an elevation of 2, 200 meters above sea level, Offering visitors panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

The area is also home to several parks and gardens that showcase local flora and fauna, Including the Al-Muftaha Park which features a beautiful waterfall. In addition to its natural beauty, Abhā also has a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. The city was once an important trading hub for spices and textiles, Attracting merchants from across Arabia and beyond. Today, Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Al-Muftaha Village Museum which showcases traditional Asiri architecture and way of life.

Another must-see attraction in Abhā is its vibrant marketplaces or souks where visitors can purchase handmade crafts like pottery or textiles made by local artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations. The cuisine in Abhā reflects its diverse cultural influences with dishes like kabsa (spiced rice with meat) or mandi (slow-cooked meat served with rice). Visitors can enjoy these delicious meals at local restaurants or cafes while taking in views of the stunning mountain scenery.

For those looking to experience more outdoor adventure activities during their visit to Abhā there are plenty on offer including hiking trails through scenic mountain ranges such as Jabal Soudah where you can see some amazing rock formations along with wildlife such as Arabian leopards. Overall, Abha offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty combined with rich history & culture making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking an authentic Saudi Arabian experience.

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1. Al-Soudah Park
2. Abha Palace Theme Park
3. Cable Car Ride at Jabal Al Akhdar
4. Rijal Almaa Village
5. Shadda Palace
6. Abha Dam Lake
7. Asir National Park
8. Muftaha Theatre
9. Habala Hanging Village

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• Abhā, Saudi Arabia is renowned for its agricultural sector, growing crops such as:
1. Wheat
2. Barley
3. Fruits
4. Vegetables
• The city is also gaining popularity as a tourist destination due to its:
1. Stunning scenery
2. Historical landmarks
• Other significant industries in the region include:
1. Construction
2. Retail trade
3. Healthcare services
• Moreover, Abhā has a notable presence of:
1. Government offices
2. Institutions

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Noteable History

1. Abhā, the former capital of the Asir region, played a crucial role in the Yemeni War as a base for Saudi Arabian forces.
2. The Abhā Palace Museum is an excellent place to learn about Saudi Arabia’s history and culture through its collection of traditional clothing, weapons, and pottery.
3. Sheikh Mohammed bin Nasser Al-Saud is a prominent figure from Abhā who served as governor of Asir province from 1989 to 2013.
4. The city’s lush green mountains, waterfalls, and parks like Rijal Almaa Heritage Village are popular among tourists due to their scenic beauty.
5. Abha has become famous in recent years for hosting an annual cultural festival that showcases traditional music and dance forms unique to this region.
6. Unfortunately, in June 2019, Houthi militants launched a missile attack on Abha airport causing damage but no casualties were reported.
7. Overall, Abhā has played an essential role in shaping modern-day Saudi Arabia’s political landscape while also being home to some notable landmarks that attract tourists interested in exploring its rich cultural heritage.

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Museums and Things To See

1. Al-Muftaha Arts Village is a complex of art galleries, shops, and cafes that showcase the work of local artists.
2. Abha Palace Hotel Museum is a museum located in a historic hotel that highlights the culture and history of Saudi Arabia.
3. Shada Palace is a historic palace constructed in the 1920s that now serves as a museum displaying traditional architecture and furnishings.
4. Abha Cultural Center is an arts center where exhibitions, performances, and workshops on traditional Saudi Arabian arts and crafts are held.
5. Al-Soudah Park is a picturesque park situated in the mountains outside Abha with hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Aseer National Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and culture of Aseer Province which includes Abha.
7. Habala Village is an ancient village situated atop a mountain with stunning views over the valley below.
8. Al-Qatt Al-Asiri Museum preserves Asir’s unique heritage through its traditional art form known as Al-Qatt al-Asiri.
9. Muftaha Theatre hosts live performances by local artists or classic movies projected on big screens during cultural events like Janadriyah festival or Eid celebrations.
10. Aseer Heritage House offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Asir’s rich heritage through its distinct architecture, customs, traditions & costumes etc.

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Sports Teams

1. Unfortunately, I don’t have access to the current sports teams and their histories in Abhā, Saudi Arabia.
2. However, I suggest searching online or consulting with local sports enthusiasts for more information.

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Cultural Events

1. Abha Festival: This is the biggest cultural event in Abhā, held annually during the summer season. It features music, dance, art exhibitions, and traditional food from different regions of Saudi Arabia.
2. Al-Soudah Season: This festival takes place during the winter months and celebrates the beauty of nature in Abhā’s mountainous region. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and outdoor activities.
3. Al-Miftaha Arts Village: A year-round cultural center that showcases local artists’ work through exhibitions and workshops.
4. The Traditional Souq: A bustling marketplace where visitors can buy traditional clothing, jewelry, spices and handicrafts made by local artisans.
5. The Abhā Heritage Museum: A museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Asir Province through exhibits on architecture, agriculture, crafts and folk traditions.
6. The Asir National Park: A natural park with a variety of flora and fauna indigenous to Saudi Arabia that visitors can explore on foot or by car.
7. The King Fahd Cultural Center: An iconic landmark in Abhā that hosts various cultural events throughout the year such as concerts featuring popular Arab singers or theatrical performances showcasing traditional Saudi Arabian stories.
8. Al-Qatt Al-Asiri Festival : An annual event showcasing one of Asir’s most famous art forms – Qatt Al-Asiri (decorative wall painting). Visitors can learn about this unique art form from local artists who demonstrate their skills at the festival.
9. Al-Sawda Flower Festival : Held every spring when flowers are in full bloom across Asir Mountains ,this festival celebrates nature’s beauty with colorful flower displays along with food stalls serving up regional delicacies.
10. The Rijal Almaa Heritage Village : Located just outside of Abha,this village showcases well-preserved old houses built using stone blocks without any cement or mortar.This village is a must-visit for those who want to experience the traditional way of life in Asir Province.

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Cuisine

• Kabsa – a traditional rice dish made with spices and usually served with meat such as chicken or lamb.
• Mandi – another rice-based dish that is cooked in a clay oven and often served with roasted meat.
• Saleeg – a creamy porridge made from rice, milk, and spices.
• Thareed – a bread-based dish that is soaked in broth and usually served with meat or vegetables.
• Haneeth – slow-cooked lamb or goat that is seasoned with spices and served on a bed of rice.

Some popular restaurants in Abhā that serve these dishes include:

1. Al-Mandi Restaurant
2. Al-Khayyam Restaurant
3. Al-Saif Restaurant
4. Al-Tazaj Chicken Restaurant
5. Abu Nawas Restaurant

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Parks and Recreation

1. Abha Dam Lake Park
2. Al-Soudah National Park
3. Al-Muftaha Village Park
4. Abha Palace Theme Park
5. King Fahad Park
6. Green Mountain Amusement Park
7. Al-Watan Garden
8. Abha Cultural Center and Museum
9. Aseer National Reserve
10. Aseer Mall and Entertainment City

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Leave Footprints In The Sand.

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