Rock Climbing in Saudi Arabia

Is it absurd to think about Rock Climbing in Saudi Arabia?

Climbing in "secret garden", an incredible narrow canyon in NEOM

Well: kind of.

Saudi officially opened for tourism only in 2019. Before that, there was no tourist visa option available to enter Saudi Arabia (set aside the millions of "Spiritual Tourists" coming for millennia in Mecca for the muslim pilgrimage, the Hajj).

Having been closed to tourism for so long, also meant that, little is known about Saudi Arabia, and its natural wonders.

Most imagine this land as a single huge desert, but that's only one side of the country.

Yes, Saudi hosts tthe world's largest uninterrupted desert in the world, the Rub al Khali, also known as the "Empty Quarter" earning its name as it makes up approximately one-quarter of the Arabian Peninsula.

However, in the remaining land there are incredible mountain landscapes, as high as 3,000m (Jabal Soudah), sometimes getting snowfalls (like on Jebel Al Laws, the moses mountain) and lots of rock climbing possibilities, on Sandstone, Limestone and Granite.

Over 2023 and 2024 I had the privilege to live in Saudi and have climbed on a few sites that I am going to report here.

Note, despite Saudi having potentially unlimited climbing walls, only the following sites are bolted to date.

More resources could be found on the official Saudi Climbing Federation website: https://climbing.sa/climbing-crags/

#	Location	Crag	Rock type	Nr of Rutes	Topo
1	NEOM	Rise100	Sandstone	ca 100	Click here
2	Taiff	Olympic Crag	Granite	ca 40	Click here
3	Abha	Tanomah	Sandstone and Granite	ca 40	Click here
4	Riyadh	Wadi al-Akhu	Limestone	ca 35	Click here
5	Medina	Al Ula	Sandstone	2	Click here

NEOM Rock Climbing

Hard core climbers cheering friends in NEOM

Situated in the Tabuk Region (soon to be NEOM region), the crag is being bolted as an inauguration of the NEOM Adventure Sport division and the NEOM Beach games, which hosted in 2022 an IFSC climbing world cup with athletes coming from all over the world.

The crag is situated inside the NEOM Wildlife conservation reserve, which is a stunning desert with unique rock formations and re-wildened with animals that originally were roaming around this area but have been hunted out through the centuries.

Abha, Tanomah Rock Climbing

A serene climbing haven at 2,200 meters, where granite cliffs meet breathtaking highland vistas.

Climbing Friends with "The Book" multipitch route in the background

Tanomah, located at an altitude of approximately 2,200 meters in the Asir Mountains of Saudi Arabia, is a rising destination for rock climbing enthusiasts. Its granite cliffs and boulders offer a range of routes suitable for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly slabs to challenging overhangs. The rough granite texture provides excellent grip, while features like cracks and pockets add technical diversity. Climbers can enjoy a serene and less crowded experience, making it ideal for those seeking both adventure and solitude.

Beyond the climbing routes, Tanomah’s natural beauty captivates visitors with its terraced farms, juniper forests, and misty valleys. Seasonal waterfalls add to the allure, while local wildlife such as baboons and mountain gazelles highlight the area’s rich biodiversity. This tranquil and picturesque setting makes Tanomah an unforgettable destination for both climbers and nature lovers.

Taiff Rock Climbing

A granite paradise at 1,700 meters, blending thrilling climbs with the charm of Taif's natural beauty.

Olympic crag to the left, immerse in a mediterranean nature

Olympic Crag in Taif, situated at an altitude of approximately 1,700 meters, is a premier rock climbing destination in Saudi Arabia. Known for its granite cliffs, it offers a variety of climbing routes, from beginner to advanced levels. The rock’s unique formations and excellent friction provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for climbers. With its accessible location and high popularity, Olympic Crag attracts both local and international climbing enthusiasts.

The surrounding area of Taif is equally captivating, boasting lush gardens, rose farms, and sweeping views of the Sarawat Mountains. The cool highland climate, combined with the region’s vibrant flora and fauna, creates an inviting atmosphere for nature lovers. Whether scaling the cliffs or exploring the scenic landscapes, visitors to Olympic Crag are sure to find a memorable adventure.