Abha: The Jewel of the Asir Mountains

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Na'am]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [A'adhara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bikhayr. Wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatakallam al-ingliziyya?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [La afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [Aridu an ara al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [Ana la akl al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [Fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Awdu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [Insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bial-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [Itsal batabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [Lakad dalalt al-tariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [Aridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [Ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعرها؟
  [Kam siroha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuk khafd al-siir?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [Al-nisf ba'd (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [Al-subah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [Al-dhuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [Al-masa']
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [Al-barihah]
• Todayاليوم
  [Al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [Sitah]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [Asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين الـ...؟
  [Ayna al...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [Ma huwa al-'unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [Hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [Mata al-hafilah al-qadimah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [Tazkirah (ila ....)]

Abha, located in the Asir Province of Saudi Arabia, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was home to early tribes that thrived due to the area's fertile land and strategic location. Archaeological findings suggest that Abha was a significant settlement for ancient civilizations, with remnants of stone tools and pottery indicating a thriving community.

In the late 19th century, the Ottoman Empire extended its reach into the Arabian Peninsula, including Abha. The Ottomans left a lasting impact on the region, evident in the unique architectural styles that blend local and Ottoman influences. The Shada Palace, built during this period, stands as a testament to this cultural intermingling, showcasing a blend of traditional Asiri architecture with Ottoman elements.

The early 20th century was a tumultuous period for Abha and the Asir region. The Asir Revolt of 1919-1920 was a significant uprising against Ottoman rule, led by local tribal leaders. This revolt paved the way for the eventual unification of Saudi Arabia under King Abdulaziz Al Saud. In 1921, Abha became part of the newly formed Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking a new chapter in its history.

Abha is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Asir region. The city is famous for its intricate 'Al-Qatt Al-Asiri' art, a traditional form of wall decoration practiced by women. In 2017, UNESCO recognized Al-Qatt Al-Asiri as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Additionally, Abha hosts numerous festivals celebrating local music, dance, and crafts, preserving the region's rich cultural legacy.

In recent decades, Abha has undergone significant development, transforming into a modern city while retaining its historical charm. The establishment of the Asir National Park in 1981 marked the beginning of eco-tourism in the region, attracting visitors with its stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Abha's cool climate, lush greenery, and scenic views make it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.

Abha is well-connected by air, with Abha International Airport (AHB) serving as the main gateway. The airport is about 20 kilometers from the city center and offers domestic flights from major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. International flights are also available but less frequent. Alternatively, you can reach Abha by road from nearby cities like Jeddah and Riyadh, although the journey can be long and tiring.

In Abha, transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and local buses. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street or booked via ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. Rental cars are a good option if you plan to explore surrounding areas at your own pace. Local buses are less frequent but are a budget-friendly option for getting around the city.

The official currency in Abha is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are easily accessible throughout the city, and foreign exchange services are available at the airport and major banks.

Abha is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While the city does not have high-crime areas specifically targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant.

In case of emergency, dial 997 for medical emergencies and 999 for police assistance. Abha has well-equipped hospitals and clinics for medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many staff members speak English.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Men should avoid shorts, and women should wear loose-fitting clothing covering their arms and legs. A headscarf is recommended for women, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect Islamic customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection and refrain from eating in public during Ramadan. Public Transport: Do queue orderly while waiting for buses or taxis. Don't play loud music or talk loudly. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake, but remember that some Muslims may prefer not to shake hands with the opposite gender. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't drink alcohol in public, as it is strictly prohibited.

To experience Abha like a local, visit the Tuesday Market, where you can find traditional Asiri crafts and fresh produce. Engage with locals at coffee shops and try the traditional Saudi coffee (Gahwa) and dates. Don't miss visiting the Al-Muftaha Village, known for its cultural heritage and vibrant art scene. For breathtaking views, take a cable car ride to the top of Jebel Al-Sooda, the highest peak in Saudi Arabia.