Asir Province
Historical Site
Museum

Rijal Almaa - Beautiful Heritage Village

4.5Reviews
Rijal Alma Village, Rojal Saudi Arabia
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Description

Situated in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia, Rijal Alma Village is undoubtedly one of the most historically important and beautiful villages in the Middle East. Famous for its fascinating architecture, rich history, pleasant weather, and beautiful landscape, this small village served as the regional trade center through centuries and was the natural passage that connected Yemen and Lavant to Makkah and Madinah. 

Architecture and landscape

The village consists of 60 multiple-storey ancient buildings that were built using stone, clay, and wood while the hillside has several defensive watchtowers built strategically to maximize fields of view and firing range. As beautiful as the tall stone buildings are, the real wonders lie behind the stone and clay walls. Each house is decorated and painted by skilled artisans with the most fascinating color combinations and artworks. The village is surrounded by steep hills that look over a winding road that once served as one of the most important trade routes in the Arabian Peninsula. 

Activities and Attractions

The tallest fort in the village is the Fort of Al Jaber & Al Hawat while some of the other important forts include Forts of Maejib & Hakim, Msamr, al-Dir”iyyah, and al-Sisbae, each of which has its own unique history documented and preserved by the original families. 

Rijal Alma is also home to the oldest museum in Saudi history which was established by the locals in one of the stone buildings in 1985 to preserve the village’s ancient history and heritage. The museum displays over 2800 exhibits of local history and over 500 kg of ancient local jewelry. 

Some other nearby attractions include Tanomah Waterfall, Al Sahab Park, and Al Soudah View Point.

Destination Type
Area of Natural Beauty
Historical Site
Landmark
Museum

Location

Rijal Alma Village, Rojal Saudi Arabia

Reviews

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Reviews
Felix II Gonzales

Felix II Gonzales

09/27/2023 04:52

Google review

A must see fortress near Abha, still in a ruin state and gives a good adventure vibes for a half day exploration. A thing to note is that there are also similar but smaller structures that dot the hillside along thr road to rijal, and maybe one cab visit them too
Gary Pangsayan

Gary Pangsayan

09/02/2023 21:17

Google review

I recently visited the Rijal Alma Museum in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia, and I was absolutely blown away. The museum is located in a beautiful traditional village, and it tells the story of the village's history and culture. The museum is divided into several sections, each of which focuses on a different aspect of the village's life. There are sections on the village's architecture, its agriculture, its handicrafts, and its traditional way of life. There are also sections on the village's role in the spice trade and its involvement in the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans. I particularly enjoyed the section of the museum that was dedicated to the village's traditional way of life. There were exhibits on the types of homes that the villagers lived in, the clothes that they wore, and the tools that they used. I also learned about the village's unique culture and traditions. The exhibits in the museum are incredibly well-curated and informative. There are traditional tools and weapons, clothing, jewelry, and household items on display. There are also photographs, paintings, and maps that help to bring the village's history to life. The museum staff are also very knowledgeable and helpful. They were happy to answer all of my questions and provide me with more information about the village. Overall, I had a wonderful experience at the Rijal Alma Museum. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the history and culture of Saudi Arabia. Here are some specific things that I liked about the museum: The exhibits were well-curated and informative. The museum staff were knowledgeable and helpful. The museum is located in a beautiful traditional village. The museum provides a glimpse into the history and culture of Saudi Arabia. I highly recommend visiting the Rijal Alma Museum if you are in the Asir region of Saudi Arabia. It is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Zainab Al Eid

Zainab Al Eid

08/28/2023 20:48

Google review

I’m fascinated by this place. I just walked the whole place without go to museum. Everything is just perfect, it’s a must to visit in this region.
Chetan Chavan

Chetan Chavan

08/18/2023 15:51

Google review

Nice place to visit with family and friends..... Heritage site and beautiful old House's
Nature Explorer

Nature Explorer

07/29/2023 10:46

Google review

One of the Must visit place in Saudi Arabia. Rijal Alma is in tentative UNESCO world heritage site list. Located in Aseer region and just 40-60kms from Abha city. You need good vehicle to drive to Rijal Alma since roads are full of curve n slopes. Entrance fee SR20/-. It’s small heritage village and you can see mesmerizing views.
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