Asir’s 2,400m-high Fog Walk attracts tourists seeking to beat the heat

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The Fog Walk promenade, at more than 2,400 meters above sea level in Saudi Arabia’s southern Asir region. (SPA)
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The Fog Walk promenade, at more than 2,400 meters above sea level in Saudi Arabia’s southern Asir region. (SPA)
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The Fog Walk promenade, at more than 2,400 meters above sea level in Saudi Arabia’s southern Asir region. (Supplied)
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Updated 25 July 2025
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Asir’s 2,400m-high Fog Walk attracts tourists seeking to beat the heat

  • Asir earmarked for multibillion-dollar tourism investment
  • Region’s mountains, forests have become top attractions

RIYADH: The Fog Walk promenade, at more than 2,400 meters above sea level in Saudi Arabia’s southern Asir region, has become a major attraction for those wanting to beat the heat this summer.

Located in the Al-Namas governorate, it is 7 km in length and has panoramic views of the Tihama plains coastal area, the Saudi Press Agency reported recently.

The region’s climate is typically foggy and mild in summer, with temperatures rarely going above 30 degrees Celsius, while other parts of the country are averaging above 40.

There are also towering mountains and dense forests for visitors to enjoy.

The promenade has wide paths, seating and rest areas, as well as food trucks, cafes and stalls selling handicrafts and traditional food from the region.

The annual Summer of Al-Namas festival includes folk art performances, sports competitions, an International Sculpture Forum, and a range of open cultural evenings.

Recent developments from the local authorities at the promenade include night lighting, improved green spaces and additional support services to promote the tourism industry.

The Asir Development Authority aims to attract 8 million tourists to the region by 2030. A SR1.3 billion ($346.5 billion) entertainment complex is being developed and slated for completion in 2025.

Its offerings will include arcade games, theme park rides, cinema, indoor golf course, bowling, and go-kart track.

As a part of Vision 2030, an additional SR6 billion will be invested into the region’s tourism industry. The Asir Development Authority is aiming to increase this to SR9 billion.


King Abdulaziz Foundation reveals rare images from king’s 1916 Basra visit

Updated 20 December 2025
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King Abdulaziz Foundation reveals rare images from king’s 1916 Basra visit

  • Photographs form part of a wider collection documented by British photographer Gertrude Bell

RIYADH: The King Abdulaziz Foundation has revealed archival photographs documenting King Abdulaziz’s tour of the outskirts of Basra in 1916, a visit that came at an early stage of his efforts to build regional relationships.

One of the photographs, taken by British photographer Gertrude Bell, shows King Abdulaziz standing with his men in the Basra desert, the Saudi Press Agency reported. 

The image reflects his early political and diplomatic engagement in the region, as he sought to strengthen ties with neighboring areas and engage with the wider Arab and international community, SPA added.

The photograph forms part of a wider collection documented by Bell, which records key developments and transformations across the Arabian Peninsula during the early 20th century.

The Basra visit holds particular significance in King Abdulaziz’s journey as a unifying leader. 

Rather than crossing borders in pursuit of power, the visit reflected an approach focused on stability, cooperation and long-term regional harmony, laying the groundwork for a leadership style defined by pragmatism and openness, SPA said.