Extending from the shimmering seas of the Arabian Gulf to the primal depths of the Rub’ Al Khali desert, Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province brims with off-beat attractions. The paths in the Eastern Province are thrilling due to fossil-studded caves and desert’s hidden treasures. Amidst the beauty of the desert sand, one will find the mysterious “Devil’s Thumb” that stands isolated in the heart of the Rub’ Al Khali desert. The structure is one of its kind, attracting tourists from around the world for the attached legends and picturesque beauty. Tourists visit the place to experience the mystical charm attached to the natural structure.
What is the Devil’s Thumb
The Devil’s Thumb, also known as the Judah Thumb, is a magnificent rock structure in the Arabian desert’s An Nafud area. It is roughly 160 kilometers from Dhahran and near Judah (the town). The rock stands out “like a sore thumb” in the vast desert. The Judah’s Thumb, a gigantic rock structure that rears out of the desert like a looming thumb, is located about a 10-minute journey northeast of the township of Judah. Further, it is about two and a half hours’ journey from Jubail.
While visiting Judah Thumb, tourists can explore the adjacent slopes, which are full of twists and turns in the shape of secret caverns and craggy rock formations. Tourists can watch the surrounding area on the camel’s back while traveling to Judah Thumb. One can also spend the night at Judah Thumb while camping and gazing at the star-studded sky.
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History of Judah Thumb
The name of this massive rock formation comes from the adjacent town of Judah. The history of the place is quite interesting and truly invokes the explorer spirit within tourists. The city of Judah and its gigantic thumb are located between Damman and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia’s eastern province. According to a legend, it is also known as the “Devil’s Thumb,” named by a native Boy Scout unit. This boulder stands out like a strange thumb in a fairly barren landscape. This colossal rock structure is found in the Arabian Desert’s An Nafud region, a 25,000-square-mile stretch (65,000 square km). The name “Devil’s Thumb” had been attributed to the site due to the mysterious nature of the isolated rock formation amidst the barren land.
Interesting facts about the Judah Thumb
Tourists might think that the most interesting fact about the “Devil’s Thumb” is its name or the colossal nature of the isolated rock formation. But that’s not the case. Here are some interesting facts about Judah’s Thumb:
- The name “Judah’s Thumb” is derived from the Hebrew Bible, which presents the Kingdom of Judah as an heir to the United Kingdom of Israel. The word refers to the unified monarchy ruled by biblical kings David, Solomon, and Saul and including the land of two historical realms, Israel and Judah.
- On a non-windy day, the “sore thumb” sticks out and can be seen even from 4 kilometers. Further, the site can be located and visited through a short drive from the town of Judah
- The site is home to numerous similar round rock formations, which have beautiful caves, making it a dream site for every camper. Campers can easily spot multiple constellations in the clear night sky while camping at sight.
Things to do at Judah’s Thumb
The site presents a great landscape worth visiting and spending time with family and friends. One can spend the night in beautiful surroundings created by the wonders of nature. Tourists can explore the nearby caves that provide a “never-before” experience under the star-clad night. They can also witness the sunrise or sunset that occurs at around 5 am in the morning and around 6 pm in the evening. The crimson red light of sunset on the structure creates an enticing view along with the background setting. Further, one can climb the numerous rock formations near the Judah Thumb’s as a part of the adventure. These rock formations also offer great backdrop for stunning pictures.
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How to reach Judah Thumb
It is roughly 160 kilometers from Dhahran and near Judah. The rock formation is rather easy to reach by automobile. While being off-road, the paths are sturdy, and they can be driven easily as most of them are on the gravel-like ground, particularly near the geological formation itself. The escarpment nearby is also extremely lovely and worth driving around. On the way to the the escarpment, there are several rocky four-wheel-drive paths, although some are exceedingly tough to maneuver, even with expertise.
Judah Thumb weather
As the devil’s thumb is located in Rub Al Khali desert, Judah Thumb has a very harsh weather during summers. The temperatures can reach above 45°C. Sand and wind storms also occur frequently in summer season. Hence, tourists are suggested to visit the location in winters when the climate is pleasantly moderate. The best time to visit the site is between the end of January, and the start of March, as the temperature is at its best. The skies are mostly clear during this time so that travelers can experience the best of the site without any hassle of thunder clouds and excess sandstorms.
Things to know before visiting Judah Thumb
There is no paved path to Judah Thumb. An automobile with considerable ground clearance is essential because the path is made out of crushed sand and rocks. The location is noted for its starry evenings, and camping is permitted. There are no amenities on-site, although there are shops in nearby Judah, Saudi Arabia. While this region is rarely busy, the majority of visitors come during the day, as mornings and early afternoons are comparably less crowded.
The mysterious Devils Thumb Saudi is truly one of the greatest wonders of Saudi Arabia. The beauty of the place with its adventures makes it one of the most interesting destinations. Tourists should visit Judah’s Thumb for the real magical experience of their lifetime.
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Judah Thumb FAQs
When is the best time to visit Judah Thumb?
The best time to visit the site is between the end of January, and the start of March, as the temperature is at its best.
Why is Judah Thumb called the Devil Thumb?
Stories suggest that a boy scout group named the structure Devil Thumb for its distinct look.
What is the easiest way to reach Judah Thumb?
The easiest way to reach Judah Thumb is by car.
How is the Judah Thumb weather?
There are mostly clear skies, but sometimes there are harsh winds and sandstorms.
Can one climb the Devil thumb?
No. There are no ways to climb to the top. But, one can climb the nearby rock formations.
