Topographic Map of Saudi Arabia

Description:
This map shows landforms in Saudi Arabia.

A topographic map of Saudi Arabia reveals dramatic variations in elevation across the country, from sea level at the coastal regions to over 3,000 meters in the western highlands. The country's topography can be divided into several distinct regions, each with unique characteristics.

The western region features the most significant elevations, where the Sarawat Mountains form a steep escarpment rising from the Red Sea coastal plain (Tihamah). This mountain range includes the country's highest point, Jabal Sawda at 3,133 meters (10,279 feet), located in the Asir Mountains. The elevation gradually decreases eastward, forming a series of plateaus that eventually merge into the central regions.

Central Saudi Arabia is characterized by the Najd Plateau, with elevations ranging from 762 to 1,525 meters (2,500 to 5,000 feet). This plateau includes numerous wadis and isolated mountain ranges, such as Jabal Tuwayq. The eastern regions slope gently towards the Persian Gulf, where elevations drop to sea level across coastal plains and salt flats known as sabkhas.

The northern regions show relatively flat topography with occasional escarpments and gravel plains, while the southern part of the country is dominated by the Rub' al Khali desert, featuring sand dunes reaching heights of up to 250 meters (820 feet). These dunes form various patterns visible on topographic maps, including linear, crescent, and star-shaped formations.