What is the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions Saudi Arabia? A land of deserts, right? That was my first thought, too, when I was invited to photograph a demo HIGHLANDER event taking place in the country. You can imagine my surprise when we arrived at the Aseer Province, and were greeted by lush forests, playful monkeys, canyons, and breathtaking viewpoints.
HIGHLANDER is a well-known hiking event that brings together hikers of all ages and experience levels to explore the beautiful natural landscapes of Europe, America, and Asia. I have been part of their adventures for several years now, so I was excited to experience Saudi Arabia. Although we were told in advance that it was nothing like we’d expect, I couldn’t fully grasp that until we arrived.
The aim of this demo event was to explore the location, trace the event tracks, and create some promotional photos. The 30 team members and ambassadors, myself included, were blown away by the incredible variety of landscapes that awaited us at every turn. Over several days, we hiked through diverse terrains, from dense high-altitude forests to lowlands dotted with unique vegetation, such as cactuses.
The adventure began in Rijal Alma, a UNESCO-protected village full of charm, where we were warmly welcomed by the local community. Beyond exploring the untamed nature of the area, we indulged in traditional cuisine, fragrant spices reflecting the region’s rich history, and the famous Arabic coffee – a symbol of the locals’ unmatched hospitality.
From there, the journey took us to the dramatic peaks of Jabal Soudah, Saudi Arabia’s highest peak, soaring over 3,000 meters. Hikers climbed to panoramic heights where they enjoyed the views of valleys and rivers stretching far below.
At lower altitudes, the trails went through forests teeming with wildlife, including monkeys that roamed freely among the trees.
The challenging terrain of Al Habala added an extra layer of adventure, with its towering cliffs and surreal canyons presenting awe-inspiring views. After tackling these challenges, the hospitality we received in the 900-year-old village of Al Yanfa felt like a well-earned reward.
The first official HIGHLANDER event in Saudi Arabia is set for November 2025.
For me, the biggest highlight was the unexpected diversity of the landscapes. It motivated me to capture some of the most incredible moments of hikers blending seamlessly into each environment.
The variety of the terrain reminded me of the Big Bear Lake HIGHLANDER event in California, but Saudi Arabia was a truly unique and wonderful surprise. I have no doubt that next year’s event will be a tremendous success.