Berg Al Qarah - Das Land der Zivilisation - Al Ahsa

There’s a mountain and there are caves. It is beautiful, and the place is well lit. Enter the areas further beyond the prescribed path at your own peril. Beware of its beauty and complexity if you decide to traverse further into the darkness of the cave.

The Jabal Al Qarah Caves, located approximately 13 km east of Al Hofuf, Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, are an intricate cave system developed in the calcareous sandstone, marl and clay of the Upper Miocene to Lower Pliocene Hofuf Formation. Physiographically, the hill of Jabal Al Qarah is an outlier mesa that is located at the eastern edge of the Shedgum Plateau, the southern extension of the As Summan Plateau, and the larger Syrian Plateau to the north. Based on cave morphology and interpreted evolutionary history, the Jabal Al Qarah caves appear to be significantly different from other limestone caves reported in the As Summan Plateau. Jabal Al Qarah is known for its tall, linear cave passages and narrow canyons. The boxwork of linear passages is better developed here than any other known cave locations in the Eastern Province. Field observations, including orientations of the escarpment face of the Shedgum Plateau, joints, and fractures, coupled with a review of the tectonic history of the region, suggest that these caves resulted from erosional enlargement of a series of very deep and narrow joint-controlled fissures in the Hofuf Formation. Petrographic data, especially an abundance of wellpreserved palygorskite type clay minerals, suggests that the Hofuf Formation was deposited in a mudflat-dominated coastal plain environment.

Al Qarah Mountain is a fascinating natural landmark with unique geological features. The cave system within the mountain adds an element of mystery and intrigue to the overall experience. The site offers a picturesque landscape, and the panoramic views from the top are breathtaking. Exploring the caves and rock formations provides an opportunity to appreciate the region's natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors should be prepared for a bit of hiking, but the reward is well worth the effort. Overall, Al Qarah Mountain is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in geological wonders.

Amazing attraction. Definitely a must see. It is at least a half day visit. The main attraction is the Qarah cave. It is a wonder of nature. Cold during the summer and warm during the winter. There are scheduled hikes and sometimes there are even hikes to the top of the cliffs. There are restaurants and cafés at the entrance. Inside the cave there is a professional photographer that will take amazing pictures and you can buy them at the studio on your way out where they can make portraits, fridge magnets, or other photo products for your photos.

We happened to have a spare afternoon while on a business trip and ventured out here for an afternoon. From our hotel near Khobar it took about 2 hours to drive out. We spent about 3 hours in total (30mins of that was getting a bite to eat at the nearby restaurant before heading back.) Although it wasn’t much of an issue, I’d advise to plan your return so you get back to Dharhan/Damman before the rush hour at 1700-ish. Most of the staff are able to speak English or at least make themselves understood and the man selling the tickets and ladies in the shop were very friendly. After paying for your tickets you go up to the second floor where you firstly receive a short talk about Saudi’s history and religion with three extremely friendly young volunteers. After that you pass through a small exhibition with replica artefacts found in the region. I was marvelled reading about some of the items which dated back 1000s of years. After that you’re let loose to wander around the caves and take photographs. The place wasn’t overly busy and you could take your time, to take it all in. Plus the caves are temperature wise - super cool. Very worth the afternoon’s visit