Road to Altuwair: Navigating the 9.57% Gradient in the Asir Mountains
Altuwair is a high mountain settlement at an elevation of 2,618 meters (8,589 ft) above sea level in the Asir Region of southwestern Saudi Arabia. The paved climb through the Asir Mountains links the lowland village of Abs with the high ridge via Route 2212 and Route 3525 (Al-Namas Road).
| Road facts: Altuwair (Route 2212 / 3525) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Asir Region (Saudi Arabia) |
| Elevation | 2,618 m (8,589 ft) |
| Length | 17.6 km (10.93 miles) from Abs |
| Elevation Gain | 1,685 m (5,528 ft) |
| Average Gradient | 9.57% |
| Road Name | Route 2212 / Route 3525 (Al-Namas Road) |
| Surface | Paved asphalt (Continuous switchbacks) |
Where is the road to Altuwair located?
The road ascends the Asir Mountain Range in southwestern Saudi Arabia. The climb starts near Abs (at the Agadir Hall junction) and heads east along Route 2212 and Route 3525 toward the mountain plateau of Altuwair and Al-Namas.
Is the road to Altuwair paved?
Yes. The entire 17.6-kilometer route is fully paved with asphalt. The roadbed features continuous hairpins and tight switchbacks carved directly into the steep mountain slopes without centerlines or protective outer barriers in several upper sectors.
How steep is the road to Altuwair?
The climb is exceptionally steep, gaining 1,685 vertical meters over just 17.6 kilometers. This yields a sustained average gradient of 9.57% across the entire route, with individual ramps exceeding this angle on the inner apex of the tightest switchbacks.
What hazards exist when driving to Altuwair?
The main physical hazards are brake overheating on the continuous 9.57% descent, rapid mountain fog reducing visibility to under 10 meters, and rockfalls triggered by seasonal rains in the Asir peaks. High ambient temperatures during summer months put heavy thermal load on engine cooling systems during the climb.
Road suggested by: jorge manuel gómez sánchez
Pic: Faisal Al-shehri