About Wadi Fatima Dam
Wadi Fatima Dam is one of the most prominent water landmarks in the Makkah Al-Mukarramah region and one of the largest dams in the western region. The valley is located between Makkah and Jeddah on the Al-Jumum road, approximately 45 kilometers from Jeddah. The valley is 210 kilometers long and flows from east to west, starting from the highlands of Al-Sarawat near Taif and reaching Al-Khamrah south of Jeddah.
The massive dam was built in 1405 AH (1985 AD) to store floodwaters and utilize them for irrigating farms and recharging groundwater in the region. The dam is famous for its stunning views during flood seasons and becomes a destination for families during the rainy seasons.
Why is it called Wadi Fatima Dam?
The valley was formerly known as Wadi Mar Al-Dahran or Batn Mar. There are many stories about why it is called Wadi Fatima, the most plausible being that it is named after a righteous woman who lived in the area and was known for her generosity and good character.
The valley was once inhabited by the ‘Akk tribe, later settled by the Khuza’ah tribe and the Banu Al-Dail bin Bakr from the Kinanah tribe. Today, the valley passes through several villages, the most important of which are Al-Jumum, Mustawrah, and Hada’.
What can you do at Wadi Fatima Dam?
Visiting Wadi Fatima Dam is a delightful experience, especially for families who love natural atmospheres. The main activities you can do include:
- Family Picnics: The area around the dam is peaceful with green spaces suitable for gatherings and relaxation.
- Photography: The view of the dam with the surrounding mountains offers stunning shots.
- Watching Floods: During the rains, the sight of water cascading down the mountains is awe-inspiring and beautiful.
- Visiting Nearby Villages: Al-Jumum village is one of the oldest in the region and worth exploring.
- Camping: For adventure lovers, there are suitable camping spots around the valley.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Wadi Fatima Dam is from November to March, during moderate weather conditions. After rainfall, the scenery is spectacular as the dam fills with water and the surrounding areas turn green. It is best to visit in the morning or evening when the weather is pleasant.
Nearby Activities
Since the location is close to Jeddah and Makkah, you can combine your visit with:
- A visit to Wadi Na’man Dam in Makkah.
- A trip to Jeddah to stroll along the corniche.
- A journey to Taif to enjoy its cool atmosphere.
Facilities and Services
The area is still natural with limited services, so it is advisable to bring your own food and drinks. The nearest gas station and shops are in the nearby Al-Jumum village. There are some small prayer areas around the dam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is Wadi Fatima Dam located?
It is located on the Al-Jumum road between Makkah and Jeddah, approximately 45 kilometers from the center of Jeddah.
Is entry free?
Yes, Wadi Fatima Dam is open to the public free of charge.
Are there any nearby restaurants?
The nearest restaurants are in Al-Jumum village and in the city of Jeddah. It is advisable to prepare food from home before the visit.
When is the best time to visit the dam?
In winter and spring (November – March), especially after rainfall.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, it is suitable for families and children, but remember it is a natural area with no playgrounds or entertainment facilities.
Are there camping spots?
Some visitors camp in the open areas near the valley, but there are no organized campsites.
What is the height of Wadi Fatima Dam?
The dam is approximately 44 meters high, 270 meters long, and has a storage capacity of about 33 million cubic meters.
