Habalah, an attraction like no other

Habalah is a unique attraction in the Middle Eastern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This once inhabited village has now become a major tourist attraction due to its spectacular location and picturesque scenery. Today there are no resident people in Habalah and the only visitors are the multitude of tourists and their guides.

In the native tongue Habalah translates as the ‘hanging village’ and this name is entirely appropriate for the site. The scenic village is perched atop a thousand foot high cliff, and cannot be reached by motor vehicles. It is only accessible via cable car, and has the distinction of being the only such location in the region.

In the past when the village was inhabited it the residents reached their homes with the assistance of ropes which were attached to iron posts. This difficulty of access eventually led to the villagers leaving the site for more favourable locations.

Today however visitors will enjoy the scenic cable car ride to the former settlement in safety and comfort. Habalah has become especially noted for the intricate carvings on the doorways of its houses, which never fail to captivate the visitor. The tourist will also be mesmerized by the panoramic views over the terraced fields and the valley which may be enjoyed from the cliff top.

Saudi Arabia is the location of Islam’s holiest site, the city of Mecca. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the city, but all able-bodied Muslims who can afford the journey must undertake the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. This Hajj pilgrimage is one of the five central pillars in Sunni Islam as well as one of the principal branches of Shi’a Islam. More than three million Muslims from around the world make the journey during the month known as Dhu’l-Hijjah. Pilgrimages at other times of the year known as Umrah (the ‘minor pilgrimage’) are encouraged but are not mandatory.

Major sites during Hajj include the Kaaba and the Sacred Mosque. Pilgrims also visit several other sites of importance as part of the pilgrimage.

Amongst Makkah hotels an excellent choice is the Raffles Makkah Palace. This fine Makkah hotel never fails to meet the expectations of its esteemed clientele with excellent amenities and service.