Jazan

Saudi Regions

Places to Visit in The Jazan Province

Saudi Regions

Destinations

Incredible Natural Beauty

Jazan (Jizan) Province offers visitors a variety of incredible natural beauty. This province is unique from all other locations in the country as it offers a rich diversity of natural landscapes. You will find pristine beaches, a deep blue sea, secluded islands, and tall green mountains. The trademark desert sand dunes of Saudi Arabia are not found in this region. Instead, you will only find some low, white sand dunes near the beaches.

 

The province is the second smallest in the country but also has the highest population density in the country. It lies just north of Yemen along the coast of the Red Sea. The provincial capital of the province is the city of Jazan.

 

History

The history of the region is greatly influenced by its location on the coast of the Red Sea. Jazan is strategically located near the maritime chokepoint of Bab Al-Mandel. For this reason, empires and kingdoms of each era have has a great interest in the region. 

 

Artifacts recovered from near Jazan city have been dated back to the Bronze Age. The roots of ancient Kingdoms such as the Nubian, Egyptian, Roman, and Persian kingdoms can be traced back to this region. The Romans expanded maritime trade through the Red Sea and this region played a crucial part in sustaining the massive Roman legions. The Jizan province became part of the Muslim Empire in the 7th century CE. During the Ottoman period, a number of forts were built in the region. The Dosrih fort and the one in the Farasan Islands are two great examples of their architecture. Even during World War II, the Germans built a fort on the Farasan islands due to its strategic location. 

 

Geography

The province of Jizan is blessed by spectacular geography. The sheer variety of different landscapes and climates makes this a very unique place. In terms of geography, the region can be divided into three main areas. First, there are the Al-Sarawat mountains. These mightly mountains rise up to 3000 feet above sea level. 

 

Secondly, we have the forest district of Alhazoun. This area is mostly covered with a lush green forest. Some areas of pasture are also present in the district. The climate of the mountains and the forest region is somewhat similar to that of Asir. 

 

Lastly, we have the coastal plains. This region is part of the Tihamah. The climate here is hotter and humidity is high due to the nearby coast. Jizan is an agriculturally rich province and a number of different items are cultivated here. Coffee beans, barley, wheat, millet, grapes, apples, bananas, papayas, mangoes, and a number of different citrus fruits are grown in the area.  

 

Cultural Life

The cultural and heritage festival Janadriyah held every year near Jeddah has a special Jazan Heritage Village set up that offers a great insight into the culture of the Jazan province. This installment is updated every year to highlight the best that the region has to offer. Some of the most popular attractions here are the traditional houses of Tihamah. The distinct houses of Farasan Island with their decorative roof and upper windows are also displayed here. These houses are made from locally sourced materials like hay, mud, wood, and rope. The rich history of the region is also highlighted in this festival.

 

Events such as this have really promoted interest in the province of Jizan as a popular tourist destination. Visitors can experience the rich culture of the region firsthand by visiting the province.

 

Popular Attractions

The Farasan Islands are one of the jewels of Saudi Arabia. These Islands are located around 40 km from the shore of the Jizan province. Being a conservation-protected area, the region is home to diverse wildlife and marine life. The people of the island are extremely hospitable. You will get to experience unspoiled coral reefs and different species of fish here. Scuba diving and other water sports are the main activities offered here. The German-built fort can also be seen on this island. 

 

Fayfa Mountains are an extremely remarkable tourist destination. The Fayfa Hanging Mountain Village offers a panoramic view of the surroundings. This region is extremely fertile and enjoys a milder climate. The hanging village is a great location for tourists to enjoy nature at its finest.

 

Adventure seekers really love the magical Wadi Lajab. It is a true ‘heaven in the desert’ and provides an unforgettable hiking experience. Visitors can enjoy the serene landscape and wildlife that frequents the oasis.  

 

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