Table of Contents
A Geographical Overview
Location: Western Saudi Arabia
Region: Part of the Arabian Shield
Significance: Historically and geologically important region
Introduction: Hejaz Mountains
The Hejaz Mountains are a prominent mountain range located in the western part of Saudi Arabia , forming the central segment of the country’s western highlands . Stretching from the north of Taif Governorate in Makkah al-Mukarramah Province to the south of al-Wajh City in Tabuk Province , these mountains play a crucial role in shaping the topography and climate of the region.
To the west, the Hejaz Mountains border the narrow Tihama Coastal Plain , which gradually narrows toward the north until it disappears entirely near the northern edges of the range. This coastal plain is marked by extensive lava fields and volcanic cones , adding to the region’s unique geological character.
Geographic Range
The Hejaz Mountains span across three major provinces:
- Makkah al-Mukarramah Province
- Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah Province
- Tabuk Province
These mountains overlook the Red Sea to the west and serve as the source of several wadis (valleys) that flow into the sea. Compared to the more rugged Sarawat Mountains further south, the Hejaz Mountains are generally lower in elevation and less steep.
Notable Peaks
The Hejaz Mountains include several notable peaks , with elevations reaching over 2,000 meters :
| Peak Name | Elevation (meters) |
|---|---|
| Mount Wirqan | 2,393 m (highest) |
| Mount Radwa | 2,282 m |
| Mount Idqis | 2,161 m |
| Mount al-Ward | 2,096 m |
| Mount Awf | 2,082 m |
| Mount al-Faqrah | 1,901 m |
| Mount Subh | 1,898 m |
| Mount Shamnasir | 1,618 m |
Valleys and Lava Fields
Numerous valleys originate from the Hejaz Mountains and drain into the Red Sea , including:
- Wadi Fatimah
- Wadi al-Safra
- Wadi al-Hamd
- Wadi al-Abwaa
The region also contains significant volcanic landscapes , such as:
- Harat Khaybar
- Harat Rahat
- Harat al-Raha
- Harat Uwayrid
These lava fields and volcanic plateaus contribute to the area’s distinct terrain and soil composition.
Conclusion
The Hejaz Mountains are not only a geographical feature but also a historically rich region that has influenced trade, pilgrimage, and settlement patterns throughout centuries. Their moderate elevation, volcanic origins, and strategic location make them a fascinating subject of study for geographers, historians, and geologists alike.
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