Ain Heet Cave

Ain Heet is a collapse in the limestone of the Jubail escarpment southeast of Riyadh, entered through a large opening in the cliff and descending steeply over boulders and scree for around a hundred and fifty metres to a pool of clear, still, salty water at the bottom, part of the regional water table. The cave was a known water source in the past and appears in accounts of the area. There is no development: no steps, lighting, handrail or staff, and the descent is a scramble over loose rock in the dark requiring a torch. People have been injured here. The pool is not suitable for swimming and doing so is discouraged.

What you actually see

• The cliff entrance - the large opening in the escarpment face.
• The descent - the scramble over boulders down into the dark.
• The underground pool - the still saline water at the bottom.
• The escarpment - the Jubail cliff line the cave is cut into.

When to go

November to March for the approach and the climb; summer heat outside the cave is severe. Go with company and a reliable torch. Weekends bring local visitors.

Honest expectations

The cave is completely unmanaged with no lighting, steps or rescue. The descent is steep, loose and genuinely hazardous. Litter inside is a serious problem. The pool water is saline and swimming is unwise.

Nearby

Al Kharj lies southeast; Riyadh is northwest.