How to get to Al Baha

The picturesque city of Al Baha, situated high in the Sarawat Mountains, is often referred to as the "Pearl of Resorts" of the Kingdom due to its mild climate, dense forests, and historical towers. When planning a trip to Saudi Arabia, many tourists seek to visit this region to take a break from the desert heat and enjoy the mountain landscapes.

You can reach the city in various ways: using the local airport, taking a car trip along scenic winding roads, or combining ground transport with a flight to neighboring major cities.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the mountains is to take a direct flight to the regional airport, Al-Aqiq (ABT). It is located approximately 45 kilometers from the city centre and regularly receives domestic flights from the capital and other major cities of the country, ensuring reliable air connectivity to the region.

If tickets for direct flights are unavailable, travelers often choose to fly to neighboring cities followed by a transfer. The nearest alternatives are the airport in the city of Taif (about 174 km away) or the major international hub in Jeddah (290 km), from where you can continue the journey by land.

Currently, there is no direct railway service to the city of Al Baha, as the complex mountain terrain of the region makes track construction difficult. The Kingdom's railway network does not yet cover this high-altitude part of the country, so the train is not a primary method of getting here directly.

However, train enthusiasts can travel to the nearest major transport hubs. For example, high-speed trains operate to the city of Jeddah, located 290 km from the resort. Tourists will have to cover the remaining part of the journey via a rental car or intercity bus.

Bus services connect Al Baha with most major cities in the Kingdom, offering a budget-friendly travel option. The most popular routes run from neighboring regions, such as the city of Taif or the port city of Jeddah.

Although the exact travel time depends on the specific carrier and the number of stops, a bus trip allows you to enjoy the views while ascending the Sarawat Mountains. It is recommended to check the schedule at departure bus stations in advance, as the frequency of trips may change depending on the season.

Traveling by car is one of the most scenic ways to reach the resort, as the roads pass through beautiful mountain passes. The shortest route leads from the city of Taif: the distance is about 220 km, and the travel time will take approximately 2.5–3 hours on a high-quality highway.

For those driving from the Red Sea coast, the journey from Jeddah (about 392 km) will take around 4.8 hours. The route from the south, from the city of Abha, is also popular: covering 337 km will require about 5 hours of driving, which demands attention due to winding road sections.

Before visiting Al Baha, it is worth noting that this is a high-altitude region with specific characteristics distinct from coastal zones or desert parts of the country. Here are some useful tips for a comfortable journey:

1. Clothing and Essentials: Even in summer, evenings here can be cool, and in winter, the temperature drops significantly. Be sure to bring a warm sweater or light jacket, as well as comfortable shoes for walking in the mountains.
2. Transport: Public transport within the city is not well developed. The best option for sightseeing and trips to Raghadan Forest is renting a car.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Cards are accepted in most hotels and supermarkets, but it is better to carry cash for purchases at traditional markets (souqs).
4. Health and Safety: The city is safe for tourists. However, due to the altitude and winding roads, people prone to motion sickness may feel unwell—stock up on appropriate medication at a pharmacy.
5. Communication: Arabic is the main language. In tourist spots and hotels, staff often speak English, but learning a few greeting phrases in Arabic will be seen as a sign of respect.
6. Local Etiquette: Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. This is a conservative region where traditions and politeness are highly valued.
7. What to Avoid: Be cautious on the roads during fog, which often descends on the city, reducing visibility to almost zero.
8. Extra Tip: Beware of wild monkeys (baboons) on mountain roads and observation decks—do not feed them and do not leave car windows open, as they can be aggressive in search of food.

Following these simple recommendations will help you get the most enjoyment out of the fresh mountain air and the hospitality of the locals.