Rock art, which includes various forms of artistic expression on rock surfaces, exists worldwide and spans a wide range of cultures and time periods. From ancient cave paintings to petroglyphs carved into rock faces, rock art provides insight into the beliefs, practices, and daily lives of past societies. One notable example is the Ḥimā Cultural Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Located in the Najran Province of Saudi Arabia, this area is renowned for its extensive rock art complex, considered one of the largest in the world. It features thousands of inscriptions and rock drawings that depict hunting scenes, wildlife, plants, symbols, and tools, representing a continuous cultural history that spans 7,000 years.
Located in an arid, mountainous region of southwest Saudi Arabia, approximately 130 km north of Najran, this site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2021, acknowledging its "outstanding universal value." It showcases a cultural tradition that has endured for 7,000 years and features a diverse collection of rock art images that illustrate various aspects of life.
According to UNESCO, the site has been marked by travellers and armies who camped there, leaving behind a significant collection of rock inscriptions and petroglyphs over the centuries. This location is also recognised as the oldest known toll station along an important ancient desert caravan route, where the wells of Bi’r Ḥimā have been providing fresh water for at least 3,000 years.
The Ḥimā Cultural Area in Najran features a rich collection of rock art that illustrates various aspects of ancient life, including hunting scenes, flora, fauna, and human activities. The petroglyphs and inscriptions reflect a continuous cultural heritage that spans from prehistoric times through the medieval period and into the present day.
The rock art includes images of various animals, with over 1,800 depictions of camels and more than 1,300 representations of human figures, alongside scenes of hunting. This rock art serves as a visual record of life and culture over a long period, from prehistoric times to the Islamic era. Inscriptions in multiple scripts, such as Southern Arabian, Thamudic, Nabataean, and Arabic, have been uncovered, highlighting the diverse influences on the region.
By Air: The easiest way to reach Najran is by air. Najran Domestic Airport (EAM) is well connected to major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah via daily domestic flights. Most major Indian cities offer direct flights to Jeddah and Riyadh. From the airport, the Ḥimā site is roughly a two-hour drive (around 150 km) to the northwest.
By Road: If you're up for a scenic drive, you can rent a car and travel from nearby cities. The drive from Riyadh takes about 10 hours, while from Abha, it’s approximately 4.5 hours. The roads are generally in good condition, but it's best to start early and check local travel advisories.
At the Ḥimā Cultural Area in Najran, visitors can explore thousands of ancient rock carvings depicting animals, hunting scenes, and early scripts. The historic Ḥimā wells, which are over 3,000 years old, remain a fascinating sight. Adventurous travellers can hike nearby Jabal Saidah and Jabal al-Kawkab to discover more rock art and enjoy stunning desert views. Engaging with local guides offers valuable insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
You can visit nearby attractions like the ancient trenches of Al-Ukhdood and the traditional mud-brick Al-Aan Palace. It’s best to visit during the cooler months and carry plenty of water for your journey.
The best time to visit Ḥimā Cultural Area in Najran is during the cooler months, from October to March. During this period, temperatures are much more comfortable for exploring the desert landscape and outdoor rock art sites. Summers in Najran can be extremely hot, often soaring above 40 degrees Celsius, which can make sightseeing challenging. Visiting in autumn, winter, or early spring ensures a more pleasant experience with milder weather and clearer skies.