Ha’il Province (Arabic: حائل‎), located in the center north of Saudi Arabia, is a land where the dream landscapes of Arabia come alive, reminiscent of the tales from the 1001 Nights. From the grandiose white volcanoes of the Harrat Bani Rashid in the west to the vast expanses of dunes of the majestic Nefud Al-Kebir surrounding the legendary Jebel Aga, Ha’il Province offers a journey through both mythical Arabian landscapes and time.

The Heart of Ha’il: The City and Its People

The capital city, Ha’il, lies on the eastern side of the massive Jebel Aga and is predominantly populated by the Al-Shammary tribe. This tribe originates from this region of the Arabian Peninsula and can be found today as far as Syria and the Levant. Ha’il is renowned for the generosity of its people, a trait epitomized by Hatim al-Tai, a famous Arab poet and a character from the 1001 Nights. His legendary generosity has made him an enduring icon in Arab culture, encapsulated in the phrase “more generous than Hatem.”

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Ha’il Province is home to two of Saudi Arabia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites: Jubbah and Shuwaymis. These sites are celebrated for their ancient rock art, which provides a window into the lives of the region’s early inhabitants.

A Journey Through History

Ancient Times

The Arabian Peninsula has likely been inhabited for over a million years, thanks to its proximity to Eastern Africa, the cradle of humanity, and periods of humid climate that once supported lush vegetation. Early inhabitants left behind tools and rock art, with Ha’il Province being one of the richest areas for these ancient testimonies. The rock art, dating back around 10,000 years, depicts human figures and animals such as buffalos, ibexes, ostriches, lions, and camels, along with inscriptions in ancient alphabets. The sites of Jubbah and Ash-Shuwamis were recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2015 for their outstanding cultural significance.

Caravan Trade and Strategic Crossroads

From the 1st millennium BC, Ha’il became a crucial crossroads for caravan trade due to its strategic location. It lay on both an east-west route between the Arabian Gulf and the Red Sea and a north-south route between the ancient empires of Mesopotamia and Yemen. Caravans likely traversed the Nefud-al-Kebir desert, connecting Ha’il with Dumat-al-Jandal.

Darb Zubaida

In the 12th century, Ha’il became a major stopover on the Darb Zubaida, the pilgrimage road built by the Queen of Baghdad.

Land of Early Explorers

From 1836 to 1921, Ha’il was the capital of the Kingdom of Ha’il, led by the Bani Rashid clan of the Shammar tribe. This emirate stretched from the current border with Iraq to Wadi Ad-Dawasir in central Saudi Arabia. During this period, many foreign travelers visited Ha’il and documented their experiences, including Georg August Wallin, William Gifford Palgrave, Charles Huber, Lady Anne Blunt, Charles Montagu Doughty, and Gertrude Bell.

In 1921, King Abdulaziz captured Ha’il, and by 1922, the entire province became part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Landscapes of Ha’il Province

Ha’il Province offers a stunning mix of landscapes. On one side, you have the typical sand dune desert of Nefud Al-Kebir, and on the other, the mountainous landscapes, notably the majestic Jebel Shammar, a granite massif located north of the city of Ha’il, where green wadis can be found.

The most breathtaking landscapes are where rock and sand mix together, such as in the area of Jibal Sunaynah, a group of sharp granite rocks surrounded by sand banks, located west of the city of Ha’il.

Along the southern border of the immense Nefud Al-Kebir, some sandstone formations showcase the limitless creativity of erosion on this more friable rock. The fancy shapes and natural arch of Jibal Hibran give travelers a glimpse of the stunning sights they can admire when exploring this area.

Sand banks lying on the mountains’ sides offer easy access to stunning viewpoints over both the massifs and the surrounding desert plains.

Places to Visit in Ha’il Province

  • Ha’il (City)

The capital of Ha’il Province, this city is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is home to the Al-Shammary tribe and is famous for the legendary generosity of Hatim al-Tai. Visitors can explore historical sites, traditional markets, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals. (Read More)

  • Nefud Al-Kebir

This vast desert is characterized by its impressive sand dunes, which create a stunning and ever-changing landscape. It is a perfect destination for desert adventures, including dune bashing, camel riding, and stargazing. (Read More)

  • Shuwaymis

Shuwaymis is renowned for its ancient rock art, which dates back thousands of years. The site features intricate carvings and inscriptions that provide a glimpse into the lives of early inhabitants of the region. It is one of the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Ha’il Province. (Read More)

  • Fayd

Fayd is an ancient town that was once a significant stopover on the Darb Zubaida pilgrimage route. It boasts historical ruins, including old fortresses and wells, offering a fascinating insight into the region’s past. (Read More)

  • White Volcanoes

Located in the Harrat Bani Rashid, these unique volcanic formations are a striking sight. The white color of the volcanoes contrasts beautifully with the surrounding desert landscape, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers. (Read More)

  • Ha’il Rally

An exciting event for motorsport fans, the Ha’il Rally is an annual off-road race that attracts participants from around the world. The rally covers challenging terrains, including sand dunes and rocky landscapes, showcasing the adventurous spirit of Ha’il Province. (Read More)