The Saudi Ministry of Tourism has announced that nearly 1.1 million tourists visited the Hail Region during the first half of 2024. This total includes around 170,000 international travelers and more than 907,000 domestic visitors. Additionally, the ministry’s report on the tourism sector in the Hail Region indicates that there are now approximately 2,600 licensed rooms in hospitality facilities throughout the area.
New archaeological discoveries
In November 2024, the Heritage Commission disclosed that it has registered 198 new archaeological sites in the National Antiquities Register, bringing the cumulative total to 9,317 sites. These newly registered locations showcase the rich diversity and inclusiveness of Saudi Arabia’s heritage. The commission is dedicated to preserving the nation’s cultural legacy and enhancing public awareness about the importance of the Kingdom’s archaeological sites.
Distribution of registered sites
The newly registered sites are spread across multiple regions, with the Riyadh Region contributing eight sites, Jazan adding five, and Aseer, Najran, and the Northern Borders each including two. The Eastern Region added one site to the total. The Heritage Commission emphasized that these registrations are part of a broader initiative to document and revitalize Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage, thereby providing researchers and enthusiasts with valuable information on heritage locations and archaeological sites in the Kingdom.
The commission aims to foster archaeological studies and highlight the historical significance of these discoveries, ultimately enhancing the global recognition of Saudi heritage. The Hail Region leads with 50 registered sites, followed by Makkah with 39, Qassim with 34, Al-Jouf with 28, Madinah with 14, and Tabuk with 13. It also acknowledges the crucial role of local communities in discovering these sites, underscoring that their engagement is vital for protecting cultural heritage and promoting awareness among future generations regarding the importance of these locations.
Economic development and tourism potential
Saudi Arabia is actively advancing the development of the northwestern Hail Region, which is noted for its agriculture, mountain trails, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Moreover, with a population of approximately 746,000 and an economy generating around SAR28 billion ($7.5 billion) annually, Hail is poised to become a significant destination for tourism and investment in the years ahead.Â
Omar Abduljabbar, CEO of the Hail Region Development Authority (HRDA), indicated in an interview with MEED that the tourism and manufacturing sectors play a crucial role in Hail’s economy, contributing 60 percent of its GDP. He noted that the region has experienced significant growth in tourism, surpassing national averages, and there are plans to further enhance this growth through cultural, adventure, and nature tourism projects.Â
The region is home to historical sites that date back thousands of years, such as Umm Sinman Mountain and Faid Historical City, which attract visitors from around the world. Furthermore, with its favorable climate and fertile land, Hail is seen as an important agricultural hub, and initiatives are currently being pursued to maximize its potential through strategic partnerships and investments in food processing.
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