The Jazan region of Saudi Arabia offers a diverse range of environmental treasures and tourist attractions, and authorities have been working to develop its potential in recent years through a number of programs and initiatives in line with the aims of Saudi Vision 2030. As a result the region has become one of the Kingdom’s leading tourism destinations.
Jibal Al-Qahar, or Al-Qahar Mountains, in Al-Raith, for example, rank among the most beautiful tourist sites in the country. Located about 130 kilometers northeast of Jazan, the incredible shapes of its unique rock formations, steep slopes, deep canyons and narrow valleys, including the famous Wadi Lajab, are breathtaking.
The mountains offer a captivating aesthetic landscape that serves as a backdrop to cities and villages where residents have learned to coexist with the rugged terrain. A wide variety of plant life flourishes in the mountains and valleys, including some rare trees, including al-shatb, which is similar to a palm tree, junipers and pines.
The mountains are increasingly popular with tourists. Some want to relax and enjoy the scenic splendor and serenity as they explore the valleys; the more adventurous want to climb in the unique mountain environment.
For those with an interest in history and heritage, there is also archaeological evidence of the previous residents of the area dating back thousands of years.
ThePlace: Al-Qahar Mountains in Jazan region ranks among KSA’s most beautiful tourist sites
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ThePlace: Al-Qahar Mountains in Jazan region ranks among KSA’s most beautiful tourist sites
- The mountains offer a captivating aesthetic landscape that serves as a backdrop to cities and villages where residents have learned to coexist with the rugged terrain
Where We Are Going Today: Ana Starter Sourdough Factory in Dammam
Since returning to live in the Kingdom after years abroad with the best bakeries at my fingertips, I have been on a mission to find suitable sourdough locally. I sampled many mediocre ones, but one would rise above the rest: Ana Starter Sourdough Factory.
I first met founder Aisha Al-Omair at the Juthoor Farmer’s Market and tried her bread then. I liked it immediately.
“Ana Starter Sourdough Factory started as a passion for creating and fermenting the healthiest bread and introducing it to the Saudi market,” she told me at the time.
It began as a personal mission then expanded — like the dough — to serve the community.
“For a long time, I’ve suffered feeding my kids proper bread. The breads that were available at the supermarkets or at local bakeries had instant yeast, that never really took time to ferment, and therefore, when you consume the average bread, you notice some stiffening, you notice indigestion, you notice bloating and heartburn.”
Indeed, I did not feel any bloating or heartburn after devouring a slice or a few so I recently went on a quest to find more.
I ventured to Dammam to find her factory shop. It is a tiny slither of a place — I almost missed it while driving past factories in the Industrial City.
The shop comes with a decadent whiff of delicious bread.
Upon entering, you will see fridges stocked with bread and goodies like jams and butters (from other brands) that complement the bread well.
The sourdough offerings include jalapeno cheddar, zataar, plain and about a dozen other flavors.
The hassawi sourdough, made with local dates from neighboring Al-Ahsa, quickly became my favorite. It has little bits of dates tucked inside like tiny treasures.
Each slice is separated with a sheet, making it easy to freeze and pull out what you need without slices sticking together.
Fluffy with a rustic crust, it is great for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or slathering with salted butter.
My freezer is now packed with loaves.
At around SR45 ($12) per loaf, the price is slightly steep for the local market, but the superior quality is worth the extra dough.
Each day, they post on Instagram Stories showing what is available for pickup — and the quantity of each item.
Ordering is easy: Send a DM to reserve a loaf, swing by the shop, or opt for delivery.
• For more details, check their Instagram @anaastarter.
