Al-baha: Traditional Al-Assah (village guards) performances added an authentic heritage touch to the ninth Al-Atawilah Heritage Festival in Al-Baha Region, featuring military-style parades, spirited chants, and whistle calls. Dressed in their distinctive traditional uniforms, the performers recreated the role of the historic village guards, reflecting a bygone era.
According to Saudi Press Agency, participants in the Al-Assah performances reenact the duties once carried out by village police, offering visitors an authentic portrayal of the historical role Al-Assah played in maintaining security in villages. Many visitors are keen to take commemorative photos with the performers and ask about their duties. To ensure historical authenticity, the festival's organizing committee recreated the guards' original official uniform, consisting of olive-green trousers, a shirt, belt, and ghutra, along with the government-issued rifles they once carried and military boots.
The festival's organizing committee has also ensured a diverse program of accompanying activities to cater to visitors of all ages and interests. The festival continues to showcase the region's cultural heritage through its entertainment program as part of efforts to highlight its rich cultural diversity and strengthen its appeal as a destination that blends nature, heritage, and traditional arts.