I have returned to Saudi Arabia for the second edition of the HIGHLANDER event that took place in the Aseer region. When I traveled last year to photograph the very first HIGHLANDER event ever held in that country, I expected to encounter only desert landscapes. However, the environment that welcomed me was completely different. This year, I knew exactly where I was going and what to expect, which meant I arrived much better prepared and with a clear vision in mind of the kind of photographs I wanted to create.
Out of all HIGHLANDER locations, Saudi Arabia was the one that surprised me the most last year. I anticipated the endless desert, but instead, we were surrounded by lush high-altitude forests, rare plant species, dramatic cliffs, ancient villages, and winding hiking trails. We were welcomed with incredible hospitality in places such as Rijal Almaa and Al Yanfa, where the scent of spices, the warmth of Arabic coffee, and traditional songs and dances introduced us to the heart of Saudi culture.
The dramatic peaks of Jabal Soudah challenged hikers, but also me as a photographer, with steep climbs and rewarded us with sweeping views of valleys and rivers below. Lower down, monkeys moved freely across forested paths, adding to the charm of the journey, while the surreal canyons of Al Habala offered some of the most exhilarating terrain we encountered.
This year brought a new chapter, a new route, and an even deeper connection to the region. With a handpicked group of 20 people joining this edition, the event set out to explore a different part of Aseer, focusing on both the hike itself and creative storytelling through content creation.
The adventure led us to the Hussak Camping Area in Tababb, a place that perfectly captured the warmth and authenticity of local life. Here, participants experienced two unforgettable workshops: crafting traditional flower crowns and learning to prepare local dishes in a hands-on cooking class. The hospitality of the people who welcomed us made every moment feel personal, a reminder of how deeply culture and nature intertwine in this region.
Over three days, participants hiked across new landscapes that revealed fresh perspectives: quiet forests, wide mountain plateaus, cliffside views, and paths shifting between soft greenery and rugged stone. The group was a mix of hikers, creators, and adventurers from around the world, and each of them brought their own energy, turning every climb, campfire, and shared meal into a lasting memory.
The HIGHLANDER route in Saudi Arabia is a truly special setting, leading through a variety of changing landscapes. From desert terrain and rocky areas to forested sections filled with remarkable trees, each environment is defined by its own distinctive colors and striking stone formations. This constantly shifting scenery is particularly attractive for photography and adds to the overall dynamism of the event.
The equipment I used for this event was intentionally kept very light, as I usually prefer for projects like this. You can find the details below.
What proved to be a particular challenge this time were the weather conditions, which were unusual and extreme for those of us who do not often spend time in desert environments. Although the sun was not overly intense, strong winds were present, and the air was extremely dry. Because of these conditions, our faces had to remain covered at all times, as the skin dries out and cracks very quickly in such an environment.
As the Head of Photography for the HIGHLANDER series, I enjoy every location where this event takes place. However, Saudi Arabia remains a unique experience for me, as the setting in which I photograph is deeply inspiring and almost always offers much more than I initially expect.
ABOUT HIGHLANDER
HIGHLANDER is an international hiking and outdoor adventure series that has been bringing people together through multi-day hiking experiences for nearly a decade. Founded in Europe, HIGHLANDER was created to make long-distance hiking accessible to a wider audience by combining well-organized routes, strong logistical support, and a sense of community. Today, the series takes place across multiple continents, including Europe, the United States, the Middle East, and beyond, offering participants the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes while promoting sustainability, personal challenge, and connection with nature and local cultures.
INSIDE THE SHOOT WITH PREDRAG VUCKOVIC
The experience that Predrag Vuckovic brings to outdoor photography is truly invaluable. His ability to capture movement and action in a wide range of environments, whether in mountains, forests, or urban settings, makes him one of the rare photographers who truly knows how to integrate location into the very spirit of the event he is documenting.
It is precisely this experience and expertise, combined with his distinct visual vision, that have led to his role as Head of Photography for the entire HIGHLANDER series. This global hiking series takes place around the world, from the United States, across Europe, and all the way to the Middle East. In cases where he is not able to attend an event in person, he works closely with local photographers, providing briefings and developing coverage plans to ensure the event is documented consistently and at the highest level, with the best possible photographs delivered from each location.
The equipment used for HIGHLANDER Saudi Arabia
- Camera Nikon Z7II
- Lenses: 35 mm f 1.2, 14 – 24 mm f 2.8, LAOWA 10 mm f 2.8.
Bringing together experience, vision, and precise execution, Predrag Vuckovic ensures that every HIGHLANDER event is documented not just as a hike, but as a complete visual experience.