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Nestled between Mount Shammer to the north and Mount Salma to the south, the city of Hail was once the capital of all the Arabian Desert and home to legends like Hatim Al Tai, the Arabian poet whose altruism earned him spots in stories like “One Thousand and One Nights” (also known as “Arabian Nights”).
Today it’s the capital of the north-central region of Saudi Arabia bearing the same name and a popular stop during the pilgrimage to Makkah. The city of Hail is also known for hosting international events, including a Desert Festival celebrating the area’s culture and the Hail International Rally, where rally cars, quads and motorcycles race through the Nafud Desert and through Hail, Baqaa, Al Ghazalah and the village of Umm Al Qulban.
Saudi, the future
Upcomming Saudi wonders
Discover upcoming Saudi experiences
The Red Sea is the world's most ambitious luxury tourism development. It has become an exquisite sanctuary offering luxurious experiences perfectly tailored to the unique needs of each visitor. AMAALA, in turn, is a luxury tourism destination spanning three sites, and it has established itself as a place of self-transformation, inspired by the arts, wellness, and the purity of the Red Sea.
Qiddiya, on the other hand, is emerging as the capital of entertainment, sports, and the arts in Saudi Arabia. It is being developed around five pillars: parks and attractions, sports and wellness, motion and mobility, art and culture, and nature and environment. Additionally, NEOM is being developed as the world’s most ambitious sustainable and futuristic ecosystem to live and work, with a size 33 times that of New York. Qiddiya has already begun receiving visitors, and NEOM is expected to be fully operational by 2030.
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What to see at Hail
Our recommendations to plan the perfect holiday
Explore Al Nafud Desert
Sitting on the edge of Al Nafud Desert, no trip to Hail would be complete without a visit to these majestic red sands. The Hail region is home to rock art now classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover traces of what life was like more than 10,000 years ago through the inscriptions and petroglyphs just outside of Hail in Jubbah at Jabal Umm Sinman and Shuwaymis at JabalAl Manjor.
Castle Hop
If you see three castles, you’ve made it to the center of the city. A’arif Fort, Barzan Castle and Al Qishlah Castle are each worth stopping by, but if you have to pick only one, look up. Perched atop a peak, A’arif Fort is the oldest of the three and offers the best viewpoint over the city. A’arif has also been used as the meeting place to view the Ramadan moon and fire the iftar cannon to signal an end to the day’s fasting.
Souq and Market Shopping
Also directly in the center of town, the Hail Souq sells fruits, vegetables and the kingdom’s favorite – dates - as well as handmade crafts such as clay pots and woven mats. For those seeking souvenirs, this traditional souq should be on your itinerary. Alternatively, head east of the city’s center to search for hidden treasures at the Hail Flea Market—one of the kingdom’s last proper flea markets.
Further information
Saudi culture
Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage and traditions have been shaped by its position as a historic trade hub and the birthplace of Islam. In recent years, the Kingdom has undergone a significant cultural transformation, adapting centuries-old customs to fit the contemporary world. For example, while modest dress is still encouraged for both men and women — tourists are advised to avoid tightfitting clothing, and women must cover their shoulders and knees — female visitors no longer need to wear an abaya and hijab (robe and head covering). Unmarried guests to the country may now stay together in hotels, and female tourists (as well as locals) may also drive.
The official language
Arabic is the official language of Saudi Arabia and the first language of all native Saudi people. It is the primary language used in all public transactions and is a language spoken by Muslims all over the world. However, English, which is a compulsory second language in schools, is widely spoken in the Kingdom. And most road signs are bilingual, showing information in both Arabic and English.
Time zone
The standard time zone of Saudi is Arabia Standard Time (AST). The time zone is 3 hours ahead of GMT (GMT3+) with no daylight savings.
Getting to Saudi
With 13 international airports, served by global carriers, getting to and around the Kingdom couldn’t be easier.
1. King Khalid International Airport (RUH) – Riyadh
2. King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) – Jeddah
3. King Fahd International Airport (DMM) – Dammam
4. Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) – Medina
5. Taif International Airport (TIF) – Taif
6. Abha International Airport (AHB) – Abha
7. Hail International Airport (HAS) – Hail
8. King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (GIZ) – Gazan
9. Prince Nayef bin Abdulaziz International Airport (ELQ) – Qassim
10. Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (TUU) – Tabuk
11. Prince Abdulmohsin Bin Abdulaziz International Airport (YNB) –Yanbu
12. Al Jouf International Airport (AJF) – Jouf
13. Al Ahsa International Airport (HOF) – Al Ahsa
Saudi Arabia also operates 15 domestic airports, for short hops between regions. For further information, visit the General Authority for Civil Aviation.
Getting around Saudi
A first-rate transportation system connects Saudi Arabia’s provinces and cities, some of the modes of transport include car rentals, taxis, ride-hailing apps, trains and buses.
Weather in Saudi
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not always hot in Saudi Arabia. The kingdom experiences four distinct seasons —from chilly winter breezes in January to peak desert heat in August —and a climate that varies between regions. Read on for a seasonal overview of the kingdom’s weather.
Spring in Saudi Mid-March to Mid-June
Spring in Saudi Arabia can be brisk, particularly in the north, where the temperature at night can drop below 15 degrees C. The central and southern regions are warmer, averaging around 20 degrees after nightfall. Rainfall is at its highest during spring, particularly in the central region and in the southwest over the Asir Mountains.
Summer in Saudi Mid-June to Mid-September
With the exception of the comparatively mild highlands in the southwest, summer signals the start of rising temperatures across most of the country, with the average hovering around 45 degrees C. The early mornings and long evenings are more temperate, so take advantage of the warm seas to explore Saudi’s world-class scuba diving sites, or try sailing and snorkeling.
Autumn in Saudi Mid-September to Mid-December
Autumn brings gentler weather and cool breezes in both Saudi Arabia’s northern regions and the southwestern highlands. While daytime temperatures remain warm and can reach the 30s in early fall, evenings are milder and fit for outdoor strolling, especially along Jeddah’s waterfront, indulging in alfresco dining or visiting Al Ahsa’s cool desert springs.
Winter in Saudi Mid-December to Mid-March
Take advantage of Saudi Arabia’s beautiful winter weather to explore the kingdom. The balmy days and cool nights are ideal for camping, rock climbing or exploring Saudi Arabia’s verdant highlands and bustling cities, from Riyadh to Jeddah. Average winter temperatures are in the teens, but visitors might be lucky enough to see snowfall in the mountains of the northern regions blanketing the slopes and desert sands.
Other important Q&A
The customs and laws
Cultural heritage and religion inform the public etiquette that’s expected and practiced in Saudi Arabia. If you’re not familiar with Saudi Arabia’s laws and customs, don’t worry: Behind these conventions are values that people across many cultures are accustomed to, including respect for others, decorum in public and protection of privacy. Before your trip, learn more about how to act and dress in Saudi Arabia, as well as the role of religion and rules about alcohol and other substances.
Saudi dress code
In public, both men and women are asked to dress modestly, avoiding tight-fitting clothes and items with profane language or images. Women should cover their shoulders and knees in public. (Consider packing blouses with sleeves, scarves or shawls for your shoulders and mid- to maxi-length skirts and dresses, capris or pants to cover your knees.)
Public decency laws
Public displays of affection are not consistent with the local culture. Visitors should also avoid using profane language or gestures.
Saudi currency and payments
Currency exchange and transactions are easy in Saudi Arabia. And even if you don’t yet know the difference between a riyal and a halala, there’s no need to worry: Many businesses in the kingdom accept credit cards and contactless payments. Use this guide to learn the ins and outs of Saudi currency and exchange rates so you can get back to scuba diving, sightseeing and shopping instead.
Respecting Saudi religion
During prayer time in Saudi Arabia, five times a day, music is turned off in public places and many shops close briefly. For one month a year, during Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. If you visit during Ramadan, the most sacred month of the year in Islam, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day out of respect. Learn more about how to participate in Ramadan, whether you’re visiting Jeddah or Riyadh.
Illegal substances and alcohol
The sale, purchase and consumption of alcohol are illegal in Saudi Arabia. It is also illegal to bring alcohol or drugs into the country, so plan to unwind with coffee or tea at one of the country›s many cafés instead.
What is the Saudi exchange rate?
The U.S. dollar is equivalent to SAR3.75 (fixed rate). All banks in the kingdom offer currency exchange services. You can also find exchange bureaus at airports, some shopping centers and other locations throughout the country. Banking hours are generally from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday to Thursday. (Exchange bureaus are often open later, although they may charge higher commission fees.) Banks are usually open at international airports and currency transactions are at a lower rate than specialist currency exchanges. ATMs are widely available for the withdrawal of funds using the Visa and Mastercard networks, and credit cards including Visa, Mastercard and American Express are accepted throughout the kingdom. Many businesses also accept digital payment methods, such as Apple Pay.
Contacts
Important contacts to keep on hand in the event of an emergency. There are individual emergency numbers and services in Saudi to connect you with the relevant local authorities. General emergency - 112
Police services
There are two emergency numbers for police assistance in Saudi. There is also an app that allows citizens and residents to file security and traffic reports for humanitarian assistance outside the urban area. Police assistance – 911 / 999 / Kollona Amn
Fire Services
The General Directorate of Civil Defense is responsible for dealing with fire emergencies in Saudi. Fire emergency response – 998
Ambulance Services
Public ambulance services – 997
Flying Ambulance – 123
Saudi Red Crescent Authority ASAFNY
Road and Traffic Emergency Services
Traffic accidents – 993
Roadside Assistance (RSA) – 920003922 / Morni
Najm (non-emergency traffic accident team) – 920000560
Tourism Services
Tourism Call Center - 930
Tourism International Call Center - 920000890
COVID - 19
COVID19- hotline - 937
Whatsapp assistance: 920005937 / mawidapp