Rijal Almaa

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Rijal Almaa is a heritage village over 900 years old, located approximately 45–50 kilometers west of Abha in the southwestern region of Saudi Arabia.

It played a pivotal role as a regional trade center along the pilgrimage and trade routes connecting Yemen and the eastern regions to the Hijaz and the Near East.

The village comprises around 60 multi-story buildings—some reaching up to 8 stories—constructed from stone, mud, and wood.

The wooden windows are painted in vibrant colors, and the interior walls are adorned with decorative murals in the traditional Asiri style known as Al-Qatt Art, with colors that symbolize the region’s cultural identity.

At the heart of the village lies the Rijal Almaa Heritage Museum, housed within Al-Alwan Fortress, which dates back over 400 years. It was founded by the village residents in 1985 and officially inaugurated in 1987 by Prince Khalid Al-Faisal.

The museum contains more than 2,000 artifacts and documents, displayed across 19 exhibition halls, including ancient manuscripts, tools, and traditional weapons.

The village has been nominated for UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites, as part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote tourism while preserving cultural authenticity.

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Tourist Activities and Experiences

• Wander through the narrow alleyways between the stone buildings to admire the architecture and embrace the cultural serenity.

• Take the breathtaking cable car ride from Mount Soudah to the village for a unique and immersive experience.

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Why Visit Rijal Almaa?

 

• A living heritage experience that breathes authenticity and Asiri culture.

• Rich in distinctive storytelling architecture with a traditional soul.

• Smart development initiatives preserve its heritage while promoting sustainable tourism.

• An educational destination for visitors and researchers interested in traditional architecture and Al-Qatt art.