Coolest Places in Saudi Arabia for Summer Travel

1. Abha – A Refreshing Mountain Escape

Located in the Asir region, Abha is one of the coolest destinations in Saudi Arabia during summer. Sitting at over 2,000 metres above sea level, the city enjoys mild temperatures, often between 18°C and 28°C.

The atmosphere here feels calm and refreshing. Mornings begin with cool air and light fog, while afternoons are ideal for exploring nature. The surrounding mountains are often covered in greenery during the season, offering a striking contrast to the desert landscapes found elsewhere in the country.

Visitors can enjoy cable car rides across valleys, explore art spaces like Al-Muftaha Village, and take in panoramic views from nearby peaks. Abha is perfect for travellers looking to slow down and reconnect with nature.

Distance from capital:

Approximately 950 km from Riyadh

How to get there:

• Flight: 1 hour 45 minutes | USD 80–150

• Bus: 16–18 hours | USD 40–60

• Car: Long drive (12–14 hours)

Things to do:

•  Explore Asir National Park and forest trails

•  Ride the cable car over mountain valleys

•  Visit Al-Muftaha Art Village

•  Enjoy viewpoints at Jabal Soudah nearby

Abha offers cool temperatures (18–28°C), misty mornings, and green landscapes — ideal for a relaxed summer break.

2. Taif – The Summer Capital

Taif has long been known as a summer retreat in Saudi Arabia. Located in the Sarawat Mountains, it offers cooler weather compared to nearby lowland cities.

The city combines natural beauty with cultural experiences. Scenic mountain roads, rose farms, and open parks make it an ideal destination for relaxed travel. Even during summer, evenings in Taif are pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor walks.

Visitors can drive along the winding Al Hada road, visit local rose farms, explore parks like Al Rudaf, and enjoy views from cable cars. Taif offers a balanced mix of comfort, accessibility, and scenic charm.

Distance from capital:

• About 870 km from Riyadh

• About 170 km from Jeddah

How to get there:

• Flight (to Taif Regional Airport): USD 70–120 

• Car from Jeddah: 2–3 hours | Fuel approx. USD 20–30

• Bus: USD 25–40 (₹2,000–₹3,300)

Things to do:

•  Drive along Al Hada mountain road

•  Visit rose farms and perfume factories

•  Explore Al Rudaf Park

•  Take scenic cable car rides

Taif is known for its cooler evenings, mountain views, and peaceful atmosphere.

3.  Al Bahah – Forests and Quiet Landscapes

Al Bahah is one of the most underrated summer destinations in Saudi Arabia. Located in the southwestern highlands, it is known for its forests, mountain cliffs, and cooler climate.

The region feels peaceful and less crowded, making it ideal for travellers who prefer quiet experiences. The greenery, fresh air, and scenic viewpoints create a relaxing atmosphere.

Visitors can walk through forest parks, explore traditional villages like Dhee Ayn, and enjoy panoramic views of valleys and mountains. For photographers and nature lovers, Al Bahah offers some of the most visually striking landscapes in the country.

Distance from capital:

• Around 850 km from Riyadh

• About 380 km from Jeddah

How to get there:

•  Flight: Limited routes | USD 90–160

•  Car from Jeddah: 5–6 hours | Fuel approx. USD 40–60

•  Bus: USD 30–50

Things to do:

•  Walk through Raghadan Forest Park

•  Visit Dhee Ayn heritage village

•  Enjoy scenic mountain viewpoints

•  Explore local markets and traditional food

Al Bahah is perfect for slow travel, photography, and nature exploration.

4. Jabal Soudah – The Coolest Peak

Jabal Soudah, near Abha, is the highest mountain in Saudi Arabia. Its altitude creates a cooler environment, often with mist and clouds drifting through the landscape.

The experience here feels very different from typical summer destinations in the region. The air is cooler, the surroundings are green, and the views stretch across deep valleys.

Travellers can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and simply taking in the scenery. On some days, the cloud cover adds a dramatic touch, making it especially appealing for photographers.

Distance from Abha:

Around 25 km (45–60 minutes drive)

How to get there:

 Taxi from Abha: USD 20–40

 Rental car: USD 40–70 per day

Things to do:

•  Hiking and nature walks

•  Paragliding over valleys

•  Visiting Soudah Park

•  Watching cloud formations and sunsets

At over 3,000 metres above sea level, temperatures here are noticeably cooler, often requiring a light jacket even in summer.

5. Umluj – A Breezy Coastal Escape

For those who prefer the sea, Umluj offers a refreshing coastal alternative. Located along the Red Sea, it is known for its clear waters, white sand beaches, and peaceful islands.

While the temperatures remain warm, the sea breeze makes the environment more comfortable, especially in the early morning and evening. The calm setting makes it ideal for relaxation.

Visitors can enjoy island hopping, snorkelling, boat rides, and quiet beach time. Umluj is often compared to tropical destinations, offering a laid-back and scenic coastal experience.

Distance from capital:

• About 1,100 km from Riyadh

• Around 500 km from Jeddah

How to get there:

 Flight (via Yanbu): USD 100–180

 Car from Jeddah: 6–7 hours | Fuel approx. USD 50–70 

Things to do:

•  Island hopping in the Red Sea

•  Snorkelling and diving

•  Boat tours and beach picnics

•  Sunset views along the coast

While temperatures are warm, the sea breeze and water activities make Umluj a refreshing summer destination.

These destinations offer relief from the heat due to their geography. Mountain regions like Abha, Taif, and Al Bahah benefit from elevation, resulting in cooler temperatures. Coastal areas like Umluj provide comfort through sea breezes and water-based activities.

Summer travel in Saudi Arabia does not have to mean extreme heat. With the right destinations, it can be comfortable, scenic, and memorable.

From the misty mountains of Abha to the quiet forests of Al Bahah and the breezy shores of Umluj, these places offer a refreshing alternative to typical summer travel.

For travellers seeking something different, Saudi Arabia reveals a side that is calm, green, and unexpectedly cool — perfect for a unique summer journey.