Harrat al Birk, Volcanic field near Al Birk, Saudi Arabia.

Harrat al Birk is a volcanic field along the Red Sea coast featuring dark lava flows and numerous fissure vents scattered across the terrain. The black rocky surface extends broadly across the area, creating a barren and jagged landscape with minimal plant growth.

The lava field is named after the Kinana and Banu Hilal tribes, who settled it in succession: Kinana from the pre-Islamic era until the 4th century AH, then Banu Hilal. It is also known as Harrat Kinana or Harrat Bani Hilal, and lies beside Al Birk on the Red Sea coast.

The lava field is also called Harrat Kinana or Harrat Bani Hilal, after the tribes that settled it: Kinana from the pre-Islamic era until the 4th century AH, then Bani Hilal. The name recalls this succession of inhabitants rather than any volcanic event.

Reaching this place requires a sturdy vehicle and guidance from someone familiar with the terrain, as marked paths and visitor facilities are absent. The black surface becomes extremely hot, and shade or water sources are scarce nearby.

The lava field carries two older names, Harrat Kinana and Harrat Bani Hilal, after the tribes that settled it: Kinana from the pre-Islamic era until the 4th century AH, then Bani Hilal. The smooth pale ground near the coast, visible in satellite views, marks where sand interrupts the dark basalt.