Al Baha: Jewel of the Mountains

• Helloمرحبا
  [Marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [Naam]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك/على الرحب والسعة
  [Min fadlik/Ala al-rahb was-sa'ah]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [Aathiraa]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [Bekhair. Wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [Hal tatahadath al-ingliziyya?]
• I don't understandأنا لا أفهم
  [Ana la afham]

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

• Help!النجدة!
  [Al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [Ansuraf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itsal bi al-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [Itsal bi tabib!]
• I'm lostأنا ضائع
  [Ana daa'ia]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [Awd an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [Ana faqat attala]
• How much is it?بكم هذا؟
  [Bikam hadha?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuk khafd al-sa'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam al-saa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Al-saa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [Al-ashirah wan-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [Al-sabah]
• Afternoonالعصر
  [Al-asr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [Al-masaa]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [Al-barhih]
• Todayاليوم
  [Al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [Ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [Sitah]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamaniyah]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [Asharah]

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

Al Baha's history traces back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlements dating back thousands of years. Archaeological findings, such as stone tools and pottery, indicate that the area was inhabited by early human communities who relied on agriculture and trade.

During the early centuries AD, Al Baha came under the influence of the Himyarite Kingdom, a powerful South Arabian state. The Himyarites were known for their advanced agricultural practices and construction of impressive fortifications, some of which can still be seen in the region today.

With the advent of Islam in the 7th century, Al Baha became an integral part of the Islamic world. The region saw the rise of various tribal societies, such as the Ghamid and Zahran tribes, which played significant roles in the political and social dynamics of the area.

During the 16th century, Al Baha fell under Ottoman control, which left a lasting impact on its architecture and culture. The Ottomans constructed forts, watchtowers, and administrative buildings, many of which still stand today as a testament to their influence in the region.

In the early 20th century, Al Baha became part of the newly established Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the leadership of King Abdulaziz Al Saud. This period marked significant development and modernization in the region, including the construction of roads, schools, and healthcare facilities.

Al Baha is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, which is celebrated through various festivals and traditions. The Al Baha Summer Festival, for example, showcases local music, dance, and crafts, providing a glimpse into the vibrant cultural life of the region.

The traditional architecture of Al Baha, characterized by stone houses and intricate wooden carvings, reflects the region’s unique cultural identity. Villages like Dhee Ayn, known as the Marble Village, offer visitors an opportunity to explore well-preserved traditional structures and learn about the local way of life.

In recent years, Al Baha has seen a surge in tourism development, with efforts to preserve its natural beauty and historical sites while promoting sustainable tourism. The region's stunning landscapes, including the lush forests of Raghadan and the scenic mountains of Al-Soudah, attract visitors from around the world.

Al Baha is accessible by air, road, and rail. The nearest airport is Al Baha Domestic Airport, which has regular flights connecting to major Saudi cities like Riyadh and Jeddah. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the city center, which is approximately 45 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can drive to Al Baha from major cities such as Jeddah (around 4 hours) or Riyadh (around 9 hours). Public buses operated by SAPTCO also connect Al Baha with other cities in Saudi Arabia.

Once in Al Baha, you can explore the city using taxis, which are readily available and relatively affordable. For a more flexible option, consider renting a car. Public buses are limited but do operate within the city and to nearby towns. Walking is also a viable option for exploring the compact city center and its immediate surroundings.

The official currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Al Baha, allowing you to withdraw cash as needed.

Al Baha is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other city, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but standard precautions should still be taken.

In case of emergency, dial 997 for medical emergencies, 998 for fire, and 999 for police assistance. Al Baha has several hospitals and medical centers that provide emergency services. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public areas. Women should wear abayas and headscarves, while men should avoid wearing shorts in public. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection and follow the local prayer times. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. For men, a slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Al Baha like a local, visit the local souqs (markets) where you can buy traditional Saudi goods and fresh produce. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the historical village of Dhee Ayn, known for its ancient stone houses, and the picturesque Raghadan Forest Park, which offers stunning views and picnic spots.