Are you unfamiliar with Al-Soudah? Don't worry, let me introduce you to this stunning region in southern Saudi Arabia through the "Al Soudah Season". The Al-Soudah Mountains tower up to 3000m, with Abha serving as the regional capital at 2300m. To promote tourism in the area in the coming years, the Flowermen Festival was held in August, showcasing the area's beauty.

Let's embark on an adventure together!

The region boasts a welcoming local community, a mild climate (around 20 degrees Celsius during the day and significantly cooler at night, even in August!), and stunning landscapes that offer a variety of activities like zip-lining, bungee jumping, paragliding, hiking, and more. Don't miss out on these breathtaking views!

However, despite the diverse program offerings, the organization is not yet fully prepared for significant tourism due to various shortcomings, such as the drivers' lack of punctuality, which caused us to waste a considerable amount of time during the festival. This issue needs to be addressed by the organizers in future editions.

Nonetheless, the festival provides visitors with the opportunity to explore a range of environments, from the towering and nearly unoccupied spaces to modern cities such as Abha.

During the visit, we also get a chance to explore the modern architectural marvels, including the breathtaking Villa Al Sahu. This magnificent structure was designed by the talented architect Khalid Henedy as a tribute to his father.

The villa's contemporary design incorporates unique features that reflect the surrounding landscape and culture, making it an outstanding example of modern architecture in Saudi Arabia. Its minimalist yet elegant façade and thoughtful interior design showcase the architect's mastery of form, function, and materials.

As we explore this architectural jewel, we can't help but appreciate the meticulous attention to detail and the intricate interplay between light and shadow. The Villa Al Sahu is a true testament to the capabilities of Saudi Arabia's emerging design talents and their ability to seamlessly blend contemporary design with traditional influences.

The region also boasts traditional villages with stunning architecture, such as Rijal Alma'a, which hosts the Flowermen Festival, named after a village where men wear flower wreaths to celebrate festive occasions.

Rijal Alma'a's architecture is a beautiful testament to the region's rich heritage and history. The village's traditional buildings are constructed using local materials like mud, stone, and wood, and feature intricate details and decorative elements, such as carved wooden doors and windows.

The village's charm is elevated even further at nightfall, when the immersive light and sound show begins. The combination of colorful lights and enchanting sounds creates a magical atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. The experience is truly unforgettable and is sure to evoke a sense of childlike wonder and awe.

Visiting traditional villages like Rijal Alma'a provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the region's rich cultural heritage and the timeless beauty of traditional architecture. It's a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and history of southern Saudi Arabia.

The spectacular fireworks display that accompanied my return to the hotel in Abha was the perfect conclusion to my 48-hour stay. This short yet memorable trip provided me with an enriching cultural, human, and visual experience that offered a glimpse of what Saudi Arabia has in store for visitors in the coming years.

I was impressed by the region's diversity and the warm hospitality of its people. From the stunning natural landscapes and modern cities like Abha to the traditional villages with their unique architecture and cultural heritage, southern Saudi Arabia has a lot to offer visitors.

As the country continues to develop and expand its tourism industry, I can't help but feel excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. My short stay in the region has left a lasting impression, and I can't wait to return and explore more of what this fascinating country has to offer.

Thanks again to KAWA News for bringing me a second time in Saudi Arabia!

BONUS

Since I had a lengthy layover in Jeddah before heading back home to Paris, I took advantage of the opportunity to explore the city. Luckily, I had a friend named Jay who lives in Jeddah and knows the city inside out, so I spent the entire afternoon with him.

The Floating Mosque is one of Jeddah's most iconic landmarks and a popular tourist destination. The mosque, also known as the White Mosque, appears to be floating on the Red Sea due to its unique location on a platform that extends out to the water's edge.

The mosque's stunning architecture is a blend of traditional Islamic and modern styles, featuring white marble walls, intricate geometric patterns, and a large dome that shines in the sun. The mosque can accommodate up to 1,500 worshippers at once and offers breathtaking views of the sea from its expansive windows.

For the remainder of the afternoon, I strolled through the streets of Al-Balad, Jeddah's historic old town. As an avid street photographer, I must admit that it is a must-visit location for capturing unique and intriguing shots.

Exploring Jeddah was a fascinating and enriching experience, and I was thrilled to have had the chance to discover a bit of the city's vibrant culture and history. From the Floating Mosque to the charming streets of Al-Balad, Jeddah is a city filled with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Thanks a lot KAWA News !