In the heart of the Aseer region in southwestern Saudi Arabia, tucked between the lush mountains and terraced landscapes, lies Rijal Alma — one of the Kingdom’s most iconic heritage villages. As part of our cultural documentary series at Stock Stop LTD, we recently completed a full production shoot in this historic village, bringing our international and local crew together to document the living history of this extraordinary place.
Located about 130 kilometers from Abha, Rijal Alma is known for its distinctive multi-story stone buildings, constructed with slate, clay, and wood — some over 400 years old. The village’s architecture is a reflection of Aseer’s unique mountainous character and the region’s rich trading history with Yemen and the Levant.
Our mission was not just to capture the beauty of the location, but to tell deep, personal stories of those who have kept the heritage alive. One of the most remarkable moments was filming the oldest stone mason in the village, a man who played a key role in the restoration of Rijal Alma’s structures over the past decades. His hands, marked by time, still shape stone with the same care passed down from generations before him.
We also interviewed the very first tour guide of Rijal Alma, a proud local who has dedicated years to sharing the village’s history with visitors and preserving its identity. Through him, we gained invaluable insights into the transformation of Rijal Alma — from a forgotten mountain village to a preserved UNESCO-nominated heritage site welcoming tourists from all over the world.
Our full crew traveled to the site equipped with cinema cameras, drone gear, and audio equipment to ensure every detail — from sweeping aerial shots of the mountain ranges to close-up interviews with local artisans — was documented with care. We worked closely with local coordinators and community members, ensuring that the shoot reflected both accuracy and respect for the region’s traditions.
Rijal Alma is a crown jewel of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 cultural preservation efforts. The village has been the focus of restoration and tourism development projects, aiming to attract heritage lovers and researchers from around the world. It’s a place where history isn’t just displayed — it’s lived.
As filmmakers passionate about heritage and storytelling, being in Rijal Alma felt like stepping into a history book — but one written with color, craftsmanship, and community spirit.
This documentary is part of a larger series exploring cultural and intangible heritage across Saudi Arabia, including traditional crafts, music, architecture, and the people who carry these legacies forward.
Stock Stop Team Filming in Rijal Almaa, Aseer.
The stone mason who helped rebuild the Rijal Almaa village
The Flower Men of Aseer
The view from the Soudah Mountains
Rijal Almaa, Aseer at night time
Above you will find a few photos from our time in Rijal Almaa—a place full of culture, character, and kind-hearted people. From the detailed stonework to the breathtaking mountain views, this village left a lasting impression on us.
Take a look at the moments we captured below.
We hope these images reflect just a glimpse of the beauty we experienced.
If you are from the Aseer region or anywhere else in Saudi Arabia and want to showcase your story, your place, or your people — we would love to hear from you.
📩 Contact us at: [email protected]
Let’s create something meaningful together.