Saudi Arabia’s Sarawat Mountains Preserve Unique Ecosystem and Cultural Heritage

Taif, April 16 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – The Sarawat mountain ranges, extending along the western edge of the Arabian Peninsula, continue to serve as a vital natural and cultural asset for Saudi Arabia. These highlands support a temperate ecosystem rare in the region, providing habitat for endangered species such as the Arabian leopard and a diverse range of birdlife, including falcons. Their varied terrain—from deep valleys to soaring peaks—once supported thriving ancient civilizations and now draws thousands of visitors annually for its scenic beauty and outdoor experiences.

Today, the Sarawat Mountains are a renowned destination for camping, hiking, and nature exploration, with locations like Al-Shafa and Al-Hada in Taif Governorate rising to elevations of around 2,500 meters. These areas are especially popular in winter, when heavy fog blankets the landscape and the sun sets over the peaks in dramatic displays. Visitors are greeted by sweeping views, ancient juniper forests, and distinctive rock formations.

Citizen Tariq Al-Talhi, speaking about his experience in the area, described ancient stone dwellings scattered along the slopes—remnants of traditional life that reveal the ingenuity of earlier generations who adapted to the mountain environment. “Some peaks offer views so wide and high they’re like standing at the edge of the world,” Al-Talhi said, underscoring the breathtaking vistas found in the region.

He also pointed to the resilience of highland communities, where farming and herding practices remain embedded in daily life. These traditions, shaped by the rhythms of the mountain environment, continue to anchor the cultural identity of the area.

The Sarawat ranges remain not only a natural refuge but also a living testament to the interplay between geography, heritage, and resilience in the Kingdom’s highland regions—aligning with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to preserve environmental and cultural treasures in line with Vision 2030.