Abha

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Rent a car: Public transport in Abha is thin, and the best of Asir, from Al Soudah to Rijal Almaa, sits up winding mountain roads. A hire car from Abha airport gives you full freedom.
Use Careem or Uber in town: Ride-hailing apps work well around central Abha and Al Khamis, and avoid haggling with street taxis. Set the drop-off pin precisely, as addresses can be vague.
Take the Al Soudah cable car: The teleferic drops from the Al Soudah heights toward the Rijal Almaa side, giving huge views over the Sarawat cliffs without the hairpin drive.

Drive slowly in the fog: Mist rolls over the Asir mountain roads fast, especially in summer afternoons. Use headlights, keep distance and watch for camels and baboons on the road.
Watch the baboons: Troops of baboons gather at viewpoints like Al Soudah and Al Habala. Do not feed them and keep food and bags closed, as they can grab and bite.
Carry your ID: Keep your passport or visa copy with you, as checkpoints on the roads around Abha may ask for it. Police are generally courteous to visitors.

Visit outside the summer peak: Abha fills with Saudi families escaping the heat from June to August, and hotel rates jump. Spring and autumn are calmer and cheaper.
Eat at local Asiri restaurants: Small family places serving areeka and haneeth cost far less than hotel dining and are often better. Look for spots busy with locals.
Enjoy the free parks: Al Soudah Park, Asir National Park picnic areas and the Abha dam lake are free to enjoy. Bring a picnic and join local families at sunset.

Pack a warm layer: At over 2,000 metres, Abha is cool year round, with chilly nights even in summer. Winter evenings can be cold, so bring a fleece or jacket.
Expect summer rain and fog: The Asir highlands catch monsoon showers and dense fog in summer afternoons. A light rain jacket is worth carrying on mountain trips.
Dress modestly: Loose clothing covering shoulders and knees is the norm in Abha, which is more conservative than Riyadh or Jeddah. Comfortable shoes help on village paths.

Try areeka with Asiri honey: This filling wheat dough dish, topped with ghee and local honey, is the classic Asir breakfast. The region's mountain honey is prized across Saudi Arabia.
Respect prayer times: Many shops and cafes close briefly during the five daily prayers. Plan errands around them and check a prayer time app before heading out.
Visit Al Muftaha Village: This arts district in central Abha showcases Asiri painted walls and crafts. The colourful Al Qatt geometric style is UNESCO-listed intangible heritage.

Go to the Tuesday market: Souq Al Thulatha in Abha is a traditional weekly market for honey, spices, herbs and crafts. Go early for the liveliest atmosphere.
Time Rijal Almaa for late afternoon: The stone tower houses of this heritage village glow in the low sun, and the drive down the escarpment is cooler after midday.
Check summer festival dates: Abha hosts big summer season events with concerts and markets. Check the Visit Saudi app before booking to catch them or avoid the crowds.