Jabal An-Nabi Shu'ayb
Mountain Highest mountain in Yemen and the Arabian Peninsula
Dominating western Yemen near Sanaa, Jabal An-Nabi Shu’ayb is the country’s highest summit. Trekkers visit mountain villages, terraced agriculture and cool highland air, though travel conditions vary with local security.
Jabal An-Nabi Shu’ayb is the highest mountain in Yemen and the Arabian Peninsula, with a summit elevation of 3,666 metres. It is located in Sanaa Governorate and is a prominent highland landmark in the region.
The mountain’s summit and high slopes are the main attractions, offering high-altitude hiking and expansive views across the Yemeni highlands. The peak is notable for its elevation rather than built features; routes to the summit are used by local hikers and shepherds.
The peak is a natural highland formation; the name links it to the prophetic figure Shu’ayb in local tradition. Over time the area has been used for grazing and local mountain activities rather than sustained settlement.
Jabal An-Nabi Shu’ayb sits roughly west of the city of Sanaa in the Sanaa Governorate, forming part of the highland terrain that surrounds the capital. The mountain rises directly from the surrounding terraced and steep slopes of the Yemeni highlands.
- Elevation: Summit reaches 3,666 metres above sea level, making it the highest point in Yemen and on the Arabian Peninsula.
- Climate/conditions: Best visited in clear weather for long-distance views; temperatures at the summit are significantly colder than in Sanaa and can drop below freezing in winter.
How to Get to Jabal An-Nabi Shu'ayb #
Jabal An‑Nabi Shu’ayb (Jabal Nabi Shu’ayb) is Yemen’s highest peak in the highlands near Sanaa. Access typically starts from Sanaa where visitors arrange transport and a local guide; the upper approaches are by local roads and tracks and the final ascent requires hiking.
Because roads and conditions in the region vary and travel can be restricted, arrange transport and local guidance in advance and follow current security and travel advice.
Best Time to Visit Jabal An-Nabi Shu'ayb #
Best visited in spring or autumn for milder daytime temperatures at elevation; winters can be cold with possible frost or snow on the summit.
Weather & Climate near Jabal An-Nabi Shu'ayb #
Jabal An-Nabi Shu'ayb's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with mild summers (peaking in June) and cold winters (coldest in December). Temperatures range from 0°C to 24°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is cold with highs of 17°C and lows of 1°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 3°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 7°C. Regular rainfall (80 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 10°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (79 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with 97 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 8°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 4°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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November
November is cold with highs of 17°C and lows of 1°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is the coolest month with highs of 16°C and lows of 0°C. The driest month with just 9 mm and mostly sunny skies.