Latest news with #AliAlSawat
Arab News
22-06-2025
- Arab News
Raghadan Forest Park attracts summer visitors to Sarawat peaks
RIYADH: Raghadan Forest Park, which is set on the slopes of the Sarawat Mountains just west of Baha city, is one of the region's most prominent ecotourism destinations, the Saudi Press Agency recently reported. Covering about 483,000 sq. meters and rising more than 1,700 meters above sea level, the park offers a mild climate and scenic views. Located about 4 km from central Baha, it features green spaces, walking paths, shaded seating areas, and various recreational facilities. The 20,000 sq. meter Bahjat Raghadan Park — a recent development by Baha Municipality — boasts an artificial waterfall, an open-air theater, children's play areas, and the Lavender Garden, which connects to a central plaza and a 500-meter stone walkway. Ali Al-Sawat, the Baha region's governor, told the SPA that Raghadan Forest Park was 'a leading environmental and tourism landmark in the region.' He said this year's developments included sidewalk upgrades covering 1,470 meters over an area of 3,870 sq. meters; an enhancement of an 11,500 sq. meter section of the park; and a new 230-meter walking path. The park's infrastructure supports high visitor volumes, with 384,787 sq. meters of green space, 1,230 parking spaces (including 42 for individuals with disabilities), 14 playgrounds, and 122 restrooms. Raghadan Forest Park also hosts entertainment and cultural events in the Baha Summer Program to help enrich the experience of visitors while promoting domestic tourism.
Asharq Al-Awsat
22-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudi Arabia's Al-Baha Prepares for Cultural Events
Al-Baha Region is gearing up for an exceptional summer season under the slogan 'Color Your Summer,' featuring over 500 diverse events across 80 fully equipped venues in five Saudi governorates. The lineup includes artistic and musical performances, circus festivals, magic shows, and varied recreational and cultural activities. Mayor of Al-Baha Region Ali Al-Sawat stated that the municipality and local authorities have completed early preparations by upgrading tourist sites, enhancing infrastructure, and coordinating with various government and private entities. These efforts aim to deliver a vibrant and safe summer experience that meets the expectations of both residents and visitors. He noted these events play a vital role in advancing the Kingdom's goal of establishing itself as a global tourism hub, renowned for its rich diversity and unique offerings, in accordance with Saudi Vision 2030. He further underscored that Al-Baha, with its stunning natural landscapes and distinctive tourist attractions, continues to be a key attraction for domestic and international tourism.
Arab News
07-06-2025
- Arab News
Families flock to Baha festivities to beat summer heat this Eid
RIYADH: As temperatures rise across Saudi Arabia, the Baha region has become a popular holiday destination, opening 80 parks, 30 tourist sites, 20 rural farms and 25 heritage locations to attract visitors seeking cooler weather during Eid Al-Adha. The mountainous region's moderate climate has made it appealing to families and young travelers looking to escape the heat affecting other parts of the Kingdom during the holiday, a Saudi Press Agency report said. Ali Al-Sawat, mayor of Baha, outlined preparations for the expected visitor increase. Municipal teams carried out maintenance of public facilities, upgraded lighting, improved landscaping, enhanced main roads and public squares, installed interactive displays and sculptures, and supported volunteer teams. Authorities stepped up cleaning and environmental health efforts while increasing monitoring of food establishments, Al-Sawat said. The holiday program includes more than 50 cultural, entertainment, community events and volunteer initiatives, such as gift and flower distributions, children's theater performances at Raghdan, Al-Hussam and Al-Hawiya parks, digital displays, charity visits to the elderly and patients, appearances by cartoon characters, and volunteer support for organization, cleaning and pilgrims. In a gesture to Hajj pilgrims, authorities will distribute 3,000 roses and umbrellas in Baha, each with QR codes linking to pilgrimage guidance developed with regional Hajj coordination offices. The region's 20 rural farms attract families with recreational facilities set in agricultural environments, the SPA reported. Fahd Al-Zahrani, regional director of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, said that his office regulated and supported these farms, issued licenses for rural lodges according to regulations, and helped operators to access government programs, including the Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development initiative. Baha's 25 architectural heritage sites highlight the national identity by showcasing ancient civilizations and contribute to the local economy. These sites continue to attract domestic and international visitors interested in Saudi Arabia's cultural heritage, the SPA added.
