The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has recognized Rijal Almaa, in Saudi Arabia’s Asir region, as one of the best tourism villages in the world, at a ceremony during the organization's General Assembly in Madrid, Spain. Rijal Almaa was selected from among 175 nominations from 75 countries. The village, which is 45 kilometres west of Abha, in the mountainous Asir region is a unique example of Saudi Arabia's diverse heritage and culture. The village consists of 60 multi-story palaces built of natural stone clay and wood. The village stands at the heart of ancient trade networks linking Yemen, the Levant, Mecca, and Medina.