JEDDAH: For 17 people with kidney-failure issues, a recent three-day journey to Abha offered a chance to step away from hospital routines and embrace joy, culture and the beauty of nature.
The trip, organized by the Charitable Health Promotion Association with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, combined medical care and psychological support for the participants aged 30 to 66.
They visited landmarks including Al-Soudah, Rijal Almaa, Al-Asal Hut, Al-Muftaha Art Village, as well as museums and traditional homes where they enjoyed the mountain climate and rich heritage of Asir.
Dr. Aisha Natto, chairperson of the board of directors of the Charitable Health Promotion Association, told Arab News that the trip reflected the integration of health and tourism.
“This is not just a journey, but a way to a beautiful life. Those patients leave behind the routine of the hospital to experience moments of joy and hope amidst the mountains and heritage paths of Abha,” she said.
She added that the experience highlights Saudi Tourism’s role in improving quality of life by offering patients peace of mind alongside treatment.
“In the historic palaces, they learn the stories of ancestors, and in authentic hospitality sessions, they savor the meaning of Saudi generosity, which revives the soul before the body,” she added.
The patients expressed their gratitude for the initiative and its positive impact.
Syrian participant Riyadh Sheikh said: “Today, we are in this beautiful part of the Kingdom … my happiness knows no bounds.”
He added: “They really gave us the opportunity to go out and live as others do … We enjoyed every minute of this trip since we arrived in Abha. We visited beautiful historic places, museums and learned so much about the Asir region and culture.”
Another patient, Fateh Mohammed Almeazab from Yemen, said: “Going to a beautiful (place) like Abha is not only very relaxing, but it can also improve your health and overall well-being and this is what we are all feeling after (an) enjoyable and educational three days.”
The trip concluded at Al-Muftaha Village, one of Abha’s most iconic cultural destinations.
