Imagine a mountain so high it touches the moon—that is Mount Fifa, nicknamed “Moon’s Neighbor” by the people of the south. The Fifa Mountains in the Jazan region are a rare natural tourist gem and home to some of Saudi Arabia’s most stunning mountain landscapes. In this article, we give you everything you need to know before visiting: activities, best times, must-see places, and all the practical details.
Who is it for: Families, nature lovers, hikers, nature photographers
Where is it located: East of Jazan region, southwest Saudi Arabia
Cost: Free—open to everyone
Best time to visit: October to March (winter and spring)
💡 Tip: The weather is moderate year-round thanks to the mountain’s elevation exceeding 2000 meters—but rain can fall suddenly, so bring an umbrella and a light jacket
Where exactly are the Fifa Mountains located?
Mount Fifa is located in the governorate of Fifaa (or Fifa), east of the Jazan region, approximately 100 kilometers from Jazan city. This mountain range is part of the Sarawat Mountains and stretches across a vast area along the Saudi-Yemeni border. From afar, it appears as a single pyramidal mountain, but in reality, it is a connected group of mountains.
Access is easy—a paved road from Jazan city (Fifa Road), and the car ride takes about an hour and a half. The road offers breathtaking views worth photographing.
What makes the Fifa Mountains unique?
Lush Vegetation
Fifa is different from any other mountain in Saudi Arabia—greenery covers the mountain from peak to base. The ancient agricultural terraces carved by ancestors into the rocky mountain are a sight to behold. Here, the famous Fifi coffee, bananas, mangoes, citrus fruits, and vegetables are grown. The humid climate and constant rainfall create exceptional vegetation, including dense forests like Khoshein Forests, which are worth exploring.
Historic Villages and Mud Houses
On the peaks of Fifa, you’ll find mountain villages hundreds of years old, with houses built from mud and stone in a unique architectural style that blends with the rugged terrain. Each village tells a story, and walking through the narrow alleys and agricultural terraces takes you on a journey through time.
Al-Khoba Hot Spring (Al-Waghra)
About 50 kilometers south of Jazan city lies Al-Khoba Hot Spring (also known as Al-Waghra), a mineral hot spring that flows from volcanic rocks at a temperature of up to 45 degrees Celsius. You can see the white steam rising from it from the main road! The water is rich in minerals and is used to treat rheumatism and skin diseases. Swimming or even soaking your feet in it is a unique experience.
Al-Abasiya—The Highest Peak
Al-Abasiya is the highest point on Mount Fifa, offering panoramic views that take your breath away. The area is equipped with comfortable seating provided by the municipality, where you can sit and admire the green terraces and mountains stretching to the horizon. The road to it is paved and easy to navigate.
Best Activities in Fifa Mountains
- Hiking and Camping — Fifa is perfect for walking among terraced farms and dense forests. Bring comfortable shoes and enough water.
- Visiting the Hot Spring — A relaxing therapeutic experience at Khoba’s mineral spring.
- Photography — The sunset views from Al-Abbasiya peak are breathtaking.
- Touring Heritage Villages — Discover ancient mud-brick architecture and learn about the culture of Fifa’s people.
- Tasting Fifa Coffee — Don’t miss the chance to drink authentic Fifa coffee at a traditional café.
- Visiting Khoshin Forests — Lush green areas perfect for family picnics.
Quick Facts
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | East of Jazan region, southwest Saudi Arabia |
| Elevation | Over 2,000 meters above sea level |
| Temperature | Moderate year-round (20-30°C in summer, 10-20°C in winter) |
| Entrance Fees | Free |
| Best Time to Visit | From October to March |
| Distance from Jazan | Approximately 100 kilometers (1.5 hours by car) |
| Famous Crops | Fifa coffee, bananas, mangoes, citrus fruits |
| Main Activities | Camping, hiking, photography, wellness tourism |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is entry to Fifa Mountains free?
Yes, entry to Fifa Mountain and the entire mountainous area is free. There are no ticket fees or subscriptions. Khoba’s hot spring is also free.
Is Fifa suitable for families and children?
Absolutely. The area is safe and family-friendly. There are seating areas and facilities in Al-Abbasiya and some other locations. However, be cautious with young children near the terraced farms as some are steep.
What is the best way to reach Fifa Mountains?
The best way is by private car. The road is paved and scenic. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one from Jazan or take a ride (Uber/Careem available).
Are there restaurants and hotels near Fifa?
There are limited options in Fifa villages and Fifa Province, but more choices are available in Jazan city. There are small rest stops and resorts in the area, and I recommend bringing food for hiking and picnics.
Final Word
Fifa Mountains are not just a tourist destination — they offer an exceptional experience that lets you see Saudi Arabia from a different perspective. Moderate climate, unparalleled natural scenery, and rich heritage. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or just want to escape city crowds — Fifa awaits you.
For more information on tourism in Saudi Arabia: الموقع الرسمي للسياحة السعودية — جبال فيفا
