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.

Highlights

• 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.

Before you go

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.