Hail

Located in northwestern Saudi Arabia and on one of the main pilgrimage routes from Iraq to Mecca, Hail was once the undisputed capital of all desert Arabia until the unification of the country. Today Hail is primarily a regional agricultural producer and oasis, providing most of the country’s wheat and many dairy products. A destination with much history, Hail was the homeland of the Rashid royal family, historical rivals to the Saudi royal family, as well as Hatim al-Tai, a famous Arabian poet who lived before Muhammad’s preaching of Islam. Visitors can explore highlights such as Barzan Palace, Barzan souk, and Qishlash Fortress. The city also hosts international events including the Desert Festival celebrating the area’s culture and the Hail International Rally. Another draw to Hail is the nearby town of Jubbah,  known for its large sandstone outcrops with ancient petroglyphs which have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Experiences

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Jubbah

This city lies northwest of Hail along the old caravan road between Najd and the Mediterranean sea. Completely surrounded by the Nafud desert, Jubbah’s oasis defies the odds and provides plentiful water for the city and its abundant agriculture, drawn from an ancient underground lake. The main attraction to this city is its large sandstone outcrops with ancient petroglyphs and inscriptions on the rock face which have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Barzan Palace

The construction of this historical palace began in 1808 and once completed it covered an area of more than 300,000 square meters with grand reception halls, gardens, and rooms for the royal family and diplomatic guests. However the palace was ordered to be destroyed in 1921 after the last Al-Rashid emir was ousted and today only one tower of the original palace remains.

A’arif Fort

This mud and clay rectangular-shaped castle is the oldest historical building in Hail, constructed in the 17th century in the heart of Hail. It is strategically perched on a hilltop, visible from all parts of the city. Visitors can tour this fortress and access its watchtowers, residential area, baths, mosque, and warehouses. The castle also grants a wonderful view of the city and surrounding farms and countryland below.

Al-Rajhi Mosque

An architectural landmark of Hail, this large Islamic center has three floors and an underground basement which encompasses prayer halls, retreat rooms, a library, funeral preparation room, and digital services rooms offering simultaneous casting of the sermon and the latest in acoustics technology.

Qishlah Palace

Built in the 1940s for the prince of Hail, Qishlash Palace features two floors with eight watch towers and two main gates. It was built to host troops that were protecting this northern part of the country, though it was then used as a prison before finally being repurposed as a historical building.

Hail Heritage Museum

Telling the history of Hail is the local Heritage Museum which showcases a large number of historic-ethnographic antiques and artifacts set inside a traditional Najd house. The collection is privately owned by a local patron and there is a store where visitors may purchase select heritage pieces.

Al Nafud Desert

These sweeping red sand dunes sit just past Hail to the north and is a popular destination for overnight camping trips. Though beautiful, the terrain is rugged and precautions should be taken. Rain only comes once or twice a year here and the desert is prone to sudden gusts of wind.

Saudi Arabia Regions

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Hail Itineraries

Cross Country Saudi Arabia: Riyadh to Abha

Explore beyond the typical highlights of Saudi Arabia on this 13-day trip that takes you from from coast to coast and the lush oases, desert plains, and dramatic mountains and cliffs in between. See the Kingdom’s historical palaces and mosques, stroll the warrens of preserved Old Towns, picnic at scenic hidden gems, go snorkeling in the Red Sea, hike to the Edge of the World, and much more. 

Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
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Millennium Hotel Hail

Millennium Hotel Hail

Hail, Saudi Arabia

The premier luxury hotel in Hail, the Millennium Hotel offers guests a comfortable stay with outstanding service in the heart of the city, just steps away from a plethora of restaurants, shopping malls, and entertainment. The 191 smartly-dressed rooms and suites are equipped with modern amenities, a walk-in wardrobe, spacious bathroom, and large windows with views of either the garden or city. The all-day restaurant, Al Fairouz restaurant, caters to all guests with a wide range of regional and international dishes on rotation. Other services and facilities include male and female health clubs, tennis court, pool, spa, business center, and 24-hour concierge desk. The resort is a 25-minute drive from the airport.

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