The Timna Valley (תִּמְנָע, Hebrew pronunciation: [timˈna]) is located in southern Israel in the southwestern Arava/Arabah, approximately 30 kilometres (19 mi) north of the Gulf of Aqaba and the city of Eilat. The area is rich in copper ore and has been mined since the 5th millennium BCE. There is controversy whether the mines were active during the biblical united Kingdom of Israel and its second ruler, King Solomon.A large section of the valley, containing ancient remnants of copper mining and ancient worship, is encompassed in a recreation park.
In July 2011, the Israeli government approved the construction of an international airport, the Ramon Airport, in the Timna Valley.